We had the good fortune of connecting with Lakeisha Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lakeisha, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a creative career because it makes me the happiest and through that I found my passion! In high school I thought I wanted to go into a medical career only because it’s an essential business and it would have been “safe,’ but thankfully I didn’t get into any of the universities I randomly applied for. This made me realize I should go to school for fashion, it was risky, but it was the only thing I could actually see myself doing. The high school Fashion club I was in took a field trip to the college I eventually received my B.A. in Merchandise Marketing and Management from, Wade College. Then I started my business LLJ Artistry as a mobile Makeup Artist. Life is short so I firmly believe in doing what makes you happy over playing it safe.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Makeup has been dear to my heart for over a decade. It started with me doing my own makeup at age 16, then since age 20 I’ve been freelancing for M.A.C Cosmetics which has taught me a lot about makeup, professionalism and techniques. I have overcome many obstacles by not letting fear stand in my way. My biggest lesson is JUST START! Things will never be perfect and there will always be an excuse to procrastinate but you must step out on Faith. I started LLJ Artistry as a Mobile Makeup Artist. I do not discriminate, and I strive to make sure every client is satisfied. I bring a makeup salon to the comfort of your home and even offer personal 1 on 1 tutorials to teach you how to do your own makeup! My brand is still growing and though it hasn’t been an easy road, it has been very rewarding!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
To eat we would go to Gloria’s Latin Cuisine, Pappadeux, Yardhouse and Stirr. The Dallas Zoo and the Dallas Museum of Art for daytime sightseeing. Then out to Deep Ellum one night for fun, art and music!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I firmly believe that it takes a village! God has kept me encouraged and given me a vision in purpose! I want to thank all my parents for instilling excellence in me; they have invested in my makeup career and my bonus mom is one of my biggest clients. My friends allowed me to do their makeup and post the pictures to my social media. My college professors have given me a lot of connections. People on social media giving support has also kept me going!! The list goes on but overall I have had a lot of assistance to get to where I am today!

Website: https://lljartistry.com/

Instagram: lljartistry

Linkedin: LLJ Artistry

Facebook: LLJ Artistry

Youtube: LLJ Artistry

Other: Tik Tok: lljartistry

Image Credits
Images of me shot by Ebony Rodriguez

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