Meet Danielle O’Kane | Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle O’Kane and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danielle, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I found that working for a big brand I wasn’t satisfied by the services or products that were being offered and wanted to do more, give more and make makeup fun again, make it more personal. I wanted to give clients an unbeatable, memorable experience that was driven by them and their needs. I have a skill that I can travel with and so I thought why don’t I create a unit that is mobile and go anywhere; alas, The Blush Bus was born. The Blush Bus is a traveling makeup salon with a team of artists on board to help make all your makeup dreams come true. It is centered around the community as I wanted to utilize the Blush Bus as an empowerment tool to help young, ambitious entrepreneurs get up and going by teaching them and giving them the tools and knowledge that can help them work towards their success. I also wanted to offer makeup to everyone and offer lessons to help instill confidence and joy in everyday makeup application. The Blush Bus also offers an event space for Birthday parties, Ladies days, bachelorette parties and so much more. The ultimate goal is to spread as much joy and kindness around as possible.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Makeup has been my form of expression for the past 10 years. I grew up with my Mother who is an incredibly talented artist and uses painting and drawing to express her creativity. I always felt that I would never reach her level of creativity up until I found my love in Makeup. I stumbled across makeup while I was studying Theatre and had taken a Makeup for TV/Stage class where my potential was unleashed. I specialize in theatrical and SFX Makeup, but find beauty in all forms of application. From the blending, to the techniques, textures and colors; I was hooked and inlove. I worked for MAC for most of my makeup career and was lucky enough to be a Senior Member on their events team where I got to work on some amazing events such as Fashion Week, Editorial Shoots, Art Installations, and so much more. When I took the risk and started working for myself my success continued to grow and I got to travel all over Africa to work on some amazing events. I am completely passionate about what I do and love working with people. You have to TRUST yourself, trust that you have the skill and talent, trust the process, trust that if it’s meant to be it will be. Don’t live in comparison, comparison is the greatest thief of joy.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh my gosh, I love this! I am so obsessed with Dallas, there’s so much to do and see. I would start with brunch at Dahlia’s on Ross for their epic Waffle board and mimosas, then onto the Sweet Tooth Hotel for their incredible installations that are out of this world. The Reunion Tower is a must see for those sweet views of Dallas! Trinity Grove also allows for some incredible photo opportunities and there is such a variety of places to eat (Avo Eatery being one of my favs). Eataly is pretty sweet and based in North Park for some shopping with beautiful floral arrangements and Art pieces to elevate your shopping experience. The Truck Yard in the Colony is so much fun and The Dallas Farmers market is 100% a top pick of mine. My favorite restaurant in the whole World is Paradiso based in Bishop Arts which is also such an incredible area with tons of stuff to do and see. Legacy Hall is always a great time and based in such an incredible area with tons of stuff to do as well. Sixty Vines in Crescent court is beautiful and falls within walking distance of Clover Club for some rooftop cocktails and awesome views of Dallas. Another Round was also awesome with a obstacle putt putt course. I have been here just over a year and am still discovering such incredible spots all over Dallas.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My Parents have been my ultimate pillar of strength and support. They have always encouraged me to dream big and to chase my dreams with full force. They have been there for every bump in the road, lifting me up and dusting me off. My Boyfriend, Donovan, has helped me to stay focused and reminds me everyday to stay facing the sun. I am truly lucky in that I have a wonderful support structure all around the world, my entire family has supported and encouraged me the whole way and have been the Worlds Best Cheerleaders. My friends have all been incredible as well by spreading the word and helping me advertise my services as much as possible. I am beyond filled with Gratitude for each person in my life.

Website: https://quest40.wixsite.com/theblushbus?fbclid=IwAR2s2Ereob0UovVkwF_tEncWE6jq_gzHWkmUslbsbsle8CjfbowU8vv-534

Instagram: @blush_bus

Facebook: The Blush Bus

Image Credits
Vladimir Meyman Steve Castings