Vendor Spotlight: Ashley Reed for Mary Kay

There's no denying that every woman wants to look good...and it's a proven fact that when you look good, you feel good!  As an independent beauty consultant for Mary Kay, Ashley Reed is dedicated to making her clients look and feel their best.  She brings 8 years of experience to the table and has been trained by some of the top professionals in the industry.  She is dedicated to her craft, as evidenced by her ongoing training and continuous study of makeup trends.  Not only that, the woman is as stylish as they come!  She brings to mind the image of the quintessential "Southern Belle", with her unmistakable accent and flair for fashion.  Upon meeting her, you'll feel instantly comfortable and get the sense that you are in the hands of a skilled professional that knows what it takes to bring out the best YOU possible.

Read on for my interview with the diva of beauty, Ashley Reed, and learn how she makes the world a more beautiful place one face at a time.

Name: Ashley Reed

    Location:  Los Angeles

           Company Name: Mary Kay

            Years in Business: 2.5 years

                                       Website: www.marykay.com/dynamicdynasty

                                        Blog: www.dynamicpinkdynasty.blogspot.com 

How did you get involved in the make-up/skincare industry? I began my career in 2002 teaching skin care and color cosmetics with Mary Kay. I took a break from the business while I was enrolled at Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (Los Angeles). After graduation, I re-launched my business with a renewed passion to enrich women’s lives by teaching skin care and advanced color application. I have always loved make up and helping women feel their best about having healthy beautiful skin. I believe that when a person feels better about how he or she looks on the outside it has a positive affect on how he or she feels about him or herself on the inside. I branched into the wedding industry because I love helping to create a bride’s Cinderella experience.

Do you have any formal training? I have attended many seminars/workshops specializing in color application and skin care techniques. I have been trained by the industries top professionals such as Robert Jones (Professional Make Up Artist) and  Dr. Beth Lange (Chief  Scientific Officer at Mary Kay).

What did you do prior to this? I was a student at University of Louisville majoring in Sociology (Go CARDS!) I also finished the Apparel Manufacturing Management program at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Previously, I was a designer/stylist for elevee Custom Clothing – building custom wardrobes for NBA/NFL players and other celebrities.

How do you stay above the competition? I stay well educated by attending various seminars and workshops throughout the year. I study a wide range of products, the specific ingredients, and the proper use and application of these products. I study makeup trends, story boards, and application techniques. I take pride in interpreting these trends for effortless everyday beauty for today’s busy woman. 

What would you say is your biggest source of inspiration? I am inspired by my family. I am blessed to have beautiful people (both inner beauty and outer beauty) who push and encourage me to pursue my dreams and to always strive to do my best.

What are a few ways that couples can save when it comes to make-up on their wedding day? Have an idea of what you want your make up to look like (clip pictures from magazines). Shop around for the best price/services/packages to get the best bang for your buck. Consult with a professional on the look you’d like to achieve. Just like you fit your wedding dress, you want to have a “fitting” with your makeup artist to make sure that he or she can achieve the look that you want prior to your big day.

Besides making the world beautiful one face at a time, what else keeps you occupied? I am super involved with working with teenagers...the Teen Church (The Preparation) we started last September at First AME Church. I am also involved in the Young Adult Ministry (The Journey). Follow us on Twitter FAME_journey. We ustream live every Thursday night at 7:00 pm (search FAME YAM). Of course, I LOVE spending time with my family and friends!

What’s the most valuable advice you would give to a couple in regards to choosing a make-up artist for their big day? 1 – Shop around for the best price/package/services. 2 – Have an idea in mind (supported by pictures) when meeting your potential artist. 3 – Make sure to have a “fitting” prior to your big day to reduce last minute surprises.

If you were not in the make-up/skincare business, what would you be doing instead? Ummmmmm…(blank stare), I guess if I had to choose I would be in fashion creating my own line and non-profit organization. There’s still plenty of time for that dream!

Is there anything else you would like to share? Contact me at 213-361-4609 or dynamicdynasty_diva@yahoo.com to set up Ultimate Beauty Experience featuring Mary Kay products for you and your entire wedding party! FREE skin care and color consultation for your entire wedding party!