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Makeup is the final touch that can enhance one’s beauty and boost confidence. Dezaray Hood’s journey into makeup artistry began during the Covid-19 pandemic when she decided to leave her job and focus on building her bridal design business. To supplement her income and her growing brand, she turned to makeup, a skill she dabbled in during college, but never truly pursued. Originally from Ohio, Dezaray relocated to Atlanta in September 2024 and has faced the challenge of building a larger clientele in a new city. Now, part of the Mimbbo platform, she hopes to expand her reach and connect with more clients as the platform continues to grow. 

A self-taught makeup artist, Dezaray attended Alabama A&M University, where she was a member of the dance team. In such a fast- paced environment, dancers often had to learn the basics of makeup application, as there wasn’t always time for a professional to assist everyone. This experience ignited her interest in makeup, and overtime, she continued to refine her skills.

One of Dezaray’s most memorable experiences was teaching a makeup class for a minority on- campus organization during Black History Month. The class, titled BOMB (Balling on My Budget and Black- Owned Makeup Brands), focused on teaching students how to achieve stunning looks using affordable products while also supporting Black- owned beauty brands. Inspired by the impact of that session, she hopes to expand and introduce BOMB to other colleges and universities, empowering more students with makeup and budget- friendly beauty tips.

While Dezaray considers herself an all- around creative in the makeup industry, she finds that most of her clients book her for her natural or soft glam looks. However, wants to begin to shift her focus to truly focus on bridal makeup, aligning with her passion for the wedding industry. 

Dezaray typically navigates high- pressure situations such as photoshoots and weddings by remaining confident in her skills and maintaining a calm demeanor. She recalls a time when she was doing a bride’s makeup for the first time and due to her own nerves and fear of making a mistake, she unintentionally made the bride anxious as well. That experience taught her the importance of composure, and since then, she mastered the art of staying poised under pressure, ensuring both she and her clients feel at ease!

Dezaray emphasizes the importance of Black women loving and appreciating their natural features. Because of this, she isn’t a fan of overly contoured nose looks that alter one’s appearance. She believes the best makeup enhances what’s already there rather than completely transforming it. When it comes to birthday makeup, she feels you can still achieve a glamorous look without overdoing it. For example, if you opt for rhinestones, there’s no need to pair them with glitter eyeshadow as well, it’s all about balance. As for her own personal makeup style, it depends on her mood. However, she tends to go for either a full- face beat or no makeup at all, there’s rarely ever an in- between. 

For Dezaray, the key to building a successful business lies in consistency, a relentless drive to grow in your craft, and the determination to keep pushing forward. She believes that success doesn’t happen overnight and giving up too soon can mean missing out on the rewards of hard work. Moving to a new state last September and establishing a steady clientele hasn’t been easy, but Dezaray continues to push through, proving that persistence pays off. She is always looking for models to collaborate with and showcase her artistry, and those interested in booking her can connect via Instagram @_lsbmakeup or find her on Mimbbo.

As Dezaray’s journey continues to unfold, her dedication to her craft and commitment to growth, serve as an inspiration to aspiring makeup artists. Through perseverance and passion, she is carving out her space in the beauty industry. 

 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dezaray Hood