When artists discover their love for face painting, it doesn’t always happen on purpose, but happy accidents are just as exciting – if not more so! That is exactly the case for this month’s studio showcase winner, Andrea, founder of Andrea’s Face Painting. Her happy accident began just 11 years ago.
“I was a truck driver and equipment operator in California. We had annual open houses to show what our agency does for the public. I am always known as the crafty one, so they asked me if I could do face painting for the kids. I agreed and my booth was the most popular all day.”
After that event, she was asked to do more gigs. One of the first is when she was asked to paint at a co-worker’s daughter’s birthday party. There, many others asked about business cards and continued to request her for gigs.
“I went home that night and decided that this would be a great weekend business.”
Shortly after making the decision to turn face painting into a side business, she spent many hours watching YouTube video videos, joining Facebook groups, and watching professional face painters while perfecting her craft. It was soon after this that her full-time business, Andrea’s Face painting, came into full effect!
“I started by watching endless videos on YouTube, and joining face painting help groups on Facebook. I began buying products, created a Facebook business page and finally put myself out there.”
“I got my first job in 2014 and boy was I nervous. Everything went well and Andrea's Face Painting was born. I started advertising more. I started attending conventions and local jams where a whole new world of face painting opened up. Fast forward to 2018 where I ended my truck driving career and started face painting full time.”
In 2021, Andrea moved to New Mexico. When she moved, she nearly had to start all over again – as no one knew about her or her business. However, she bounced back rather quickly.
“I already had the tools and know-how of starting a business so it wasn't as hard as I thought. I was able to collaborate with artists in my area as well.”
From beginning her full-time business in 2018 to now, Andrea has loved being a business owner. She has had countless wonderful experiences that she will carry with her for a long time.
“2024 was my best year in business to date! I love interacting with the kids and making face painting an experience to remember. The vendor community is awesome here! Everyone supports each other's business weekends they can. I have made so many friends and gotten so many opportunities. I love dressing up in costume. I even dabble as a part time elf with Santa Clause!”
“I can't say enough about how much I enjoy what I do and how happy it makes me to see the kids smile.”
“If I could offer advice, it would probably be to not be afraid to share your work, we all start somewhere. The more you share, the more you learn. Or to network with other artists around the globe. We all do things different and it's great to get ideas from people all over, whether it be for techniques, set up or products. Our community is family!”
Andrea’s story is truly inspiring. It is a testament to the power of stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing new experiences. You never know where an unexpected journey may lead – you might just discover your true calling, just as she did! Try something different and explore new avenues. Who knows? You may find yourself on an incredible path you never imagined.
If you would like to be our next Artist Highlight winner and have the chance to receive a $50 in-store credit at Craft-n-Go, send us your story with a few fun photos to contact@craftngo.com.