Today we’d like to introduce you to Jena Huynh Ellis.
Hi Jena, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, I knew I had a passion for styling hair, and makeup was something I picked up along the way. It started off in middle school when I became interested in the different curling irons. To satisfy this curiosity, I purchased a curling iron from Target and started styling my hair every day for school. My interest grew further when my mom bought me a proper curling wand that I learned to use on myself and others. Soon after, I found myself as the go-to gal for styling my friends’ hair for their dance recitals, homecoming dances, violin recitals, first dates, and other special events. My interest quickly turned into a hobby, and I learned I can be creative and free in this space. As I reached my adult years, my interest and passion for styling hair was always in the back of my mind. However, I did not initially pursue this career path, because as the eldest daughter of immigrant parents, I spent my early 20s focusing on my education and corporate career growth to support my family and honor my parents’ sacrifices. It wasn’t until the pandemic in 2020 that I had an epiphany and took a leap of faith. I created a business Instagram, @stylingwithjena, and began to build my profile to attract clientele.
In 2022, to my surprise, I had the opportunity to serve my clients in 90 events, including weddings, wedding gown designer photoshoots, cosmetic brand shoots, and more. I am truly so thankful for the love and support I received from family, friends, vendors, established hair and makeup teams, and referrals last year.
2022 was the busiest year not only for my business in hair and makeup but for my personal life as well. I was a bride myself – I planned my own wedding, worked full-time on the weekdays as a senior Business Process Analyst, and worked weddings and other special events on weekends, taking on two, sometimes three, events in a single day. On top of that, I traveled between New Zealand and the US and managed a long-distance relationship with my now husband.
As I look back on my growth, I’ve learned so much as an artist and built several strong relationships in the bridal hair and makeup industry. I am so excited to see what else is in store for me in the future. As I step into 2023, I am more determined than ever, and I can’t wait to meet all my future brides, collaborators, and all the fun things to come!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not! For those who are starting off in this industry know it is not easy. Initially, the biggest struggle was creating content, building a client base, and gaining the trust of other artists in the industry. There are days where doubt and uncertainty show up, but above all else, I know I have an amazing support system by my side that believes in me. I have been so fortunate to work with several great artists, photographers, and businesses, which lead me to all my great clients! I can gratefully say that while I love seeing my clients overjoyed with the outcome of their makeup and hair, I’ve also developed amazing friendships and connections with my clients. I’m beyond thankful for those who trusted me early in my career.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Styling with Jena?
I’m a hair and makeup artist in SoCal (San Diego, CA), and I am currently expanding my services to Napier, New Zealand. I specialize in airbrush makeup, using Temptu, for bridal glam and other special events. My services include weddings, corporate collaborations, styled shoots, birthday glam, branding shoots, commercial, e-commerce, maternity, family, business, and any services that require hair and makeup! My style of art for hair is the timeless and romantic look, with some texture twists and/or a braid. Makeup services include either a traditional or airbrush makeup, with complimentary lashes, and high-end professional makeup products to ensure a long-lasting, flawless finish. Some makeup products include NARS, Makeup Forever Foundation, Too Faced Cosmetics, Huda Beauty, Hourglass Cosmetics, MAC Cosmetics, and more. This allows you to stay looking your absolute best all day long!
What sets me apart from others is that I am reliable and flexible – I work with every client, vendor, or business at a moment’s notice and ensure your day of service runs smoothly. As a perfectionist, I ensure every level of detail is considered at every step of the styling process. My intention is to create an unforgettable experience for you and to ensure you feel and look your best on your special day.
I’m most proud of the brand I am building – a high-end, luxurious makeup and hair kit for all my clients to bring to life all of your hair and makeup goals. When booking a service with me, you’ll have unlimited phone and/or email communication from the day you book, leading up to your wedding day or special event. I’ll work on carefully curating your timeline to ensure your day runs as smoothly as possible. Each service will always receive a hair and/or makeup touch-up once all services have been completed.
To inquire, please fill out an inquiry form on my website https://stylingwithjena.square.site/contact, that details travel location, date of service, time of service, number of services, and etc. After the form is submitted, I’ll reach out to see if the date you’ve inquired is available, and if so, a signed contract and a deposit is required to secure your date.
What’s next?
My plan is to expand my services to New Zealand! My husband and I are between the two countries, and we have opposite seasons. Winters in San Diego are usually slower than the summer months, and New Zealand’s summer months start December-April, which gives me an opportunity to be booked summer year-round!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stylingwithjena.square.site/
- Instagram: @stylingwithjena
Image Credits
aglow.medialab
nikkigotspirit
