Today we’d like to introduce you to Dory Lathrop.
Dory, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have worked in the makeup and skincare industry for over 35 years. My journey started in college while working at Robinson’s Department Store at UTC while a Communications major at SDSU. For the past 16 years, I have been a makeup artist and manager for MAC Cosmetics, as well as a freelance artist on location. I am passionate about making my clients feel their best for the special events in their lives and I love to teach them how to build a basic makeup and tool wardrobe so that they can feel successful doing their own makeup every day.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There are always challenges, but a basic love of people and sharing in their journey, has always been at the forefront of what I do. A real artist will take what the client likes, and show them the best way to wear it. We are artists, so we are visual people. Encourage your clients to show you images, but give them a realistic expectation based on the difference in age, eye shape, skin color, etc. We all know that when someone tells us “I want a smokey eye”, that can mean many different things. The communication piece is a huge part of what I do, and it saves a lot of time and heartache. An artist can never think that they know everything about their craft. I have never stopped learning techniques from other makeup professionals, whether they are new in the industry or have been around for a long time.
Everyone has experiences and something to share. My experience comes from the thousands of faces that I have done, and not being afraid to make mistakes. The only way to find out when something doesn’t work is to try it. Clients appreciate honesty… color and texture can be modified and removed, and there is no place for an ego. Also, be confident, not arrogant. A client appreciates when I tell them what I’m doing, and WHY! Also, be on time, be professional, and be prepared. A degree in psychology might help too, as many times we are working with clients on a very big day for them, and the stress level is high. Be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem. There is no place for “Prima Donnas” when you are being trusted with the finished product
Please tell us about Makeup By Dory.
My specialty is real beauty for real women. I show my clients how to enhance themselves for an advancement in their career or for social situations. I am a teacher at heart, so I love to break makeup down into a manageable skill for everyone. I can’t lie, though, I love a good opportunity to have a bride, prom girl, or gala attendee look in the mirror and say “this is exactly what I wanted to look like on this day”. I am the proudest of my referrals, as they speak volumes about customer satisfaction. I am also very flexible, as I have worked in just about every environment and situation. I come prepared with proper lighting and emergency items that the client may not have thought about. I subscribe to the mantra “make it work”!
Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
I was the only girl in my family, growing up with two brothers. We were very sports oriented growing up, and I played multiple sports. I learned to work hard and work as a team to get the job done. However, even at a young age, I would leave the court or field and I loved to play with my makeup, hair, and outfits. I had a little bit of a split personality, so when I had to opportunity to do makeup as a career, I was thrilled. As a mom to 3 girls, it was also very special that they trusted me to do their makeup for all of their special occasions. Soon, I will be able to do one of my daughter’s makeup for her wedding. That will truly be a treasured memory.
Pricing:
- Special occasion makeup at any location (within 30 miles) $100 (includes false lashes)
- Bridal pricing is $100 for the bride (includes a trial) and $75 for all other adults (includes false lashes)
Contact Info:
- Phone: (951) 719-7141
- Email: dorylathrop@gmail.com
- Instagram: makeupbydorysd
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
