Professional Makeup Artist Sonya M. Jones Speaks with AC from YAHOO!

The world's economy seems to be in a place where a lot of people are cutting back on some luxuries in life, however even in a down economy women aren't letting go of their makeup. That's right, for centuries women have made make up a part of their essential daily routine. The cost of makeup is still reasonable compared to elective plastic surgeries and other invasive procedures that some women opt for in order to feel beautiful. Wearing makeup gives you that little extra confidence when going on that job interview or first date. With makeup you can be as creative as you'd like without permanently changing your appearance.

My personal make up essentials consist of lip gloss and sometimes mascara as I personally feel that less is more. However, for those big events like weddings, anniversaries, book launches and birthdays, I think a little extra make up just brings out the glamor in everyone. Today I caught up with Professional MUA Sonya M. Jones and wanted to learn more about the fabulous world of Makeup.

YAHOO: Hi Sonya. How are you today?

SMJ: I am wonderful, thank you for asking.

YAHOO: When did you first know you had the gift and desire to make people beautiful?

SMJ: I knew I had the desire and gift to make people beautiful about 16 years ago not to long after graduating college.

YAHOO: Sonya, when did that desire turn into a business for you?

SMJ: In the summer of 1994 is when I entered into the cosmetic business. I began to sell products and perform complimentary makeovers with Mary Kay Cosmetics. It was then that I began to realize that there was more to makeup then just selling products for a company. After a stint of being a beauty consultant I had a strong desire to learn more on the history of makeup, different fields of the makeup industry and different lines of cosmetics.

At that time I than became employed with MAC cosmetics where I received the majority of my formal training as a makeup artist. Still not satisfied with where I was as a makeup artist I decided to begin my own business as a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist. Starting my own business gave me the freedom to travel as a Professional Makeup Artist and it allowed me to network and forge great partnerships with other professionals in and outside the fashion industry.

YAHOO: What new hot makeup trends are you seeing in the Virginia area?

SMJ: The hot new makeup trends for Virginia are a Smokey eye, red lips, colorful eye shadows and the natural looking makeup. The natural look would consist of a mineral foundation, little mascara and bare lips.

YAHOO: Now tell us a little bit about your company Nu Images of You. What services do you provide to your clients?

SMJ: Nu Images of You LLC provides professional makeup artistry, image consulting, weddings services, wardrobe management and verbal and non-verbal communications, international protocol and etiquette. In addition to our creative services, Nu Images of You is committed to forging partnerships and networking and unlimited cross over marketing.

The services that we provide for our clients are as follows: Makeup Services and Image Consulting, Makeup application for beauty pageants and fashion shows, Red Carpet Events, Glamor Makeovers, Charity, Consultations, Film/Photography/Commercials, Print Media, Makeup and Skincare workshops, Black Tie Events, Senior and Social Events, Makeup for Models, Headshots/Comp Cards and Photo/Video Shoots.

YAHOO: Sonya, what words of advice would you give to aspiring Make Up Artist?

SMJ: For all aspiring Make Up Artist out there the advice that I would like to share is; research the area of the industry that you have a desire to go into. What I mean by that is decide whether you want to do special effects makeup, glamor makeup, editorial makeup, or high fashion. Then learn everything there is to know about that area. Never give up and stay connected to positive people. Plan your work and work your plan. Much success to all aspiring artists.

YAHOO: How can people contact you for a consultation?

SMJ: People may contact me through my website at www.nuimagesofyou.com or by email nuimagesofyou@gamil.com or by phone (804) 651-0346

YAHOO: Sonya, it was my absolute pleasure speaking with you today and I wish you much success in your feature endeavors

SMJ: Thank you for the opportunity to share.