Meet Trailblazer Jennifer Chriss

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Chriss.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Jennifer. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started working in the makeup industry, professionally, 13 years ago. It all started when I walked into Nordstrom Scottsdale and applied for a position in cosmetics. I was just finishing my Bachelor’s degree at Arizona State and needed a job. I had zero retail experience and had never applied makeup on someone I didn’t know, so I didn’t think I’d get a job selling makeup, I was honestly just hoping for a paycheck. The man that ended up hiring me, thank you, Larry, wherever you are! said he’d give me a shot, and placed me with the brand Prescriptives. I worked for that line or brand, for a little over a year. I learned a lot and worked very hard to learn as much about the other lines in the store as well.

My break came shortly after I left Nordstrom. During my time at that store, I worked closely and became friends with the counter manager for Bobbi Brown. She suggested because I left for a part time position working in education, that I freelance for Bobbi Brown in my freetime. That single decision I firmly believe led me down my current path. I have since freelanced for Bobbi Brown, NARS, CHANEL, Charlotte Tilbury, and Laura Mercier. I’ve also been blessed with the opportunity to work the past two seasons with the Arizona Opera Company doing makeup and wigs for their cast members.

In 2015, I decided to create my own brand and Jennifer Chriss Beauty was born. I have been a part of weddings, runway shoots, on location headshots, tv, print and countless black tie, red carpet functions. When I’m not applying makeup, I’m teaching how to use it. My approach is about enabling women to feel more capable and comfortable by teaching them how to use and apply their products.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My journey has been relatively smooth. Thinking back, there were a couple bumps. But I’m not the type to dwell or hang on to those things. I can say the one bump I still encounter is myself. I think we all have moments of self-doubt; am I really that good?! But in those moments, I remind myself that my gifting is what got me here and then I breathe and keep moving forward.

Advice to those just starting? Be voracious in your pursuit of knowledge. Learn from your peers, and always work with someone you feel is more talented. I guarantee you’ll pick something up that you didn’t know. Be humble. Makeup is intimidating for a lot of people. Listen. Listen. Listen. It’s not about you, it’s about the person or people you’re working for and it’s their experience and time and money. Be professional in how you present yourself. I’ve earned many jobs because I’m on time and put together. And lastly, you can never have too many brushes.

We’d love to hear more about Jennifer Chriss Beauty.
I do makeup: weddings, tv, print ads, headshots, runway, black tie and special occasion. I teach makeup application to all ages and skill levels and I train other artists. Out of all this, came my brand, my business and I’m so proud to say, this is what I do.

I think if you were to ask any of my regular clients they would say they continue to use me because of my personality. I do great makeup, but that only gets one so far. I love what I do and that passion comes across every single time I work with someone. And I always do my best to keep my clients laughing. I think all the above is truly what sets me apart.

What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Again, just learn as much as you can! And show up prepared; hair, nails, attire, all clean and on point, and make sure your kit is ready and clean too!

Contact Info:

• Website: Jennifer-chriss.com
• Email: jennifer@jennifer-chriss.com
• Instagram: @jenniferchriss

Image Credit:
Shelley Franklin, Franklin Photography Studios

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