On this episode of Behind the Brush, Beth is joined by one of Sydney’s most in-demand makeup artists, Alex Perrin. With over ten years’ experience, Alex has done everything from editorial to ecommerce, has hosted her own masterclasses and is sought after for her iconic bridal artistry that has seen her travel not just all over Australia, but all over the world.
Listen as Beth and Alex speak candidly about the joys of being a bridal artist, how to stay grounded during your ‘hustle era’ and why you should NEVER forget why you started.
Episode resources:
If you enjoyed this episode then please either:
On this episode of Behind the Brush, Beth is joined by one of Sydney’s most in-demand makeup artists, Alex Perrin. With over ten years’ experience, Alex has done everything from editorial to ecommerce, has hosted her own masterclasses and is sought after for her iconic bridal artistry that has seen her travel not just all over Australia, but all over the world.
Listen as Beth and Alex speak candidly about the joys of being a bridal artist, how to stay grounded during your ‘hustle era’ and why you should NEVER forget why you started.
Episode resources:
If you enjoyed this episode then please either:
This is Behind the Brush by Saint Jack.
Alex Perrin:I'm quite a confident person. I like to think I am like, especially when it comes to my work, I know my worth. I know what I bring to the table. I love what I do. And at the end of the day, I focus more about the experience that I have with people rather than the actual work itself. So when I'm on a job, I'm focusing on them and having a good time. Like, what's the point if you're not having.
Beth Wilson:Hello. And welcome back to Behind the Brush. It's me, it's Beth, your host makeup artist and founder of Saint Jack Cosmetics. How are ya? I'm feeling pretty good. Pretty, pretty, pretty good. If you watch curb your enthusiasm, that would've made sense. If you know, you know, if you don't, I highly recommend you go check that show out. That's my unsolicited recommendation for you. I am going to give you the quickest life update of all time, because I am just way too excited to get into the juice of today's show. But essentially I. Just wanna let you know that if you've been listening for a while, you would know that I went into research and development for Saint Jack product number two in March. So it was quite a few months ago and I actually received my sample initially quite quickly. I got it either in the last week of March or the first week of April, but then when it came through, I just like, wasn't stoked with it. Like it did what it needed to do, but the texture of it wasn't quite right. And the fragrance of it wasn't quite right either. And like, you guys are in the best way possible, like so particular you love the way the makeup cleaning, miss smells. And so like, I just couldn't with good conscience, manufacture this without just going back to the drawing board and saying, all right, well, We need to make this a lot better than it is. I am never, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever gonna put my name on something or Saint Jack's name on something that I am not 110% happy with, or that I wouldn't wanna buy myself as a makeup artist and someone who loves a makeup, but I am so pleased to announce that the sample version two arrived and it is everything I wanted it to be and more it arrived last week. And so now I have entered into the next phase of getting that done in the mass manufacturing. which kind of includes designing the packaging, which is gonna be so pretty. You're going to love it. And then of course manufacturing the whole thing, which is a super expensive little venture. I'm going on all over again. R I P me, but look, that's my problem. Not yours. I know that this is just gonna. Oh, you're gonna love it so much. You're gonna be like, Beth, how on earth did I do my makeup without this? And I'll be like, I know SIS. I know I got you, but that's why we worked hard in the background to make it absolutely perfect. And I'm so happy to tell you that we are there, but now that that update is done. Let's get to the star of today's show because let me tell you it sure as shit ain't me. I am very excited today to be joined by the one and only Alex parent. Alex is one of Sydney's most in demand makeup artist. And in fact, she is the first ever makeup artist from Sydney or new south Wales that I've had on this podcast. And. Fact blows my mind, SAS, Sydney, SAS listeners in Sydney. that I haven't been representing you, but I've got a doozy for you today with over 10 years experience, Alex actually got her start as a Christmas casual at Mecca. I think they call them a summer host now, but she was really quickly. I'm talking within months of working at Mecca. She was quickly promoted to management before she eventually went. Full-time freelance just a few years later and becoming renowned for her signature style that enhances and elevates natural. Beauty Alex works closely these days with major celebrities. And most recently she was actually handpicked by Kyle Richards of the real Housewives of Beverly Hills. I am a big real Housewives viewer. So this one like got me good. And then she was picked by Kyle to actually spend the week glamming her when Kyle came to Sydney or Australia, actually for the first time ever. And Alex was given free reign and trust just to work her magic, which has says so much about her skill and also her energy there. Truly just guys, honestly, I'm telling you this, there was not enough time in this episode to even talk about all the different things that I wanted to talk about with Alex. She has worked in literally every single corner at the industry. She has done everything from fashion editorial to eCommerce shoots. She's hosted her. Master classes and she is sought after for her iconic bridal artistry that sees her travel, not just all over Australia, but she has done destination weddings as well, all over the world. I am of course, very excited to have her on the show to talk about her work and her approach to work, but also her approach to keeping a positive mindset working in this super competitive sometimes cutthroat industry. This conversation is so special to me. As you all hear in the show, Alex really touched me with her attitude towards our work as artists, as well as just some straight life chat. So, you know what, as per usual, that's enough for me, ladies and gentlemen, I give you Alex paren. Yes. Queen Alex Perrin. Welcome to Behind the Brush.
Alex Perrin:Thank you. Bear. Thank you for having me.
Beth Wilson:My pleasure. I was just telling you that you are the first makeup artist I've ever had on the show from Sydney, which is crazy.
Alex Perrin:I love this. Like off we go.
Beth Wilson:Off we go, we gotta represent, we gotta hit that. We gotta hit that market. It's kind of crazy when I realize I've been doing this show for almost a year, but anyway, it's time. It's about damn time. So we'll jump straight into it. The first thing I wanna ask you, I asked all my guests was what did you wanna be when you grew up?
Alex Perrin:Honestly, like I was, I've never been the kind of person that, you know, was five or like even a bit older. That was always like, I wanna be a doctor or, you know, I wanna be a vet. It was always like, I just enjoyed what I was enjoying at the time. And I was like, I'll figure it out when it gets to that, you know, to the point that I need to have it figured out, but I've always like enjoyed sport. I would say if anything, I was always like, I wanted to be an athlete or, you know, a musician or something like that. But definitely more probably down the athlete road, like hockey was definitely something that I was super passionate about growing up. And I had ambitions to like, you know, travel the world and play for the OOS and all that kind of stuff. So,
Beth Wilson:That's an ambition then that's I wanted to be an athlete. Yeah.
Alex Perrin:I guess so
Beth Wilson:that's definitely something. Oh, that's so interesting. Do you still play hockey now?
Alex Perrin:no, well, life took a massive turn when I injured my back very badly when I was 17. So those hopes and dreams kind of went down the drain, but I mean, in hindsight, it's all happened for a really good reason, you know,
Beth Wilson:Amen. Everything always does. So how did you get into makeup then?
Alex Perrin:so I probably started wearing makeup when I was like six. My mom used to buy me those really basic kits that like kids would play with, you know, from Kmart and target. I was always like in that section of the, in the shops, you know, like, you know, putting nail Polish on and I would literally do a full face of makeup from like the age of yes, six, seven. I would do the blue eyes shadow the red lipstick, the pink blush, and I would. Make my family sit down and like, I would do a full blown, like fashion show and dance routine. Like that's what I enjoyed doing. So I, I wouldn't say I got into makeup later on. It was like always part of my life. So I don't know where that came from because like, no, like my sister doesn't wear makeup. My mom never wore makeup. The only person that really was into that kind of scene was my auntie. So I, I don't know if she was the inspiration behind all of this, but I was very, like, there was definitely two sides to me. I had like my girly girl side and then I was a massive tomboy. So yeah, I guess you could say I was playing, playing with makeup from a really young age.
Beth Wilson:Oh, my God. That's crazy. I totally know the little kits that you're talking about. The little Kmart moment with like those really shitty disposable applicators.
Alex Perrin:the applicates yeah, for the, I, yeah, exactly. The sponge
Beth Wilson:Yeah. Yeah. I know exactly where you're at with that one. so good. So I suppose that was always kind of a part of what you were doing and then you started studying makeup when you were, was it 20 or 19?
Alex Perrin:I was 20. Yeah. So I was 20 when I started studying
Beth Wilson:What drove that decision?
Alex Perrin:after school. Like I, yeah. I didn't know what I wanted to do. And I sort of turned to my dad and said, you know, dad, I don't know like what I want to do, but all I, all I know is that I want to be fulfilling my purpose with my career. I don't wanna be doing something for the sake of, to like tick boxes for other people, or just, you know, like fulfilling society's expectations of, you know, what I should be doing. It was always a matter of I'm waiting for that light bulb moment, but I just, I dunno what it is. And I guess, yeah, my dad was like, well, you can't do like nothing until that moment. So why don't you just go and study business and do get your degree in business and then see what happens? And I was like, okay, without, you know, too much consideration, I've never been an academic. Person, like school was really tough for me in that sense. And I did go to a school that, you know, heavily was AC you know, was completely academic, you know, I, yeah. I really struggled in that sense, but then yeah. Going from school to uni, just, it made no sense at all. So I, I started bachelor of business and marketing and I deferred three weeks later.
Beth Wilson:Oh, my God. that is such a quick deferral
Alex Perrin:Yeah. I think, I think at that point it was, I was also very much on a journey of like figuring myself out as a person, but I knew that that wasn't my path. So I knew that I wanted to eventually have my own business and work for myself, but that wasn't. Part of the process for me. So I deferred and my dad was like, what are you doing? And yeah, I guess I just was like, I need to figure this out myself. So I started working in retail because I just needed to do something. And then I was working at a store. I don't know if you are familiar with Pi toe
Beth Wilson:pee toe, like shoes.
Alex Perrin:shoes, shoes, jewelry, and like bags.
Beth Wilson:It it's ringing a bell.
Alex Perrin:So we're going back to like, yeah, like over 10 years ago from when this was like, I think that was when it was in its like peak, you know, so it was a very girly environment, very glamorous. We had to wear, you know, full makeup. Every time we worked in the store, we would dress up. We would wear high heels that, that whole kind of experience sort of sparks this interest of like self empowerment and just looking and feeling amazing. So. I then was working next to a Mac store and I found myself always in Mac, like I would be on, on my shift or whatever. And I would just be like, it's really quiet. I'm just gonna pop over next door. And then I would like spend 45 minutes in Mac next door. So the girls in there were like, you are really excited about all of this and you know, you, you are really good at it. And I would spend all my money on makeup. Like it just, everything was sort of aligning into this, this world that yeah. Was completely new and foreign to me. Cause no one really. Yeah. Like I said, no one in my family was, you know, even aware that this could be a career or something that you could pursue as you know,
Beth Wilson:Yeah, well, you and I are actually I think roughly the same age and I had the same experience, like when I came out of school and I started working, I was like hoarding makeup. I loved it. I was buying everything that I could, and I just had my other job because it was never even a thought in my mind that makeup artistry was a career or the beauty industry was a career. So I, I totally get that. Whereas these days I meet girls now who are like 14 and they're still in high school or kind of middle school. And they're like, I know I wanna be a makeup artist when I finished. And I'm like that wasn't an option for
Alex Perrin:Yeah, it was an option. And, you know, I like, I come from a family where, you know, being successful only fits into a certain category. So you need to have your degree, you need to be a doctor or a lawyer, or, you know, a dentist or I don't know, whatever else, like there's just. Certain like caliber of career path that was sort of expected of all of us. So when I recognized that that makeup was definitely something that I was super passionate about, I felt empowered and I could see how I could almost relay that feeling and that experience onto other people. It was like a matter of weeks where I was like, I'm just gonna go and I'm gonna do my research and just see, you know, what I need to do to make this happen. So I spoke to a girl that I went to school with. She was actually here above me and she went down a similar path and she was almost like mentoring me and kind of like helping me just tap into this whole, you know, world and understand how I could go about it. And she was like, you know, this is where I studied. This is what I'm doing now. And so on. So then I went to an open day at the college that I studied at, which was Cameron Jane makeup design. It's like a more sort of niche, private college. And I saw that the principal was wearing PTO shoes. And I was like, this is aligning. Like, that's not a freaking coincidence. I was like,
Beth Wilson:That's crazy.
Alex Perrin:I saw her. And I was like, she's wearing Pi to shoes. I'm wearing a Pi to like, it's something so silly, but it was just like that moment where I was like, this is, this is where I need to be. So I then.
Beth Wilson:that's not silly just to interrupt you. That is not silly. I am. So one of those people who believe in the coincidence of all those things is not a co.
Alex Perrin:it was like, the universe was just giving me a massive sign of this is, yeah, this is what you need to do. So I then enrolled and I started, it was a matter of like, I'd say a matter of a month. So I then had to let my work know, obviously at Pepto, I was a manager at that point. So I said, you know, I'm taking a new journey. This is like, this is the part that I'm taking. And my own manager was really sad because she, like, we had a really great relationship and she helped me through a lot of stuff. So she, we had a really good relationship, you know, other than, you know, beyond the, the work sort of environment. Um, but she was super excited for me and she could see that there was a lot of potential there and she was like, I'm really excited to see where you take this. So off I went, I studied, you know, started studying, um, at Cameron Jane in, in doing a certificate for, and then within two months, I applied at Mecca as a Christmas casual and I got the job and I was so excited. Like I just felt like I was, you know, in my element and that quickly turned into a management role. So again, another two months later it was like, right, you have management experience, you've got plenty of retail experience. Here you go. Like, take the reins. Like everyone's, you know, super excited to have you as, you know, one of the leaders of the store. So that was amazing. And yeah, I stayed at Mecca for three years and in that time I was, yeah, just learning about the back end of a business. And so again, it was like a full circle moment because me not studying, you know, not getting a degree in. I was just learning it physically. Like I was in the thick of it, thrown into the deep end. It wasn't someone telling me, you know, this is how business works. So I, you know, it goes back to saying that there's no right or wrong way about anything. Like it's what, it's what resonates with you as a person. And, you know, everyone, everyone has their own journey in their own path. So there, there is no right and wrong. So that's kind of how I got into yeah. Into, you know, working in retail and studying. And yeah, that was, that was how it all begun.
Beth Wilson:Yeah, it's crazy. I ki I so agree with the idea that like, for some. Adding business is a great thing for others. It's not like I've had some really unsolicited advice from people who should not be giving it to me. like my ex-boyfriend's new girlfriend telling me you should go do an MBA. You should go do an MBA. If you wanna have a business, I'm like, I don't need to, like, I've worked in businesses my whole career. Like, it just, it doesn't resonate for me. And like, you don't have to fit into a box of what makes sense. Just because that's like a normal pathway or like a defined pathway. So I'm so with you the SS, so with you, so you were doing coursework at the same time that you were working in retail. Did you end up finishing that course by the way?
Alex Perrin:yes, I did. So it was a year, it was a grueling year cuz I was studying full-time and I was working full-time so working in the store, 38 to 40 hours a week, which ends up being ends up being more anyway, because you know, meetings and just there's always stuff to do and always working from home anyway. And then I would literally, yeah, so I would do a eight hour shift at the shop and I would go straight to study at night. So it was three times a week and yeah, full day, Saturday. at college and then, yeah, literally I had no life. It was one of those situations that I just knew what I had to do. And I've always had that like hustle in me, like nothing was ever too difficult or too much. I just made it work. It was just one of those things that I knew that there was a finish line and yeah, I just, I had my eye on the prize. There was no other way around. I was just I've always. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. But I would say it definitely kept me focused, definitely challenging at times, especially for the relationship that I was in at the time, because I, and even with friendships, like I literally didn't see anyone my partner at the time was like, what is like, what is the point? You know? Like we don't even see each other. Um, so yeah, I've, I've kind of always had that, that drive and I've always been super determined. So as soon as I put my mind to something, it's like, there's no way around it. And yeah, that was, that was sort of how, how my life was for a really. Decent chunk of time. Cause even after I finished my course, you know, working as a freelancer, like we'll get to that probably more later on, but the hassle never ends, you know, like you always onto the next thing and you know, saying yes to every opportunity. So you end up just your life is completely revolving around, you know, building a business. And that's just a huge sacrifice that you need to make. If you do want to be an entrepreneur and you do wanna have your own business,
Beth Wilson:It's so true. This is just like, as a complete side note resonating with me so much at the moment. Like just, I would say over like the last month or so. Yeah, just like the last month or so I've just been like, oh my gosh, like my entire life is just work. Like it's the podcast, it's the brand, it's doing makeup. It's doing this, it's doing that. It's so much. But like when I sit in it, I'm like, I'm doing this for a reason. It's okay. But I'm actually recognizing for the first time ever that these are sacrifices that are being made, but it's, it's intense sometimes, like when you've got all of this stuff going on, but unfortunately I feel like we're about to learn from your story that it potentially doesn't end for a while longer. the hustle, but all we can, all we can hope for is that eventually. At some point, we get the balance. Right. But I am curious to learn if you were kind of studying and doing retail, was there one that you felt like aligned with you more for your experience or development as an actual artist?
Alex Perrin:Both definitely served their purpose. Doing the course was more of like building up a connection network, doing a huge amount of work experience like we had to do. How many hours, I can't even remember, but it was like 80 hours of unpaid work. So you can imagine how many jobs that we would have to do. You know, it, it was a lot of photo shoots. It was fashion staff. It was yeah. Assisting on jobs with bigger artists that were, you know, quite significant in, in the industry. And then even just, yeah, doing our own clients, you know, that, that, that was sort of an, an expectation of the course, you know, to finish. So it definitely pushed me into the deep end in. Sense. And then the retail side of it was definitely more of like a building, my confidence, working with clients, how to communicate with people, understanding what people's needs are. Yeah. Like pinpointing questions. So you can, you can achieve, you know, whatever expectations they have of their makeup and the experience that they are wanting. I learn about products. I learned about skincare and the importance of skincare. There was so many layers to both of them. That definitely set me up to be like a well rounded artist and definitely like the stepping stones to like, you know what I do now. Absolutely. So, yeah. I, I mean, if you would say, is there one that I would recommend for people to delve into? I would say if you can do both then that, that would be, you know, ideal, not necessarily studying at a private college, if that's not an option for you, or if that doesn't resonate, but definitely learning from artists. So even doing, you know, one-on-ones with multiple artists, that's another really great option or, you know, at an academy that, that, you know, uh, resonates with you. It, it could be any way of learning, but learning from people that are established in the industry is you can't put a price on that. Learning from people's experiences and mistakes and what works and what, you know, what doesn't, that's super important to recognize for sure.
Beth Wilson:So true. So you just mentioned that it was kind of part of the coursework that you needed to kind of do shoots and stuff like that. And a lot of that would've been TFP or time. What is it? Time for print or something like that? You can tell that I don't do many shoots um, but whatever, that's not my shtick, but the point is. A lot of people are really into that. So I wanna ask you about this. I have spoken to penny anty about this on the show, you know, about how do you really kind of get the ball rolling when it comes to working on shoots? Because obviously that's something that you still do to this day. So I'm just curious, like how did you get your foot in the door there and what was your experience kind of building up those relationships to make sure you were getting those on a consistent basis?
Alex Perrin:So, if I'm gonna start from scratch, it was definitely unpaid work to begin with. And a lot of test shoots, just allowing people to know that that's the kind of work that you are doing and the kind of work that you want to be doing. That's the kind of content that you need to be putting out there. So I started shoots from the get go, but yes, like I said, I was doing unpaid. For a decent amount of time, you know, while I was studying and then a couple, you know, afterwards as well, I never said no to any opportunity. I was all like just yes, to absolutely everything that came my way. So from that, I definitely met the right people. And I think in that area of the industry, it's, it's who, you know, it's your network, it's your connections? It's the relationships you build with people that are in, in that side of the industry? I think I had a good friend who she has an agency that they basically are a concierge for bridal, anything bridal, really, and branding. They've got like a whole clientele basis of, you know, different designers and everything like that. So whenever they would have a shoot or a new campaign or they were doing, you know, content. She would book me for hair and makeup. And that's another thing that, that really challenged me because I was definitely more of, you know, how to focus on makeup and hair was never even in my realm. And she was like, well, girlfriend, if you want to be doing shoots, you need to be doing hair. There's only a really small percentage of, of brands and companies that are willing to have a budget that will cover for hair and make a separate, you know, artists. So I kind of lit, I just had to wing it. I literally just had to just say, you know,
Beth Wilson:Yeah, I was gonna say, like, how did you learn how to do hair so quickly?
Alex Perrin:hair was definitely, there was a module in the course that we were forced to not forced to do. Like, it was just, it was part of the course I felt forced. I was like, I'm being attacked. Like I hate hair. I, I can't like I'm alright at doing my own hair, but why do I need to do everyone else's hair? Like, I, I don't enjoy that, but you know, it again, like it was. It, it, it is a really good skill to have, and it's something that I'm still learning so much about today. Still have so much room to, to move in that area. So yeah. So I was thrown into the deep end, you know, with that. And then obviously the more jobs that I was picking up, the more work I was putting out there for, for that sort of work. And then, and then it kind of was a roll on effect, like a domino effect. People were seeing that I was doing a lot of shoots and working with certain brands and off we went, you know?
Beth Wilson:Yeah, it's wild. So if I'm just thinking about kind of your timeline, you had finished, your course, you worked at Mecca for about three years. And during that three years you were freelancing and you were working on these shoots that were just talking about, but you were also doing Brid on special event makeup. Is that right?
Alex Perrin:Yeah.
Beth Wilson:First of all, how did you survive? And second of all, no kidding. How did you survive and how did you get those freelance clients? Were you just like posting on Instagram all the time and people finding you on hashtags? Were you kind of poaching them from your store? Like what was the tea with that.
Alex Perrin:So definitely, you know, working at the store, I was, I had my regulars, I built really great relationships with some amazing women who I still see to this day. Like, it's, it's just crazy. Even when you think that these clients have followed you and you know, you still work with them, they've been like day ones. And that goes to show that we've, you know, we've built a friendship around, around just me doing their makeup. So I'm, I'm very much part of their lives and vice versa. And so yeah, building the clientele up through the store was a natural progression. I didn't purposely, you know, say, oh, like I'm doing makeup on the side. It was never that intent ever. It was more like. Alex, if you're available, I'd love for you to come to my house and do my makeup for this event, or I've got, you know, the gold ball or whatever it was, it was more of a, I just, I just wanna make sure that I'm booking you. Cause sometimes when you book into a retail store, you know, you can get put with anyone. You don't really know what you're walking into.
Beth Wilson:Yeah, that was that's something I always will kind of not warn clients about, but they'll be like, oh, I can't, you know, if I can't get in with you, I'll just book with Mecca. And I'm not saying that there's any, anything wrong with anyone who works there, but I'm like, just be careful because you don't necessarily know who you're gonna get and they might not align with your aesthetic. Like you might want something really super soft and natural and get someone who's more like the urban decay, like heavy kind of cut crease vibes. You gotta, you never know.
Alex Perrin:Yep, exactly. So, yeah, I, I kind of just, you know, was focusing on, I was definitely, always focusing on building up my clientele because ultimately I did want to just be solely working for myself. So when it got to the point that I was ready to leave, I was terrified by the way, like I remember I had. a conversation with my eldest brother who is a life coach. And he said that you're never gonna be ready to have your own business and work for yourself. Like there's never gonna be an ideal time. You just need to take the leap. Like, what are you waiting for? You know, he kind of really pushed me into making that decision and diving into the deep end because I was really nervous. I was so used to, you know, a weekly wage and structure and almost the comfort of knowing what was going on. Cuz when you are a freelancer, there is no nothing is, you know, set in stone. You kind of at first are you work, you're working week to week and only with bridal, that's the only area of the industry that you are planning so far in advance and it's locking in work. You know, let's say a year in advance, at least. So if you don't have that mapped up for yourself, it is really scary not knowing when your work's coming in and when you work, when you, when you aren't. So there's definitely a transitional period where you're gonna feel like this is really uncomfortable and I'm like, yeah, really nervous about it. And I don't, I don't really know when my next job is gonna come in, but you just need to trust. And the hard work definitely does pay off. I always say that the energy that you invest into anything will always come back. So I just knew that I had to work my little TU off to make things happen for myself.
Beth Wilson:I, I loved that.
Alex Perrin:yeah, it was just kind of like, let's just make this happen. Like not, not succeeding and not winning was not an option for me. So again, that, that drive and that determination and that self-motivation was always there. It's always been there. I think. You know, going back to when I was playing a lot of sport and, and athlete that, that drive and that motivation it's, it's sort of like instilled in my brain from that experience in my life, that time in my life, you know, you always have goals and you always want more for yourself. And that mindset, I definitely carried through into, you know, building my business and my clientele, but the bridal side of it, my first wedding came from one of my Mecca clients. I'd done her makeup a few times in the store and she came to me one day for an event. And she said, Alex, I'm getting married in, you know, a year or so. And I really want you to do my makeup. And I looked at her and I was like, what do you mean I was like, babe, I don't like, I've never done a wedding. And she was like, I know she's like, I just love what you do with my makeup. Every time I come here and I know you and I trust you and I want you there. And I was like, Okay. So I just literally said yes again, it's going back to saying yes to every opportunity. I was terrified. Didn't know what I was walking into. And the only things that I'd ever heard from bridal, anything to do with the bridal side of the industry was it's stressful. It's hard work. It's exhausting. You know, you're dealing with a lot of emotions. You're dealing with high intensity environments and I was sort of jaded and a bit like kind of, I don't know if I wanna tap into that into that world because I dunno if it's resonating with me just based on other people's opinions, mind you definitely big learning for me is to not take on what other people say. It's very much a, you need to experience it yourself to see if that resonates with you or not. So, yeah.
Beth Wilson:So, so true. So you actually still even do bridal to this day. Is that right?
Alex Perrin:Yes. A lot of right. Or, yeah,
Beth Wilson:What is it that you love specifically about bridal artistry?
Alex Perrin:I think the most. Fulfilling thing about working with brides is that first off they're everyday people, these girls it's the most exciting day of their lives. It's something that, you know, a lot of women dream of from, you know, since they're like six years old, they're marrying the love of their life. It's a, it's a huge milestone in, in their life. So to be part of that experience, you are almost part of their family in the morning, the whole journey and the process leading up to the wedding. You're also part of, so it's not just on the day, it's the lead up. It's, you know, you are literally the first point of contact of the day. So for me, I, I love that because it's like I create a really fun and safe environment. I, I want them to have the best time while I'm getting them ready. It's like, they've got their closest girlfriends, their, their moms, their family, you know, it's, they're so much love in the room. So much excitement. Like, it's such a positive space to be in, you know, you can't really, I can't really fault it. And I think me just finding that I had something really special to offer these girls just came with experience and obviously understanding that, yes, it is a very intense, it can be an intense time, you know, when you're getting everyone ready, cause you're working under time constraints. You, you obviously want to make sure that everyone's happy and, and they're happy with how they look and how they feel, but also you need to be extremely grounded and aware of. The energy and the vibe that is created in that space, because as soon as things can get a little bit interesting and hairy, you need to diffuse the situations and make sure that everything is under control. So that it's not only a matter of doing the makeup. It's, it's literally the start to finish experience, which, um, I really love, I really love looking after people and making them feel amazing. That's, that's my core purpose. And you know, the reason why I do what I do, it's it's about yeah. Empowering women and making them look and feel amazing. So to be able to have that impact on someone's wedding day is really, it hits home to me because it doesn't get better. Does it, like, I think ultimately, you know, I think of like when I get married, I can't wait to feel the best that I've ever felt, you know, and it will be emotional and exciting. And I like, I always put myself in other people's shoes, so yeah, it's, it's a really, really nice experience.
Beth Wilson:It's so beautiful to hear that and to hear that kind of like positive recollection of the experience, because I know that I don't know if it's the same in Sydney, but it's certainly a thing down here in Melbourne that a lot of quite established artists are starting to say no to weddings. For what reason? I don't know, but people are finding it really stressful. I think, you know, having two years of lockdown and like we had a lot of COVID brides and their anxiety was like through the roof. And so I feel like at least down here in Melbourne, I don't know if it's the same anywhere else. There was kind of this negative connotation with it because the stress levels were just so much higher than they usually were, that people were kind of stepping away from it. But, you know, knowing like intrinsically that you are really making such a difference to someone on such an important day, like surely at the core of it all, that's why we do what we do.
Alex Perrin:absolutely.
Beth Wilson:So it's just nice to hear that. It's just really nice to hear that again. And yeah, we love to hear it. Interrupting this episode of me talking with more of me talking it's Beth, the founder of Saint Jack. And I just wanted to quickly remind you that the makeup cleaning miss is a must have for your professional artistry kit made with the highest quality alcohol. So it absorbs quickly and smells so good. The miss kills the bacteria on the surface of all of your products, like your eyeshadow, palettes, bronzes, blushes, everything. So everything can stay nice and clean between clients proud Australian made. Get your hands on the miss. Online at WW dot Saint Jack dot com AU and use code Brush 15 to join the hundreds of other artists like 10 J penny antra and Jack kale, who always had the miss by their side. Now let's get back to the show. Now I drew this for all of my guests, so I went back through your entire Instagram feed. all the way down and you know what I'll say, this CYS was scrolling. I was scrolling for so long . I was like, oh my God, I'm gonna get. Whatever, whatever it's called.
Alex Perrin:I made you work. I made you work.
Beth Wilson:Yeah, I was working overtime for that one. CIS needed a spicy mark at the end, but I got all the way I got all the way to the bottom and what I could see kind of like scrolling through, because like I can match up like the years, you know, obviously like the dates of when the post happened, you know, and there were lots and lots and lots of different make up styles. And it's not just you, you know, working on clients, but it was also you in the, in like videos I was seeing, there was kind of like a little beauty, like makeup guru moment that we were going through that phase as well. And you know, there's like so many trends that happen through the years and they still happen. Now. We all do them now. And they're kind of emerging on TikTok now rather than YouTube, but I started to see the signature style that I see in your work now kind of emerge in like 2019. So that was like quite a few years of you being an artist, like to kind of work up to. You know what your style is. So I'm just curious to know, like, how would you describe your style or like your approach to makeup and like, how did you really work to develop.
Alex Perrin:So, I guess that whole process came. it probably stemmed with the journey I've had with myself. I mean, we are always constantly growing as people. And I think that time of, you know, prior to 2019, where I really did find my signature style and that moment of just like, this is, this makes sense to me, and this is what's working and I love this kind of, you know, the work that I'm doing prior to that. It was definitely yeah. A, a journey of growth within myself. And I, I mean, I got to the point where it was, yeah. Everything was aligning in terms of the work, the clients that I was attracting, the people that inspired me as well, the kind of artists that I, you know, would look to and go, wow, that like really beautiful work and, you know, those sort of things definitely influenced me and the artistry that I wanted to kind of channel
Beth Wilson:do you mind if I ask who are some of your biggest inspires?
Alex Perrin:well, I mean, I love like Patrick tar and Nicky makeup. They're probably like my favorite. Mario is amazing as well. Like there's, there's some, there are so many artists and I think like a lot of the Israeli artists definitely inspired me as well. Like they they've just got something really beautiful going on over there. So, I mean, I look to like, you know, so many different artists that, you know, what, what they're doing and, and what's working and what, what aligns with me as well. And I think, yeah, I kind of, I kind of just fine tuned my style, even myself. Like, I feel like I've gone through a massive transition as a person and how I present myself and, you know, my own branding as well. So that all kind of fit in together around the same time. But I would describe my style as elevated as I'm gonna say expensive. Like I just love my girls to look really bougie and expensive. I do a little dance.
Beth Wilson:I am obsessed with that. Yeah. You guys Canditt say this, but I was just like, yes. I was like clicking. I was vibing, cuz I just love that because like I have to say Alex, like you look expensive all the time. I look like an absolute troll right now. And you are like here with like the sleek hair and the Gorge makeup. And like, you, you always look that way, like so polished. And that is so true. That is what your girls look like. That is what your clients look like. Like, so bougie, so Lux, like just
Alex Perrin:Yeah. Lux
Beth Wilson:I love.
Alex Perrin:Yeah. Expensive skin. Like I always yell about that, but it's, it's an actual thing. Like it's just, it's just, yeah. It's not overdoing it. Like, I feel like I am very versatile. I have clients that come to me that say, I don't wanna wear any foundation. And I'm like, right, well, I need to work with that. And then I've got girls that are like, I want, you know, three sets of lashes. I think it also, that is a re a really valuable thing as well. It's just to versatility is important, but also knowing what. are known for like what people, why people are booking you and what it is that they're after. Cuz they ultimately see what your work is like and that's why they're booking you. So it's, it's definitely being aware of what your signature is, what you're known for, why people are coming to you, but then also being able to make, you know, your clients will comfortable. If it's not, if there's something that's not resonating or you know, they, yeah. They don't wanna wear foundation on their wedding day or whatever it may be.
Beth Wilson:I'm just like obsessed with this. What did you just say was an expensive skin. I'm like, we need to chat about this offline or
Alex Perrin:I love that.
Beth Wilson:episode about how to do expensive skin, because I want that, that is so wild, but I mean, look, it does come through on your Instagram and it kind of is a perfect segue into my next question, because you have worked with so many celebs and like high profile people here in Australia. Um, You know, just take amazing, amazing stuff. And recently you had a next level celebrity experience, and you have told this story on your Instagram, but I just have to hear it directly from you because recently Kyle Richards, and if you don't know who that is for anyone listening, I would be first of all, shocked, but Kyle Richards is the OG real housewife of Beverly Hills. She's been in every single episode since it ed and she recently came to Sydney and Alex, you worked with her for the entire week or so that she was here. So first of all, how did she find you and what was that like? Like what happened? Give us a tea
Alex Perrin:Like what is going on? How did it go?
Beth Wilson:what's happening. Yeah.
Alex Perrin:So Kyle, yeah, it's sort of, it's a bit mind blowing because you hear about these stories of like how Kylie GENI found her makeup artist, Ariel. And it was literally through a hashtag search on Instagram. And it's the weirdest thing, because I'm, , I've been manifesting an opportunity like this for a really long time. I was always like, how am I gonna tap into the celebrity, like celebrity clientele from overseas? And I was literally like, Instagram is the only way that that could happen. So Kyle had never come to Australia. So first trip here and she was explaining to me that her and her artist, Pamela sat down and they literally searched through Instagram hashtags, and they came across my Instagram page and she was like, yeah, that's the one. So she literally DMed me off her own account. And I went into my
Beth Wilson:Oh, so one day, Hey God, sorry. Stop. Stop. Stop. One day you woke up and you had a DM from Kyle Richards verified.
Alex Perrin:Yeah, that's
Beth Wilson:is
Alex Perrin:I swear. It's actually
Beth Wilson:oh my God.
Alex Perrin:Um, so she had DMed me and she, she just asked me, are you available for these dates? I'm coming to Sydney. I would love for you to do my makeup. Let me know if you're available. So I was like, what is going on? Like I am, I, I had to like go on her profile to like, make sure it was her. I was like, what's going on? Mind you. I'm not a huge, like, I don't watch a lot of TV if I'm being completely honest. I don't watch a lot of TV. I don't watch a lot of series. I don't like, I just don't have time for it. And I'm not really., I don't know. I've just never really been a TV kind of person. Like there's just other things that I would rather spend my time doing. So I kind of had to like piece this entire situation together and I spoke to one of my best friends about it. And he was like, this is huge. Like, you don't understand the magnitude of this situation right now. And I was downplaying it. Like, I didn't say anything to anyone. Like I literally did not tell a single soul because first of all, I was like, I just wanna make sure that this is actually happening because I don't like to put things out there into the universe until it's like set in stone, locked in, like at the end of the day, it's my integrity as well. Like, you know, when you say you're gonna do something and then it's, it doesn't happen. You're kind of, you know, I just
Beth Wilson:I know, and you know what, sometimes there's like, there's nothing worse than like something really exciting happening and say you're like 80% of the way there. Like it's gonna happen. And then at the last minute something goes wrong and then you've gotta kind of undo it all and be like, sorry, sorry guys. It's actually not happening. Like how yuck. That's just a yucky feeling.
Alex Perrin:Yeah, exactly. So I, I, I tend to do, I'm quite private with a lot of things in general. So with that, I was kind of like, I'm just not gonna say anything to anyone. Like, you know, no one really knew about it until it was happening. So she actually DMed me and then we confirmed that everything was all good to go. And the producers then contacted me through Hayu and then off we went, everything was locked in. It was really interesting. Cause I wasn't nervous. I don't know what it, I don't know what it was if it was just, you know, because I'm quite a confident person. I like to think. I am like, especially when it comes to my work, I know my worth, I know what I bring to the table. I love what I do. And at the end of the day, I focus more about the experience that I have with people rather than the actual work itself. So when I'm on a job, I'm focusing on them and having a good time. Like what's the point if you're not having fun, you know? And I think that level of. You know, someone that is dealing with people all the time and working with, you know, makeup artists and hairstylists, and they're, they're friends with everyone in Beverly Hills. Like they're like literally in the thick of it. I think if you are so nervous and you're all, you know, you're frozen and , you're not really having a good time. It's like, they almost question your capabilities and they don't really trust you. I just went in there doing me. And we clicked from literally the get go. She was so chill. She was like, in her little hotel rogue, we walked in and we set up and I was like, let's get the music going. Like, do you want music? And she's like, yeah, music. So I was like, get the music on and off. We went like her husband Mariso was there. We, we were all just like, you know, having a nice time and, and just, I, I obviously wanted to like, be prepared. And to make her feel like she was really looked after and just that elevated experience and, you know, just being a professional and knowing what I'm doing. So I went through her Instagram page and, you know, screenshotted, my favorite looks that she's done. So I, you know, pulled that up and I said, right, Kyle, like, what are we doing? What's the vibe? What are you wearing? These are my favorite looks that you've done. Like, do you want to do something completely different? Do you want to channel that sort of, you know, look or do you, do you wanna just leave it to me? And she said, look, she just looked at me. And she was like, I I'm just gonna leave this up to you. So it was this initial connection straightaway away. There was a level of trust straight away. And I was like, this is the best. So I just did what I, what I thought and a few things I was checking in on the way I did, I did a normal consultation with her, like I would with every other client. And she did not pick a mirror up once the entire time. and she said to me, at the end of the first day, she goes, by the way, I am never like this. She goes, I've always got a mirror close by and I always check throughout the makeup what's going on. And she goes, I don't know what it is, but I just, I really trust you.. And I think that also comes down to not only me having a really great connection with her, her trusting me, but how I was presented. She looked at me and was like, you've got it together. She looked at me, I had my makeup done. I was dressed nicely. That's a really important part of the experience. If you aren't representing yourself in a certain way. And at the end of the day, it's your branding. So I'm always, always done. It doesn't matter what time of the day it is. I'm rocking up in an outfit. I've got my hair done. My makeup is done. Like it's a look good, feel, good situation. So if I'm not feeling good, how am I gonna make you look, feel, and feel. You know, and they love it. They love when you rock up and they're like, you are put together. They almost like don't understand how you're so well put together at that time of day, you know, it's the whole thing. So I always say to people like it's
Beth Wilson:We've all got questions about how you can look this good all day, every day. We've all got questions about that, but do go on. No,
Alex Perrin:but yeah, no, she, she just trusted me and, and yeah, she was like, I love it off we go. And then, you know, we, we were attached by the hip for the three days. So we went from, you know, the interviews from channel seven to channel nine to then like, you know, the radio interviews. And we had lunch together. Like we were literally. With each other for the three days straight. So it was really fun. Like we, we had a really great time and I really love her as a human. Like we, we got to learn each other about each other's lives and you know, just what's going on and what's happened. And you know, just the reality she's at the end of the day, she's a human being just like everyone else. So with celebrities and working with high profile people, they just want to feel like a normal person. So if you are in their presence and you're shitting bricks, they're like, this is like, what's what are we doing?, you know,
Beth Wilson:Oh, my God.
Alex Perrin:they, they feel, then they feel like they Canditt, they Canditt connect with you. They're kind of just like, I am superior to you. So like, what's the, you know, I'm just gonna mind my own business.
Beth Wilson:I'm one of these people like this is, oh my God. I'm just about to like out myself so badly, but like, I I'm like a starstruck type of person. Like I will get starstruck and like, I would really have to reign it in if that were to ever to happen to me. But like, it just sounds like you were so cool carbon collect in and obviously that's gonna make a huge difference. Cause you're so right. Like they do just wanna be treated like people, but like, so does anyone and like, this is just like blowing my mind, this idea of like branding and showing up in a certain way for not just Kyle or any other celebrity, but like everyone, like that's the experience for everyone.
Alex Perrin:Absolutely. And I feel like it's something that you are then known as people just know that. Yeah, you're on, you're on another. Like you're in another caliber. Like I hear, I hear about people tell me all the time, like photographers will turn up to a wedding and they obviously arrive much later. Like they arrive in the Mor in the morning, much later and they see how, you know, many people that are doing hair and makeup present themselves in the morning. And cuz we starting at, you know, four in the morning or sometimes earlier, sometimes a bit later, but they say like, Alex, you're always so well put together. Like you always have your makeup done. You're always presenting yourself like bang on. And we see girls turning up in active wear or like track pants and they're hair in a topknot with no makeup on. And it's that is your branding. That is you showing up to a job. Like how do you, like, how, how can you be charging premium rates and you know, telling your clients that I'm gonna be bringing a premium experience. It is a luxury experience. Not everyone gets their makeup done every day. So you need to bring your a game. Like there's no other way around it for me. And. I guess it comes down to also, yeah. Like I love that. I, how I feel when I, you know, when I've got myself put together, so that's an energy shift as well. So if I'm vibing, I'm feeling good, you know, that's, that's gonna then, you know, people, people can feel that they can feel that.
Beth Wilson:Yeah, for sure. I think definitely it's like, if you put effort into yourself, you show up as a different person. Like in that day, like I know even for me, something as simple as like, if I go out for a coffee and I don't have any makeup on, or if I'm in my active world or whatever, like being lazy, I will feel like one version of myself. Or if I'm like, no, I'm gonna put in effort. I'm gonna like put makeup on, even though I'm just going down the street for a coffee, whatever, I feel like a different version. That's like, and it's kind of cooked when you think about it, but it's like, you know, I'm more, I don't know, just like better I can't describe it any other way. Like, you know, even like, Sometimes, you know, like, I'll go to work. Like I work in an office a couple days a week doing social media things with other girls. And like, one of them said to me last week, cause I've always got my makeup done. I've always got my hair done. She said to me, she's like, ah, is there a day where like, you just won't look that good? And I'm like, no SIS, not when I'm coming to work. Like, do you know what I mean? Like, it just makes you a better version of yourself.
Alex Perrin:Well, yeah, I think it just, again, it comes down to, yeah, just, just you wanting to put your best foot forward. If, if that is something that makes you feel good, I'm not saying that everyone needs to put on makeup every day to feel good. I still feel confident without makeup on don't get me wrong. Like I'm, I'm more than happy to not, you know, rock up with full glam and whatnot. But I think time and place for certain things, you know, if you are a makeup artist and you are rocking up to a job with no makeup on. Like, I just, I don't see that as aspirational from the other end, if I was your client, I would wanna look at you and be like, I love this vibe. I love how your makeup looks. That's why I've booked you. That's why you're here. And that's why I'm paying you. So I want to feel what whatever's going on there. I want to feel like that. So that's why it's, it is such a, you know, I, I think it's a really important part of your branding and yeah, just how you present yourself is really important. So yeah.
Beth Wilson:Well, this is a unexpected delight, sh delightful nugget of wisdom because I truly, Alex, I'm gonna, I'm gonna be honest with you. I've never really thought about branding as a makeup artist. Until we've had this conversation. And I think that this is something worth, worth, everyone having a good, like, good think about how do you wanna present yourself? What do you want your brand to be not just your work to be, because that will attract people as well. But before we kind of wrap things up, I think that this is a good segue because we're kind of talking about energy and vibes here as well. And so I do wanna talk to you a bit about mindset because, you know, as we know this industry can be like super challenging. It can be Savage, it can be competitive and all this sort of thing. And I've seen on your Instagram. So not only did I scroll all the way through your feed, but I looked at every single story on like your Q and A's cuz you've got Q and a is highlighted on your Instagram stories and you share a lot about how you keep like a positive mindset and energy and all this sort of thing and how you work really hard to practice gratitude. And I'm just curious to know, like what role do you think that, that, you know, has on your success? Like what role has that played.
Alex Perrin:So with mindset, this, this is relevant for anyone. You know, I think as people, we all wake up with the choice of how we want to feel every day and in any given situation or any like set of circumstances. So that is your own power. And I think that will, you know, ultimately determine how your life plays out. So if you are carrying a negative mindset and you aren't like living, you know, your life to the full potential, then I don't know. I think that that's a domino effect on everything else. So I do, I do have such a, you know, Heavy. Like, I, I definitely focus a lot on my, on my mindset and, you know, self development and self growth. Yeah. It just it's, it's played a huge part in my business and who I am now as well. Like the person that I am now and what I bring to the table with, with my work and the experience that I offer. Yeah. I think just how you see the world is, you know, in having that positivity and the energy that you put out that is it's, it's the law of attraction, isn't it? You know, so that what you're putting out is what you're gonna get back, you know?
Beth Wilson:Yeah, for sure. It's, it's interesting that you say that because. Listening to, I wish I could remember his surname. His name is Hugh, and he has a thing called the resilience project. He's got a book and it's kind of about gratitude and things like that. And he said a really simple thing that you can do to kind of shift your mindset and it will change your attitude towards the day is instead of saying, oh my God, I have to go, blah, blah, blah. You would say, I get to go, blah, blah, blah. I have to go to work on this Saturday morning and I have to wake up so early. It's like, no, you get to wake up so early because you get to go like see the clients. And it's just funny, cuz like I listened to him, say this, I think at some point last week he was on another podcast I listened to and I actually stopped myself every time I heard myself say I have to blah, blah, blah. I would change it. I'm just curious. Are there any kind of like tangible tips or things that you do to make sure that you stay in that kind of positive lane that you could share with everybody?
Alex Perrin:Well, I think, yeah, like practicing gratitude and, and just having perspective as well. So just, just looking at what you have in your life. Not necessarily. Things, but just, you know, I have an amazing support network. I've got a beautiful family. I have amazing friends. I'm living my dream job. I have two beautiful dogs, like just looking at your life with fresh eyes and being grateful for that, for what you have and not focusing on what you don't have. That that's a huge thing because I think, yeah, it just, it just allows you to, to stay really, you know, humble and appreciative of, of the things that are in your life. And it goes just back to basics. Doesn't it? I think, you know, touching on perspective, I've gone through a hell of a journey in my life, in my personal life, you know, and I think. when things happen to you. It's it's, this hasn't happened to me. It's happened for me. So how I see the world now is very different to how I saw it. You know, when things were in a really dark place and I was, I was going through a really tough time in my life. So, you know, saying I have a choice of how I feel every day. It's, it's so true because I could have absolutely gone down the other path of, you know, playing the victim and, you know, saying that it's all too hard. I just, you know, I there's, I can't see, you know, can't get past this, you know, this challenge in my life. So having, having the mindset and also like celebrating the wins. I think resilience is a really big thing as well. Just like yeah. Celebrating those wins that you do have when you do get through, you know, a situation or a set of circumstances, and then being able to look at the positive out of every situation that happens. So, you know, something terrible could happen to you, but it's your outlook on, on the experience that ultimately can change the entire scenario. So that is like game changer for me, you know, I think that's, it's something that you, it definitely takes practice and it's not something that people can pick up overnight. But I learned that from a really, really young age, when, you know, I did kind of go through a lot of like hideous experiences in a really small period of time. Like really life changing shifts that I just kind of had to make it work. I just, I was, you know, young and I just had to figure it all out and there was no way around it. And I, I think. Having that strength, the resilience and yeah, just having a really great support network around you allows you to have, you know, a really great mindset and, and see things differently. So, yeah. I don't know if that makes sense, but , that
Beth Wilson:It makes so much, it makes so much sense. And I just, yeah, like thank you for, for sharing that. I think sometimes we need to like have that reminder, you know, that we can. Get through really difficult times. And also I think it's like nice to share it, to be honest, like to be like, look like I have this amazing life that you see now, like, and this is something you've also talked about on your Instagram stories, right? Like you've kind of got what appears to be from the outside, like a very glamorous lifestyle and, you know, the, the celebrity clients and the gorgeous makeup and like, you are a very beautiful person too, you know? And it's like, we need to take a step back sometimes and be like, all right, well that, you know, Instagram can be like an insane highlight reel. And like, people might not know like what your experiences were like when you are going through that dark phase. And like, to just take a step back for a minute, never compare yourself to others, but also just, you know, stay grounded.
Alex Perrin:Yeah, absolutely. I think, yeah, staying grounded and staying true to who you are, is super, super important. This industry, you, you can absolutely get swept up in it and think. It can be led with ego a lot of the time as well, which I try not to get, you know, sucked into, I think I can kind of, you know, yeah. Remain really, really solid and level-headed, and, and grounded. Like, that's definitely something that I pride myself on and I've worked really hard to be, but at the end of the day, I just, you know, it's, it's, it comes down to just me and, you know, my integrity at the end of the day, you know, when I'm not around anymore, I want people to remember me as, you know, a really genuine good person. It's not, oh, she, she had this and she, you know, went there and she was working with that person. It was, you know, Alex was actually a really, really great human. She was a great girl. She's fun. She had a great energy, you know, she made people feel amazing and like, that's what I wanna be remembered for. You know, there's nothing else really to it for me. It's, it's, that's, that's what I aspire for. So yeah, I think it's just a different way to look at things. You're getting emotional, babe.
Beth Wilson:I am I haven't got teary in the podcast in a long time. I just think that that's really beautiful and it's really important. Like, I'm just gonna be super honest, like recently, like I think it, because it's the first time in like two years, we have been dealing with it, but like everyone's in Europe. Right. And it's like, you're just seeing it like constantly. And like, everyone's like doing these bougie things and like living life and all this sort of stuff, but it's just like, sometimes it just gets like so draining and like recently, like, I, I love 'em to death, but I've been like muting certain accounts because I'm like, I just can't handle this right now. Like, and I just think you're so right. Like none of that matters at the end of the day. And you know, it's all about, you know, what we like, what we leave behind or the impression we give people or how we make them feel. I just think that that's so beautiful and like something that we don't talk about. Yeah.
Alex Perrin:I think, you know,
Beth Wilson:Oh, you got me.
Alex Perrin:Yeah. Going back to, you know, comparison as well. That's like the biggest thief of joy. So I, like, I used to compare myself to, you know, other people when I was, when I wasn't super self-aware and I had, I kind of hadn't tapped into the journey, you know, my, my journey of growth as a person, I would always look at other people and be like, oh my gosh, she's so beautiful. Or, you know, she's got this or they're doing that. They're here. And I'm not, I was like miserable with that, you know, just living my life like that. So you kind of, you can get swept up in that, especially with social media, but I think at the end of the day, like what you, you just need to be really focused on your yourself, your own journey. No one is the same. No, one's no one's process at all. Journey is the same. So just having that, that clear vision of, of what your. Greater purpose is what your drive is being motivated. And yeah, just like doing your best because at the end of the day, like as long as you are doing your best, that's all that matters. Like my mom used to always say that to me, she's like, that's all you can do if you know, in yourself that you've done your best, doesn't matter. Like you've given it a hundred percent. So like, yeah. The comparison thing, it, honestly, it really is a thief of your joy and your, your happiness, cuz everyone's reality is different. Everyone's lives are different. You have no idea what everyone's, you know, the story behind what's happened to, to a person. So, you know, just being empathic and treating people as equals and just being like a good person, like at the end of the day, like people, people can recognize that it's the energy that you give out. So I think that's also played a really big part in not only, you know, my own, my, my life and my reality, the people that are in my life, but absolutely with the clients that I'm, I'm dealing with at the end of the day, they just wanna know that you have pure intentions. That's something that I'm massive on. Like, I, I just, I think it's so important. It's not, it's very rare these days to find people that genuinely want the best for you. Like it's so rare people that are being genuine people and how they're treating you, but also genuine to themselves. So like, you know, just, yeah. Staying true to yourself. Yeah. It's, it's so important. It's so, so important.
Beth Wilson:So important. And you know what, I usually end the show by kind of asking and, you know, my guess, like, what is the one piece of advice that you would give to an aspiring artist, but I don't really think it gets much better than that. It's like what you said, you know, your mom used to say to you, it's like, you gotta do your best, like do your best. And that's all you can do,
Alex Perrin:That's all you can do.
Beth Wilson:that's a really, really beautiful thing. That's all you can do. And I just like truly Alex, like from the bottom of my heart, like thank you so much for sharing and for sharing your story with me and with all the listeners, I know, like, just based on how I'm feeling right now, they're all gonna feel like super inspired and just like touch, like, you know, it's not super often that I will talk to, you know, Just people who are like, so in touch with all of that, like not just on the show, but like in, in all aspects of my life. And it's just really nice to have that conversation. So thank you so much.
Alex Perrin:Thank you, Beth. I'm so glad. I, yeah, I, I, I feel really, really grateful that you asked me to do this with you, and that we've had such an amazing conversation because I feel like a lot of these things aren't spoken about much and they're not really a focus. Especially in our industry. I think people kind of really look at the surface level stuff, but there's so much more to, you know, to everything as you know, us as people and, and the kind of experiences that we wanna create for our clients and the business that you can build based on, you know, those things alone. So, no, I really appreciate it. Thank you.
Beth Wilson:Absolutely. And just in case on the absolute bare minimum chance, cuz I don't believe it could be true, but if somebody isn't following you or don't know where to find you, where can they grab you on social media?
Alex Perrin:So my Instagram, which is my name, Alex paren, and then M MUA and I do have TikTok, but I'm, , I feel like I'm still, I'm still working on it. TikTok is like another whole world for me. I'm like, I'm trying, but you know, we're not
Beth Wilson:Well, I tell you what, it's not the, it's not the Behind the Brush curse, but it's like the Behind the Brush gift that everyone says this to me. When they come on the show, like I've had ballerina bride to Neil, penny will come on and be like, oh, talk's not the place. And then next minute, they're like thriving on TikTok. So maybe this will be my gift to you that you'll like suddenly explode on TikTok, but you do not
Alex Perrin:chewing.
Beth Wilson:help exploding. You are a true artist. You are such a great human being. Thank you so much.
Alex Perrin:Thank you, Beth.
Beth Wilson:Ooh, Alex really got me there for a second guys. She saw me like literally welling up and like trying to kind of , you know, when you're like starting to like tear off and you're like, get back in those eyes. No tears. Oh my God. So like, I record the podcast with all of my guests. It's not on zoom, but it's like a platform similar to zoom. And I thought, nah, surely with like computer recording quality, there's no way she's gonna see me doing that, but I was wrong, but really like, wow. I was just so moved by her honesty and vulnerability and her story, like I said, in the top of this episode, like there's so much, I wanna talk to her about that. I just couldn't even possibly fit into the space of the show. And like, she's a very, very special person. Like when I tell you like, part of the reason why I love following her is because you can just tell like, There's no bullshit like this humility and you know, the positive mindset and manifestation, all this stuff. It's no bullshit from her. Like it's not performative. She means it and she lives it and she breathes it. And it just radiates through everything that she does. Like in case you can't tell, I've got a massive girl crash and I'm like searching flights to Sydney so that I can just make an excuse to go see her. I am so grateful that she shared with us and she hasn't really been on a show like this before. So it was really a privilege to facilitate that, not just for myself, because it's something that I'm gonna remember, but for all of you, so here are my top two takeaways from our chat with Alex. Number one, don't lose sight of what matters. This one is obviously just as much a general piece of life advice as it is a piece of advice for us in the beauty industry. As artists, there are a lot of shiny distractions that we deal with on a daily basis that might distract us from why we started doing this in the first place. And I am the first one to put my hand up and say, I have definitely like fallen victim to that before social media and the way that it's kind of like trained our brains, not to sound like a conspiracy theorist , but it makes us obsess over follow account and like compare our follow account to like somebody else similar and be like, oh shit. Like they've like, they've, you know, got ahead of me quickly. How did they do that? And then, you know, you look at who's doing what jobs and why wasn't I booked on that job and who's on what PR list and why aren't I on that PR list? And like, they've got all this stuff in their kit and I don't have it in my kit. And like they're being invited to big beauty events and all this stuff. And obviously that's a lot of comparison, but it's also like, you don't need to be on a PR list to have great stuff in your kit. You can buy it yourself or you don't need to have. Every single thing in your kid be like super Lux or high end. Like we know that we can make it work with a mix. If you're not quite there yet, all this crap just bogs us down. Always try to remember why did you become an artist in the first place and focus on that first number two presentation matters. And you are your brand. I am telling you guys, this one absolutely blew my mind, but the way you present yourself at a job is a representation, not just of you as a person, but of your business. I am absolutely not saying that you have to show up for work every day in full glam or really bogie clothes and like. If you are one of the people who has run into me at Chad center or anywhere else, like, you know, like I am the first person to walk around the street, looking like an absolute troll and active wear all the time, but it is worth noting, right. That Alex's brand is premium and it's luxurious. And that might be something that you're aspiring to be as well. She is a celebrity artist and she dresses like a celebrity artist. Like I was just thinking about it. It's like, you know, if Kylie, Jenn, like a lot of like, let's just like for a second, like a lot of celebrity makeup artists, like I'm just gonna use the Kardashians as an example. Like you can't imagine seeing somebody with like a messy top knot and like track. So pants in the background of a Kylie gen glam shot. Can you like it just, it just makes sense. And like, look again, I'm gonna be the first one to put my hand up and say, as we were having that conversation, I was thinking to myself, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck. I have definitely shown up to a job before. Looking like absolute hell. And my excuse says, well, I had
to be there at like 5:00 AM, but like, how did that make them see me? I don't know. It's just worth thinking about like, I don't know. It's just some food for thought. It was kind of obvious, but I never thought about it before. So it's something that I'm definitely going to be evaluating. But anyway, thank you guys so much. Once again, for listening to the show, it was a longer episode today, but it was worth every single minute. I just, I can't even wait to listen back to this one. Of course, if you wanna stay up to date in the meantime before the next episode drops in two weeks from today, Instagram at, by Saint Jack Cosmetics. That's B Y Saint Jack, or if you wanna follow my artistry account and it's at Beth Wilson underscore MUA on Instagram and TU, but until then, I'll see you on the next one. Bye.