Connect
http://www.advancedmineralmakeup.com
http://www.twitter.com/advancedmineral
Education
Allure Beauty School - Esthetician + Cosmetologist + Trainer
Annie Mayo had made it to the big time as a makeup artist. Working in feature films, print ads, sporting events and even the Miss Universe Pageant, Annie believed not only in what she did, but also in the products she used to perfect famous faces.
“I always believed in the products, or I wouldn't have represented them. However, I always felt there was room for improvement in women’s makeup.” So Annie, who prides herself on matching words to action, developed her own line of natural mineral makeup and cosmetics to deliver the quality she was looking for: Advanced Mineral Makeup.
Now, Annie is not only bringing quality products to movie stars and pageant queens, but women at large. It’s a success Annie owes to having “the tenacity to put the work in that will enable you to get to that dream.”
Don’t expect other people to make your dream come true.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the beauty industry?
Ever since I was a little girl, I read Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and numerous other beauty magazines. I knew every line, every fragrance and every beauty brand.
My mom also played an important role in my developing an affinity to makeup. I watched her do her makeup all the time. I thought it was fascinating.
What does your job involve, and what types of responsibilities do you have in your position?
I’m the owner of my company, Advanced Mineral Makeup. I’m head of operations, product development, packaging, ordering and more.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My two favorite parts about my job are product development and seeing a new product coming to the market, plus the satisfaction clients get from using the product. To know that it’s being well-received and that other people love it is so fulfilling.
What challenges keep you awake at night?
The biggest challenge for me is when I come out with a new product, I already know I love it -- I just hope everyone else loves it, too.
Is work/life balance ever a problem with you? If so, what is one no-fail tactic you use to create balance?
I tell myself that everything will get done within a timely manner. I know what my abilities are, what I’m capable of and what comes first.
Was there ever a moment in your career where you’ve thought, “I made it!” What was it?
For my business, it would be winning the Day Spa Readers Choice Award. Just knowing that people love my makeup was a great feeling. Also, getting my name out there and being called year after year to do makeup for television, film and commercials. The fact that people were coming to me, instead of me trying to promote myself, meant that I was doing something right.
What are some of the rules you live by?
When I commit to doing something, I back it up. Saying something, doing it and actually matching my words to my actions is important to me.
Be tenacious. Never give up and always have faith in yourself that you can do whatever you set your mind to.
Writing down goals. For me, if I don’t write goals down on a piece of paper, it’s only a wish. I write it down and check them off. As soon as I accomplish a goal, I'll set another goal for myself.
Having grace and being with my family always inspires me.
What qualities does it take for someone to be successful in your line of work?
Perseverance. You need to tell yourself, “There are so many brands of makeup out there. Why is someone going to pick my brand?” You should be able to answer that question with confidence. For me, when people buy into my line, they are essentially trusting me and having the faith that I've created a great product and offer the best customer service.
What one piece of advice do you wish you could tell a 21-year-old version of yourself?
I would say believe in yourself and never give up on your dream. Have the tenacity to put the work in that will enable you to get to that dream. Don’t expect other people to make your dream come true.
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
I see myself being very successful, growing my company and having a large customer base. I see things visually in my head and think, “This is going to happen.” I never say, “I can’t.”