Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Paige Searle.
Hi Lauren Paige, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have always been an outspoken rebel girl. Even at a young age, I remember feeling different from those around me and always having this edge and clarity that helped me see things through. Drawn to visual and audio stimulation. I loved the arts, fashion, and music. I tried so many different mediums, playing the drums, art class, singing, acting etc., but nothing stuck for me. I also was very connected to my humanity, I am empathetic, highly-sensitive, and a deep feeler, and I love to help other people. I love animals and the Earth. I was and still am a go-to friend and mentor.
When I was young I was introduced to the world of cosmetics and I was completely inspired by the artistic ability to bring color and life to someone’s face through shadows, paints, blushes and different textures. There was a specific person at the MAC counter who would always do my makeup for special events and I loved having fun with colors and seeing the transformations so much so I knew I wanted to be like him when I grew up and that’s exactly what I did! As a teen, I subscribed to W Mag and saw all the amazing artistic Fashion and Beauty editorials and I felt like I wanted to accomplish something like that. so, I pursued Makeup as a career.
I became certified in Utah and moved down to Florida where I began pursuing my goals. Found the opportunity to work on music festivals and stage performers which was a blast as someone who loves music! Somewhere in the midst of that, I was scouted by some of the best hairstylists in the world who I started working with regularly & it was them who inspired me to move to NYC if I wanted to pursue my fashion dreams and I took their advice seriously. I landed in NYC with no plan just a desire to make it work and I did, I had the opportunity to assist some of the best artists in the world! I worked on Fashion shows, landed Magazine Editorials, and more! I was living my DREAMS! NYC taught me so much about how to tap into my personal power, strength and courage and my spirit grew exponentially there. I made so many friends and had a blast living that chapter of my life out.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No! I have been faced with many challenges. Beginning with Mental health which has been huge for me in my journey. At a young age, I was faced with many difficulties that would lead me into treatment, therapy and other forms of healing. This was really my inspiration for Guide Your Way. I never wanted people to feel alone or face their struggles alone because I knew how that felt.
In the fashion world things are not always glamourous like they present. There were times I struggled to pay my bills due to to the lack of laws in place protecting freelancers. I had struggled to get the work I needed to sustain myself. Any freelancer knows there are ebbs and flows with work and you have to hang on tight when the days are slow. Some of the dynamics of fashion & the industry as a whole didn’t sit right with me which led me to being more of an advocate in the industry for all creatives and standing up for what’s right.
I have faced many physical health problems and challenges which I’m still facing. This has brought me to many detours and life pivots. I’ve had to learn the lesson on balance many times and I’m currently working on healing myself out of some physical ailments. Another reason why I love to help people is because again, we shouldn’t have to face our mental or physical pain alone. We need support in this life and we need community to carry us when the burden is to much to bear on our own.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a Makeup Artist I’m proud that I specialize In ALL skin tones and textures. This is very important to know as an artist and it takes time to learn. It’s a skill. I specifically find myself in Fashion Spaces, Runway Shows, Editorial, Music videos, Special events, and Performance Makeup. I LOVE music so I have worked many Music Festivals doing Performance Makeup for Artists and Dancers. It’s been a blast! Now and again I love to do Bridal makeup for my friends getting married. The most important thing to me when working with my clients is making sure they feel like the best version on themselves. Not everyone likes to get made up the same so it’s important to listen to people’s needs and tailor their service to match their desires.
When covid came, Makeup was not much needed because we all had to stay indoors. I had the chance to shift things in my life and start a new chapter which is where I created one of my side businesses called Guide Your Way. I consult with people and help them find solutions to their challenges. Whether it’s looking for a therapist, resources or any other helpful tools that could help them with their personal growth and achieve their goals. Now that the world is back and running I have the opportunity to move between both of these worlds and I love the balance that’s provided for me. It’s been truly fulfilling living in both of these worlds and tending to my creative and caring sides.
What matters most to you?
Making a difference in this world and speaking up!! Speaking up is huge for me. Learning how to self-advocate and navigate life’s challenges with dignity and grace is huge. I care about this planet and the humans! Sustainable life & business practices. Being Resourceful. I care about health care and making sure everyone gets both the physical and mental health care they need to make it through. Respecting nature, giving people love, and breathing life into their existence. Making sure people know how special and important they are and reminding them of their personal powers.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/guideyourway
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenps
- Other: www.LPSMUA.com
