A Beautiful Career Change

“After pursuing a career as an accountant, I got laid off during an economic downturn,” Sarah recalls. This setback became a catalyst for change. “I took that opportunity to reflect on what type of career I really wanted.”

Sarah had always been passionate about makeup and beauty. She realized her ideal career would involve making people happy and wouldn’t confine her to a desk. With newfound clarity, she made a bold decision and headed back to school for a career switch.

Building a Beauty Business as a Jewish Makeup Artist

Transitioning from accounting to makeup artistry wasn’t instantaneous. “After going back to school for makeup and hairstyling, it took me a little while to take the leap to become a makeup artist full time,” Sarah explains.

Despite relocating a few times, Sarah’s commitment to excellence has remained steadfast. “Since the beginning of my hair and makeup career, I have set out to bring the best quality services along with excellent customer service,” she states proudly.

The Joy of Making Clients Beautiful

For Sarah, the most gratifying aspect of being a Jewish makeup artist is the positive impact she has on her clients. “I love truly making my clients feel beautiful and happy,” she says. “I love being a part of people’s special days, and I try my best to create a calm and warm environment for the experience.”

She also cherishes the opportunity to connect with new people regularly, especially within the Jewish community. “Meeting so many new people on a regular basis is also amazing,” Sarah adds.

Overcoming Challenges as a Jewish Makeup Artist

Sarah’s career path hasn’t been without hurdles. “I began my career in New York and have since moved to Israel and then back to Chicago,” she shares. “Starting over twice has been a challenge and requires hard work to build up clientele and customers.”

Despite these setbacks, Sarah’s passion for her work as a Jewish makeup artist has kept her motivated and determined to succeed.

Balancing Work and Personal Life

As a self-employed Jewish makeup artist, Sarah appreciates the flexibility her career offers. “The beauty of being self-employed is that you can make your own schedule,” she explains. “If at any point you feel that you need more time for your personal life, you can dial down your workload.”

However, Sarah’s enthusiasm for her work sometimes makes it difficult to step back. “The struggle is that I truly love working in the bridal industry, and I never want to turn down any clients,” she admits with a laugh.

A Unique Perspective as an Orthodox Jewish Makeup Artist

Sarah’s background has significantly influenced her approach to work and life. “I grew up in a somewhat close-minded Orthodox community,” she reveals. “It took me a while to develop my creative side and allow it to have a voice.”

Her experience at makeup school in New York was transformative. “Going to makeup school in New York was a very eye-opening experience for me; it was the first time in my life that I was in a non-Jewish environment,” Sarah reflects. This exposure to diversity has influenced her work as a Jewish makeup artist, allowing her to blend her Orthodox background with her creative pursuits.

Advice for Aspiring Jewish Makeup Artists

For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Sarah offers this advice: “Never stop learning and practicing and pushing yourself! But always remember, the basics of makeup and hairstyling will always prevail. Spend 95% of your time perfecting the basics and the other 5% to learn and have fun with the trends.”

Looking to the Future

As Sarah looks ahead, she balances ambitious professional goals with personal aspirations. “My main goal is to stay sane while running multiple businesses and raising a family and running a household!” she says. Professionally, she dreams of expanding her services: “It would be amazing to travel to provide hair/makeup services for a bridal party!”

But at the core of it all is her love for what she does as a Jewish makeup artist. “The real goal is to have as many weddings booked as possible because I really, really, really love what I do!”

Sarah Appel’s journey from accountant to sought-after Jewish makeup artist is a testament to the power of following one’s passion. Her story reminds us that sometimes, unexpected changes can lead us to where we’re meant to be.

To book Sarah for your wedding or to learn more about her services as a Jewish makeup artist, reach out via email at sarahappel@gmail.com or connect with her on Instagram.

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I’m Eliana, a wedding photographer who specializes in Jewish weddings! You can learn more about me here. I would love to chat about photography needs for your special day!