Meet Shawna Vassallo | Professional Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shawna Vassallo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shawna, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Hi! Being a business owner is not for the weak haha. Work life balance is HARD but it has also been so rewarding. I would not be where I am today in my career if it wasn’t for the hustling and the genuine fulfillment. With that being said, creating a work-life balance has been a little challenging. I knew being a freelance makeup artist was going to take a lot of my time especially on the weekends. Sacrificing weekends made it hard to catch up with my family and friends who have the typical M-F 9-5. I am very blessed to have such an amazing support system that understands my crazy schedule and work hours. Thankfully I have gotten to the point in my career where I can take time off and go on family vacations and attend events. Advise I would give a business owner on how to deal with work-life balance is to set a boundaries. Put the phone away and be present. Something that has helped me is turning off my Instagram and email notifications and setting time during the week to answer emails, check social media etc… Its hard to not look at your emails when you’re out with your friends on a Saturday! Everyone’s balance might look different to others in this industry but setting business hours for myself has helped tremendously.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career started with the artistry. I wanted to be an art teacher before I was a makeup artist. I quickly learned about special effects makeup. I went to school in manhatten and had amazing job opportunities in the makeup industry since then and I was instantly inlove with this line of work. I moved to Nashville with my two best friends for no reason other than we were sick with living with out parents. I had no idea what the future held for me here. I am so eternally greatful for the people I have met here and the opportunities I have had. Something I would share with your community is to never stop believing in yourself and if you want it bad enough success will follow. And have dang fun!! Do something your proud of because life is too short not too!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I mean Broadway DUH! There is so much life and music on Broadway so I would definitely recommend going up and down Broadway and NOT staying at one spot. Nashville always has something going on- concerts, festivals, games, artist rounds you name it. Some places I always recommend eating at is Blanco on fifth and Broadway, Martins BBQ for some good southern BBQ, a lot of hotels have amazing rooftops. There is something new in Nashville popping up everyday so finding something to do is very easy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to shout out my parents. They never have doubted my path even though it might’ve sounded juvenile. They have always believed in me and never shamed me or made me feel less than. If it wasn’t for their support I don’t know if I would be where I am at in my career and let alone in Nashville. I owe it all to them!

Website: www.makeupbyshawnavassallo.com

Instagram: makeupby_shawnavassallo

Image Credits
Cast Collection, Diana King, Emma Manning