Clareabelles
Hi, I'm Clare Morgan, founder and owner of my business Clareabelles. Makeup Artist based in Walsall, West Midlands, UK.
Clareabelles Story
After completing various A-Level courses at college and a short (unsuccessful) stint at University, in 2011 thanks to my old school friend Sarah, I finally found a subject that filled me with genuine excitement. I qualified with my Level 3 Diploma in ‘Theatrical, Special Effects, Media Hair & Make up’ the following year.
After qualifying I again felt slightly lost in life, I applied for the Selfridges MAC Makeup counter to no avail, so I continued working my part-time ‘student job’ in the fast food industry. For 3 more years I enjoyed living the party lifestyle and spent time travelling around Turkey. In March 2015 I met my current partner and my life started to settled down.
A new chapter beginning I sought a new ‘grown up’ job, landing a new career placed on a conveyor-belt in a factory warehouse, oh yes, how thrilling are?! As a creative person the monotonous 9 hour shifts on the factory floor wore on my soul, so I quit my role only a few months in, assuming I’d get another job ‘like a piece of cake’ without delay. Famous last words. After my many applications were rejected, funds slowly depleting, I had to admit defeat, give up and phone the ‘dreaded’ Job Centre. Who would of thought that this was actually the beginning of something amazing?! Not me, not at that time.
Nigel my job centre coach was fantastic, a truly lovely guy. Monitoring me for a few weeks apply unenthusiastically for some different carer roles, during one appointment he asked me ‘What do you want to do Clare? What qualifications do you have?’. Learning I had my Diploma in Makeup Nigel suggested I apply for a new program the government were trialing called the ‘New Enterprise Allowance’ scheme. I was happy to be Nigel’s guinea-pig for this new scheme, with guidance I drew up a business plan, was sent on some training courses and eventually set up the basics for a business.
Still slightly lacking in confidence, one day whilst sourcing products I happened to meet a lovely couple Andy & Lisa, who also ran their own small business. I asked them for some advice and I'll always remember Andy saying "Just go for it and see what happens!'' ... so I did and the rest is history! With support and encouragement from my friends and family (and of course a little financial backing from good'ole Mom & Dad!) I launched Clareabelles in December 2015 and have been growing and expanding my skills, knowledge and experience ever since!
Now at the age of 30, my life is great! I think my passion and enjoyment in my work really shines through for my customers. All those years of struggle were well worth it for the sense of pleasure and fulfillment I get from my job now.