Check Out Jessica Sweet’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Sweet.  

Hi Jessica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
Coming out of New York, my passion for fashion was permanently embedded in me. I’ve always had the heart for modeling, makeup, and designer wear. From at-home runway shows in my living room to creating the greatest of all-time designer dress from curtains to getting into my mom’s makeup. Though growing up, art was all I had. About 4 years ago, my past came back to bite me. Everything bit of strength I thought I had was gone. I was living in a constant reminder that I was born a drug baby; I was on the brink of being murdered, spending my entire childhood in hospital rooms, attempting to understand the life of a terminally ill parent, then losing that parent, a multitude of rapes, being drugged, physically assaulted, self-harm and suicides. I became an alcoholic and a drug addict. I was falling apart, and my will to live fell deeper. I had zero intentions to do anything other than drink the good juice and snort the sugar. After withering away for a couple years, I met my now brother and good friend who helped to get me clean. Then not too long following that, I met another good friend who helped me get sober and made me see my passion for art was burning brighter than ever. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It was never smooth. Never. I kept every mirror and everything with a reflection covered in my house because I couldn’t stand looking at myself. I couldn’t face the monster I turned myself into. I was constantly angry; I was mean, and I was cold to everyone. You know the saying that goes “She has a short fuse”? That was an understatement with me. I didn’t care who I hurt, just as long as they knew not to talk to me because I was a bad person. It stemmed from feeling worthless and knowing I wasn’t good enough for anything or anyone. No one stayed, people purposely hurt me, they didn’t care what happened to me, I had no one in my corner. I recall a time when I spoke to this random woman while I was out getting coffee, she started talking about depression, and she asked me “When it’s your time, who will weep at your tombstone the longest?” Because I had to think about it for a second, all she said was, “I’m sorry. Just know that I will because you deserve to be loved and missed when you’re gone.” That really stuck with me, and it reminded me that I have a soul that will last a lifetime, and I have a voice, and I’m going to make my voice heard. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a professional model and makeup artist; I specialize in all forms of modeling and all forms of makeup, excluding SFX. I’m talented, but I’m not that talented. I’ve done so many things, from acting to music, to what I do now to even faking my own death. I push the boundaries and make risky moves all in the name of art because there’s beauty in dark places. There’s a constant light shining through the darkness and my art projects that. I create these beautiful centerpieces of illustrations because I’m proud of everything I’ve done. Simply because I created it. I never thought I’d make it this far in my work field, but I did. I did, and I’m loving every second of it, and I know all of my Sweet Things (my fan base) loves it too. 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I’ve had to learn so many, but the biggest one I had I learn was to never give up. In every sense, regardless of how I felt, I had to keep fighting and keep pushing. I knew, and I know I have potential, and this is where my heart is, and this is where I belong. If you love something, and you truly love it, fight for it. Keep pushing for it, and your hard work will pay off. One of the many lessons I learned from Mr. Alice Cooper. 

Pricing:

• Photoshoot: $100 for 2 hours
• Makeup Session: $60 for 2-hour session (goes up by the 10s when hours added on)

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicasweetjss/

Image Credits
Jessica Sweet Team