Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiera Williams.
Hi Tiera, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey in the beauty industry in September 2017, but makeup was not originally part of my career plan. At the time, I was a plus-size model learning how to do my own makeup for photoshoots. The more I practiced, the more I fell in love with the creativity and transformation behind it. I became so passionate that I would sit in front of the mirror and practice almost every day.
Social media played a huge role in the beginning of my career. I regularly hosted live videos where I taught makeup techniques, shared what I was learning and connected with other beauty lovers. Some of those videos went viral, which helped people discover my talent and encouraged me to take makeup more seriously.
After leaving my day job, I took a leap of faith and became a full-time, self-taught makeup artist. The transition felt natural because my older cousin, Danni, invited me to become the Master Makeup Artist at Truly Urs Nail Salon in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, in 2018. That opportunity gave me a place to develop my artistry, build relationships with clients and gain more exposure throughout Metro Detroit and on social media.
Over the years, I have become known for my warm personality, creativity and versatility. I believe makeup is personal, so every client who sits in my chair receives an experience created specifically for them. No two appointments are exactly alike because no two people are exactly alike. Whether a client wants something soft and sultry, natural and polished, or bold and colorful, my goal is always to listen, connect with them and exceed their expectations.
My versatility and online presence have led to recognition from major beauty and fashion brands, including Maybelline, NYX Cosmetics, Black Radiance, Beauty Bakerie, Huda Beauty, KAYALI, Fashion Nova, YSL and many others. Those moments were especially meaningful because I built my career without traditional beauty-school training. Everything I learned came through practice, consistency, research and being willing to grow publicly.
One of the biggest moments of my career came when my community nominated me for Detroit’s Favorite Makeup Artist through the Detroit Choice Awards. In September 2023, six years after beginning my journey, I received the award for Detroit’s Favorite MUA. Standing on that stage and knowing that the people I had serviced, inspired and connected with were responsible for getting me there was an unforgettable blessing.
Today, I continue to operate my beauty brand, DolledByDimpss, as a full-time makeup artist in Metro Detroit. I recently opened a new chapter of my business at Luxury Beauty Lab in Eastpointe, where I continue servicing clients and creating personalized beauty experiences in my private makeup suite/studio. I have also expanded beyond appointments into education, digital content creation and influencer work. What began with makeup tutorials has grown into a platform where I share beauty, business, food, lifestyle and encouragement with a community of thousands.
I am passionate about using my platform to create opportunities and bring people together. Whether I am teaching another artist, helping a client feel beautiful, sharing what I have learned about social media or creating networking spaces for local creators, I want my work to make people feel seen, inspired and capable.
My journey has not always been easy. Building a business, raising my son and continuing to reinvent myself has required faith, sacrifice and resilience. However, I am a walking testimony that when God gives you a vision, He will also provide what you need to carry it out. I share my story to motivate other people, especially self-taught creatives, mothers and Black women—to trust their gifts and continue working toward the life they envision.
I am extremely grateful for every client, family member, friend and supporter who has poured into me throughout this journey. Their support has helped me turn something I once practiced for fun into a career, a brand and a purpose much bigger than I originally imagined.
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, it definitely has not been a smooth road. One of my biggest challenges has been navigating the fluctuations in income that come with entrepreneurship. Some months are extremely successful, while others require me to stretch, adjust and trust that business will pick back up. Being a full-time business owner and a single mother adds another layer because I am responsible for providing stability for both my son and myself, even when business is unpredictable.
There have been seasons when I questioned whether I was doing enough, especially while balancing clients, motherhood, content creation and the everyday responsibilities of running a business. I have had to learn how to keep showing up during slower periods, adapt when things change and avoid measuring my entire journey by one difficult season.
My faith has carried me through every challenge. I truly believe that when you have God, He will restore what was lost and provide exactly what you need at the right time. Every setback has taught me something, strengthened me and reminded me why I started. The road has not been easy, but it has made me more resilient, resourceful and grateful for every opportunity.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a self-taught makeup artist, beauty entrepreneur and content creator based in Metro Detroit. Through my brand, DolledByDimpss, I specialize in creating personalized makeup experiences that enhance each client’s individual beauty. My work ranges from soft, natural and sultry looks to bold, colorful and creative artistry. I also service bridal parties, teach makeup techniques and use social media to educate, entertain and inspire my audience.
I am most known for my versatility, warm personality and the genuine connection I build with my clients. I do not believe in giving everyone the same face. I take the time to understand each person’s features, style, comfort level and vision so that every appointment feels personal. My clients are not only coming to have their makeup done—they are coming for an experience where they can feel comfortable, celebrated and confident.
What sets me apart is my ability to combine artistry with personality and storytelling. Social media has allowed me to turn my creativity into more than a traditional beauty business. I have expanded into beauty, food and lifestyle content, brand collaborations and creating opportunities for other local creators to connect. No matter which area I am working in, my goal is always to create something memorable and make people feel seen.
I am most proud of building a successful career from something I originally taught myself for photoshoots. Being recognized by major beauty brands and winning Detroit’s Favorite MUA at the 2023 Detroit Choice Awards were both incredible accomplishments. However, I am equally proud that I have remained consistent, continued evolving and created a career that allows me to provide for my son while inspiring other women, mothers and self-taught creatives to believe in their own gifts.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something that may surprise people is that makeup is only one part of what I do. I am also a beauty educator, digital content creator, food reviewer and community connector. I have grown an online audience by sharing not only my artistry, but also my personality, experiences, recommendations and knowledge about social media.
I am passionate about creating opportunities for other people, especially local creatives in Detroit. I recently organized my first influencer networking experience, bringing food creators together to connect, collaborate and build genuine relationships while supporting a local restaurant.
Most people see the finished makeup looks, viral content and accomplishments, but they may not realize how many different roles I manage behind the scenes. I handle the artistry, bookings, customer service, marketing, content creation and brand partnerships while also raising my son as a single mother. My creativity goes far beyond makeup, and I am proud that I have continued finding new ways to use my gifts, build community and expand my brand.
Pricing:
- Standard Full Face Makeup — $100-$130
- VIP Makeup Service — $150
- Bridal Makeup — $150
- Bridesmaid Makeup — $130
- Private Makeup Lessons — starting at $425
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dolledbydimpss.as.me
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/dolledbydimpss
