Today we’d like to introduce you to Toi “Honeychile” Wagner.
Hi Toi “Honeychile” , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Whew! What a ride! I got my start as a professional makeup artist by chance. As a child on up into my younger 20’s I had every intention of becoming a singer songwriter and honestly was well on my way however the birth of my daughter warranted a life change that essentially shifted my career goals and allowed me to dig further back for a passion I didn’t realize I had. Ebony and Jet magazines filled my home and I would always marvel at how gorgeous these very glamorous yet relatable women were. My mom spent time in the bathroom primping, blushing and puckering and that also amazed me to the highest degree. She literally transformed from my mom to an even more beautiful woman starting her day. It was almost like you could see the confidence emerge as she took her last look in the mirror. I didn’t know what that was, I just knew I wanted some of it.
It started out as just a hobby, tinkering here, sprinkling there. Occasionally putting on a little makeup for practice landed me my first Artist gig for a wedding. Evening out the skintone, mascara and blush were just about all I could do back then. Honestly it was all that was necessary to complete a look on someone. Now, there are ins and outs of makeup that really requires practice time and skills. Perfecting my own face surprisingly is where I struggled. I credit that to pressure and the relentless need to be perfect but when I made up other faces, it seemed more easy. More matter of fact. I’ve traveled, worked with some amazing canvases. Jazmine Sullivan and Shay Johnson of Love and hip hop Miami to name a few but there are a hosts or women, just like me. Hard working, everyday extraordinary women that sit in my chair. All nationalities, races, backgrounds etc. There is no face left behind in my opinion and experience.
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?
When I started over 25 years ago, there was not the luxury of social media. Everything was word of mouth and referrals. Everything you learn comes from experience, triumphs and fails. Now a quick Instagram or Facebook post speaks volumes for a business. This is fine, but what happens is old school passion can be driven by monetary gain and social notoriety. In turn, social media is the best friend of a professional makeup artist such as myself. There is a light that is instantly shined on you and your business at the touch of a button, flick of your wrist and swipe of the finger. I struggled with the now easy accessibility of the a Makeup Artist. At one point it was a very exclusive line of work that not everyone had access to or could do..
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in beautifying women with the art of makeup artistry. Enhancing and beautifying women from the outside in.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
People are really surprised to know that I’m originally from Chicago and that I was born with an identical twin sister.
Contact Info:
- Email: Gotblushxoxo@gmail.com
- Website: https://gotblushmakeup.square.site
- Instagram: $honeychile81
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toi.wagner
Image Credits
Marcus Devine Shay Johnson Jazmine Sullivan Kierra Sheard – Kelly Nicole Ashley Allen Studios
