Rising Stars: Meet Jameeah Stevenson of Raleigh

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jameeah Stevenson

Hi Jameeah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2013, my journey as a makeup artist began. At the time, I was a college student at the University of Cincinnati, majoring in business management with a concentration in finance. While academics had always come naturally to me in high school, college was a different challenge. It felt as though something was missing—a spark that aligned with my passions.

That year, UC’s renowned DAAP program (College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning) held its annual fashion show. This show featured professional models on a high-caliber runway, and I noticed posters around campus seeking “makeup artist assistants.” The concept of solo MUAs wasn’t even a trend yet, but something about the opportunity spoke to me.

Though I had only done makeup on myself and friends, I signed up. The day before the show, I scrambled to overnight makeup products, brushes, and tools for every skin tone I could imagine. I stepped into the backstage chaos like a pro—even though I had no idea what I was doing. To my surprise, instead of assisting with small tasks, I found myself doing back-to-back makeup on professional models of every ethnicity. By the end of the day, I was worn out but had been named one of the lead MUAs for the show.

I didn’t stay to watch the show, but one of the models, Candice Crenshaw, left a lasting impression. After sitting in my chair, she began calling me weekly to do her makeup. She insisted on paying me, and when I hesitated, she said words that changed my perspective forever:

“This is more than a hobby. It is your craft. You have to respect it as that. You’re giving me a service. People have to pay you for your service. Don’t downplay that. God put that gift in your hand. Use it. Let it make room for you.”

Candice became my first client, and from that moment, I began to build my brand. Over the years, I honed my skills, collaborated with other artists, and established FACE IT BY J in Cincinnati. After marrying and relocating to North Carolina, I had to start over in a city where no one knew me. Shortly after moving, I decided to take my passion to the next level by attending the Aveda Institute. There, I earned my esthetic license, which deepened my knowledge of skincare and elevated the artistry I bring to my clients.

Now, FACE IT BY J has become recognized across my community. It still humbles me every time someone mentions my work or my name in passing. This growth inspired me to launch The Suite Essentials Collective (TSEC), a team offering a range of services beyond makeup artistry to enhance life’s most special moments.

God has been faithful throughout this journey. He gave me this vision and continues to expand it. I am endlessly grateful for His guidance and for the opportunity to use my gift to touch lives.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not always! The journey has been filled with challenges that shaped me and my business into what it is today.

One of the biggest struggles was learning to charge my worth. In the beginning, I undervalued my services because I doubted whether I was truly “good enough.” I had to overcome that mindset and realize that what I offer is not just a skill, but a craft and a service that deserves respect and fair compensation.

Another challenge was starting over from scratch when I moved to North Carolina. Leaving behind the success and recognition I had built in Cincinnati was humbling. No one knew me here, so I had to rebuild my brand and reputation step by step, proving myself all over again. It tested my resilience, but it also showed me how much passion and grit I have for what I do.

Lastly, I struggled with comparing my journey to others. Watching peers who started in this industry long after me reach milestones faster was tough. It was easy to feel like I was falling behind. But I’ve learned that comparison steals joy, and I’ve embraced the fact that my path is my own. God’s timing for me is perfect, and my growth—both personally and professionally—has been steady and purposeful.

These struggles have taught me patience, self-worth, and the power of perseverance, and I’m grateful for every lesson they’ve brought.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the founder and lead makeup artist of FACE IT BY J, where I specialize in creating tailored, flawless looks for clients of all backgrounds and occasions. My focus is on enhancing natural beauty, with an emphasis on bridal makeup and special events. My artistry goes beyond simply applying makeup—it’s about creating an experience that leaves my clients feeling confident, radiant, and empowered.

The name FACE IT BY J carries deep meaning and serves as the foundation of my brand’s mission. FACE is an acronym for “FEARLESS AUTHORITY CALMS EVERYTHING.” This mission is at the heart of everything I do. When a woman feels fearless, her energy shifts—she carries herself with a presence that demands respect and exudes confidence. That authority is calming, not only to herself but to everyone she encounters. My goal is to help my clients embody that feeling, so they step into any space with grace, assurance, and power.

What sets me apart is this approach to beauty. It’s more than just makeup—it’s a mindset. I connect deeply with my clients, listening to their stories, understanding their needs, and creating looks that align with their unique personalities and visions.

I am most proud of the trust my clients place in me and the impact I’ve had on their most special moments. From being recognized for my work in my community to launching The Suite Essentials Collective (TSEC)—a team offering a multiplicity of bridal and event services—I am grateful to see the ways my brand has grown and expanded.

Ultimately, what distinguishes FACE IT BY J is the combination of artistry, intentionality, and empowerment. I aim to ensure every client walks away not only looking beautiful but also feeling fearless, confident, and ready to take up space.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
I have two, Skating with my father and siblings every Thursday night and drawing as a child in my room every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://faceitbyj.as.me/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faceitbyj
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/the_suiteco