We had the good fortune of connecting with Juan Autrey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Juan, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have diverse interests, and when something captivates me, I delve into it wholeheartedly, ensuring a thorough understanding. Despite my career in the medical field, I discovered a profound passion for beauty. Attending cosmetology school and obtaining my license exposed me to various aspects, with makeup emerging as my primary fascination.

Recognizing the potential for growth and income, I decided to turn this passion into a business. Transitioning from a hobby to a professional service, I embraced the opportunity to share my makeup skills and establish J. Autrey Beauty.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is an expression of my unwavering passion for beauty and creativity. What distinguishes my approach is the meticulous personalization of each makeup application, tailored to enhance the unique features and skin type of every client. I take immense pride in elevating my clients’ natural beauty without compromising their authentic identity.

Navigating the journey to where I am today has been a continuous blend of dedication and overcoming challenges. The path wasn’t always smooth, and it still presents ongoing hurdles. These challenges, however, fuel my perseverance and commitment to improvement. Each obstacle teaches me resilience and underscores the importance of adaptability in the ever-evolving beauty industry.

What excites me most is the tapestry of unique stories woven through my clients’ faces. Each face tells a different tale, and I cherish the opportunity to contribute to their individual narratives. J. Autrey Beauty is more than a makeup service; it’s a journey of self-expression and empowerment, built on a foundation of trust, creativity, and genuine connections with those I serve.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that my story is one of continual growth, fueled by an unyielding passion. Beauty, for me, is a powerful form of art that transcends the surface and has the transformative ability to uplift.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Downtown Adventure

• Breakfast at Wolfgang’s Restaurant.
• Explore Downtown Grand Rapids and local shops.
• Have dinner and enjoy a late-night Latin dance at Taco Borracho.

Day 2: Brunch and Culture

• Brunch at Social Misfits.
• Visit the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
• Enjoy sushi for dinner at Ginza.

Day 3: Nightlife and Parks

• Brunch at Morning Belle.
• Visit local parks or the John Ball Zoo in the afternoon.
• Experience nightlife at Rumors Nightclub or Stella’s Lounge.

Day 4: Grand Rapids Exploration

• Start the day with breakfast at Real Food Cafe.
• Go shopping at Woodland Mall, Rivertown Crossing, and Tanger Outlet.
• Have dinner at The Green Well.

Day 5: Culinary and Fun

• Brunch at San Chez A Tapas Bistro.
• Catch a movie and grab frozen yogurt at Studio Park.
• Try fowling at the Fowling Warehouse.
• End the week with a fine dining experience at Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant.

While this itinerary could use some refinement, I believe it provides travelers with a solid foundation for things to do in Grand Rapids.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Numerous individuals have played significant roles in my life, and I want to express my gratitude.

First and foremost, a heartfelt shout-out to my family – my rock-solid mom, Juanita, my dad, Cleveland, my unwavering sister, Ebony, and my siblings Che’toya, Terri, Eric, and twin Cleveland. Much love extends to my extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Special mentions go to my partner, Sean, my love; Kenney, my ultimate best friend and confidant; Cecily, my lifelong sister and ace; and Crystal, with whom exciting ventures await.

Gratitude extends to my god mother, Janet Maxwell, Brenda, Osbe, Justin, Garrett, Grandma Phyllis, Tamika, Christal, Ciara, Ashley, Jordan, Colleen, Andre, Tunisha, Taylor, Jonaca, Tyler, Kewanda, LaDynah, Jamilah, TaCoya, Kalena, Mallory, Fawn, Kaedry, Elidey, Kayla, Carolina, Rhonda, Bryanna, Laurial, Jeffery, Adriel, LaWayne, Marissa, Corrie, Miki, Cierra, Erica, Ebony, Shaloria, Winter, Paul, Byron, Ramona, Nick (RIP), and the cities of Detroit and Grand Rapids.

I draw inspiration from Brandy Norwood, Reggie Wells, Sam Fine, Eric Forman, AJ Crimson, Kevyn Aucoin, and the vibrant city of New York.

To those I may have missed, it’s a lapse of memory, not a lack of appreciation.

Website: https://jautreyservices.square.site/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jautreybeauty

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/jautreybeauty

Other: My personal Instagram is https://www.instagram.com/juanautrey

Image Credits
Nancy Toledo Jimenez, TINK, Tunisha Mason

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