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

Hi Cait, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always been a creative person. Even as a child, I went above and beyond in all my art & music classes. My job is not the same day to day. I can look at each client and service in a different way and come up with a solution that works best for them. When I’m able to view each person as an individual I can create a solution for their problems. This brings me joy and a sense of accomplishment a standard job cannot bring me.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am the owner of 1921 FX studio. We are a skincare and makeup studio. We have 3 customizable facials, and do makeup for all events. Including weddings, photo shoots, tv/film, and Halloween Special FX. I started off in the business as a Special FX Makeup Artist for films, commercials, and music videos. I absolutely loved being on set but living in Michigan, I needed to find a way to fill my time in between films. I decided to start working in a salon as a wedding makeup artist and esthetician.
I learned so much working in the salon, but I wanted to take my esthetician business to the next level. I became an in-house esthetician for a plastic surgeon. However, working a more traditional 9-5 office job was not my cup of tea. I really wanted more of a challenge. During the pandemic, I began planning how to open my own studio.
I spent a lot of nights and weekends working on my business plan, building my website and purchasing product. I also spent weeks walking around cities trying to find the perfect place to open my studio. And when I say walking, I really mean walking. I would look at every building, see if there was a sign or open slot on a sign and I called all of them.
Owning my own business has been a whirlwind. But has been the most rewarding experience. I wish at the beginning I would have partnerships with other businesses like I do now. That is one thing that has helped my business to grow is partnering with others. One is example is I work with a photographer who does boudoir and weddings. I am her makeup artist for the boudoir shoots, and we both share our information with future brides.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a big fan of supporting local businesses, and places. We would be starting at Canterbury Village and visiting 4th Cost Hard Cider. I love a good boutique, LouLous Boutique in Lake Orion has the cutest clothes, and Essences on Main in Clarkston has amazing wine, and cute gifts and decor. We would also go to the Fed in Clarkston for dinner and drinks. Coffee is a must. I love relaxing at Honchos, and walking around Depot Park.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents have a huge part in my success. My dad owned his own business. I learned how to sell, treat customers, and manage a company from him. My mom was technical illustrator. She is who I got my creative gene from. She taught me everything I know about art, and how to think outside the box.

Website: www.1921fxstudio.com

Instagram: Cait.1921fxstudio

Image Credits
Julia Cuddy Photography

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