Mia “MiMi J” Johnson has successfully positioned herself as an accomplished artist, brand influencer and beauty professional. She’s worked on shows such as Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta and VH1′s Love and Hip Hop Atlanta, and has worked with celebs such as Kenya Moore, Angela Simmons, Toya Wright, and more. Her work has been featured in various magazine/blogs such as Essence, Runway, Sister 2 Sister, Juicy, and Jezebel. She’s successfully launched two businesses; P3 Lab and Beat & Snatched and has one more on the way; The Glamatory.

I had the pleasure of speaking with celebrity makeup artist Mimi J earlier this fall. I still remember sitting inside my car with the seat pushed back, laptop in my lap, and Chipotle beside me as we spoke. Her sweet spirit and joy literally jumped through the phone. I had been dying to interview her and every single second of the wait was worth it. Mimi J is talented, beautiful, inspiring, and easy to relate to.

How and when did you get your start as a celebrity makeup artist? 

M: My first celebrity I painted was Melyssa Ford for a small magazine. I still to this day do not call myself a celebrity makeup artist. It is an accomplishment that celebrities want me to do their makeup, but I still I enjoy doing makeup on everyday women. I am now working consistently with Kenya Moore on the Real Housewives of Atlanta and cast members of Love and Hip Hop Atlanta. Most of my opportunities have come via word of mouth publicity.

What words of wisdom do you have for aspiring makeup artists? 

M: Of course you want to have the skill. I am confident in my makeup skills but I will never stop learning. You should never stop learning. There is always something that you can do better. Your professionalism and brand will carry you. I have built a reputation of professionalism and positivity. I am always on time and always smiling. Building positive relationships will move you to the top.

What has been your greatest career accomplishment thus far? 

M: I think my greatest accomplishment thus far has been seeing myself working on television. I was on air doing Kenya Moore’s makeup for The Real Housewives of Atlanta, which was the first time I saw myself on television. Ironically, it was the first time I met Kenya.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years? 

M: Giving back will always be a part of who I am. I see myself as a Beauty correspondent on E or another media outlet. I eventually would like to become a beauty specialist, create a line of products, and more. I want to expand outside of my title of “makeup artist.” In the near future I’m opening up a glamorous retail space and makeup studio called The Glamatory in Atlanta Spring 2015!

I am a Kansas City native just like yourself and many of my readers.

What was the adjustment like moving to Atlanta, Georgia? Do you have any tips? 

M: Stay humble. Also understand that you can always go back home, but you’ll never know where you’ll go if you don’t leave the nest. Lastly, if I have an idea and it makes sense to me, then I am going for it.

What products do you recommend for college students who want to have a flawless face while on campus, but use minimal product? 

M: Loreal is a great brand. Milani has great cover lines. Shea Moisture has a new natural line that works great. Black Opal has amazing foundation. Try out different drug store brands to see what works best for you.

Who do you aspire to be professionally? 

M:  Though I truly admire Oprah and her influence, I really want to be a female version of Diddy! He’s done any and everything that he’s wanted to do. He’s always working, but at the same time he enjoys life. It’s all what you put your mind too. I am taking the steps now to build my brand now.

Mimi J thank you very much for taking the time out to speak with me and share your knowledge with my readers. We wish you much more success and victories!