The makeup artist and cosmetics entrepreneur Trish Mcevoy talks to 35 Thousand about how she’s maintaining her business and managing her health in these turbulent times
Tell us about your work…
“I am the founder and CEO of Trish McEvoy Beauty. I started my career in New York City as a makeup artist, launching my own line of skincare, makeup, and brushes in 1975. To this day, I run my business out of our New York office on East 57th Street where I work with my fabulous team; some of whom have been with me for 35+ years.
My favorite part about my work is the way that I am able to interact with people and make them feel good. My brand’s mission is to help demystify beauty in order to help women and men feel their most confident. Being able to help others in that way has truly been a blessing.”
What’s your context outside of work (do you have family, pets, where do you live, hobbies, and commitments)?
“Despite living in Manhattan for so many years, it will never lose its magic touch for me. I spend much of my time outside of work continuing to explore the city. I love walking my dogs in Central Park and catching up with friends over dinner at local restaurants, both new and old. Outside of New York, I love to travel. London is among one of my favorite cities. I can’t wait to go back.”
What is your normal day-to-day life like?
“No two days are alike, however if I had to describe it, I’d say it starts with a scroll through Instagram. I absolutely love using Instagram for inspiration. People share the most amazing things and I love being able to share what I find with my team. We meet daily at 9 am to review any and all inspiration for the day before diving into upcoming tasks, meetings and events. After a busy day of meetings and calls, I unwind by staying active. Whether it be a walk with the dogs or a run on the treadmill, I find it helps me to clear my head.”
What’s your day-to-day life like now currently during COVID-19?
“I am so fortunate to say that it hasn’t changed much, aside from the fact that I now do everything from my apartment. Our team has quickly adapted to Zoom meetings and we still kick the day off with inspirational pieces, whether it be a post from Instagram or a song to help lift our spirits.
In terms of staying active, that’s gone virtual, too! I do virtual workout classes with 305 Fitness and Bandier.“
How has it impacted you personally and professionally? What are you finding challenging?
“There isn’t one person in the world that this hasn’t effected both personally and professionally. I feel so blessed to have my health, family, friends, and business, but there certainly have been obstacles.
As I mentioned earlier, I love the human interaction of my job. While Zoom is a fabulous way to stay in touch with friends and colleagues, it isn’t quite the same, as I’m sure so many can relate.”
Where are you finding hope and optimism?
“As I mentioned, I love the sense of community that Instagram brings. I’ve found countless people—such as Kirsty Godso and Tanya Zuckerbrot via Instagram who bring such positivity and light to a dark situation. Having this time at home has also helped me find new music, which truly helps to set the mood. I absolutely adore Dua Lipa. Her song “Physical” is my go-to for an instant pick-me-up. I love to run on the treadmill while I listen! I’m also a fan of Maluma, a Colombian singer a friend of mine introduced me to.”
What do you miss about life before COVID-19 that you never thought you would?
“Truthfully, I’m not shocked by what I miss. I miss it all and can’t wait to be out exploring the world again.”
How are you getting through?
“When faced with uncertainty, my biggest piece of advice is to recognize how you are feeling and allow yourself to feel that way. Even if what you are feeling is uncomfortable, it’s important to take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to relax into that feeling.
Once I allow for that to happen, I sit down, write out my plan for the day to give myself some structure. Then, I have my sense of purpose for the day and can physically cross things off my list, which truly allows for a sense of peace. When I need to go deeper, I will write out what I am feeling in my journal or FaceTime someone that will uplift the mood that I’m in. It’s so important to remember we are all in this together, and more often than not, others close to you are feeling the same.”
What is your mindset about how to use your time at home (Hustle harder with newfound time, be still and soak up the gift of time, dive into unexplored creative pursuits?)
“It’s made me stay motivated. I work with my team tirelessly to brainstorm new ways to engage with our community and to think of ways that we can help be their source of hope and optimism.”
