I used to work in the cosmetics industry (make up artist, fashion stylist) before I had kids and I had some pretty high-profile clients. Now, I’m the mother of a 12-year-old girl and recently I gave one of her friends a “make over.” I thought the girl looked glamorous and classy not TRASHY, but her mother freaked out!
I didn’t apologize at the time because it’s make-up. It washes off! So, what’s the big deal? But now the mom is talking crap about me up at the middle school and saying I “vamped up”* (Editor’s note this is the cleaner version of the word that was in the letter) her daughter? How do I shut this down?
Signed, Hating the Suburbs
Dear Hating,
I think something more maybe going on here. Because I’m with you make up washes off so really why the whole going cray thing? BUT this mom may have a no make up rule till 16. Every family is different. For example, I was not allowed to get my ears pierced till I was an adult.
It could even be the mom thought that the make up made her 12-year-old looked older and she didn’t like the visual. Now, if photos of the girl were posted to social media I can see a parent going full mama bear because hello a picture of her sweet little girl looking 20 something is out there circulating.
I feel your best bet is to apologize to the mom. Tell her you had no idea she would get upset and that you were just showing your daughter and her’s some makeup techniques. Then in the future I would stay clear of doing any make overs on minors unless you have the moms permission because that’s the kind of world we live in today
*If you have a question for Dear Snarky 21st Advice With An Attitude please email me at snarkyinthesuburbs@gmail.com or leave me a private message on my Snarky Facebook page.
Snarky in the Suburbs 