Gagan Chohan
- Sophie Garth
- Nov 21, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 26, 2024
Gagan Cohan, the creative force behind Raza Beauty, is a hair and makeup artist whose journey has been marked by her determination and passionate pursuit of her craft.
Bridal Beauty and Prestigious Awards
Based in Hamilton, Gagan is known for her expertise in blending traditional South Asian bridal aesthetics with a contemporary twist. Gagan's story is one of remarkable resilience and unshakeable self-belief. After gaining a teaching degree, she then embarked on a full-time corporate career while using her weekends to establish her reputation as a makeup artist. This year, Gagan's dedication paid off, as she clinched two prestigious awards at The Wedding Industry Awards.
Navigating Work and Motherhood
Gagan candidly shared her postpartum journey back into the workforce. With bridal season in full swing and the support of her family, she has successfully returned to work, deftly balancing her role as a mother and a businesswoman. As the demand for her services grows, so does her ability to manage the challenges of being both an entrepreneur and a caretaker.
Globe-Trotting Artist with Local Roots
With a base in Hamilton, New Zealand, Gagan not only caters to the local community but also has plans to expand internationally. Her journey began five years ago when there was a distinct lack of Indian makeup artists in Hamilton—a gap she courageously filled. Since then, she has honed her skills and expanded her portfolio, now specialising in South Asian bridal beauty.
The Art of Entrepreneurship and Networking
Despite her success, Gagan's career path wasn't always clear-cut. With a background in the corporate world, she embraced her creative pursuits and learned to market and network her talents. Word-of-mouth has proven to be a potent tool for her business, reflecting the exceptional quality of her work.
Evolution of Bridal Beauty in New Zealand
Gagan also elaborated on the differences in makeup styles among brides, noting a trend towards more glam looks even in Kiwi bridal beauty. Her approach seeks to strike a balance between intensity and elegance, crafting a signature style that has been embraced by clients.
Mindset and Gratitude: Pillars of Success
At the core of her successful career lies a powerful mindset and a deep sense of gratitude. Gagan emphasises the importance of celebrating milestones, whether big or small, and being disciplined in balancing the demands of motherhood with the rigors of entrepreneurship.
Our delightful chat with Gagan Chauhan left us inspired and hopeful for the evolution of the New Zealand makeup industry. Her journey exemplifies the power of passion, resilience, and community—an example for all aspiring artists and entrepreneurs in Aotearoa and beyond.
Contact Gagan
If you enjoyed this episode or have suggestions for future guests, please reach out or leave us a review. Your support and feedback help us continue to illuminate the stories of New Zealand's beauty industry trailblazers.