Drag is more than an art form—it’s a business. If you’re just starting out in drag, it’s important to realize that being a drag artist is a lot like being an entrepreneur. You are your product, and your brand is what makes you stand out in a growing and competitive industry. Here’s what you need to know about the business side of drag and how to start turning your passion into profit.
Building Your Brand
At the heart of every successful drag artist is a strong, recognizable brand. Think about what makes you unique. Are you a glamorous diva, a campy queen, or a conceptual artist who pushes boundaries? Your brand should reflect your personality, talents, and values.
- Name and Persona: Choose a drag name that’s memorable and aligns with your aesthetic. Develop a persona that is consistent across all your performances and online presence.
- Visual Identity: Your look, makeup style, costumes, and even the fonts and colors you use in your promotional materials should all tell the same story.
- Message: What do you stand for? Drag artists like Pattie Gonia combine drag with activism, using their platform to advocate for environmentalism. Finding a niche that combines drag with your other passions can set you apart.
Monetizing Your Drag Career
Drag offers many avenues for making money. Here are some of the most common (and creative) ways to earn income as a drag artist:
- Performances: This is the most traditional route. Perform at bars, clubs, and private events. As you gain experience, you can increase your rates.
- Competitions: Many drag artists start by competing in drag pageants or contests, which often come with cash prizes and opportunities for exposure.
- Influencing: Build a social media following and partner with brands for sponsored content. Many drag artists collaborate with makeup, fashion, and wig companies.
- Teaching: Share your skills through workshops, online courses, or one-on-one coaching. You’d be surprised how many people want to learn drag basics like makeup, performance, and persona development.
- Collaborations: Work with other organizations to promote their brands. This could include hosting events, starring in campaigns, or even designing custom merchandise.
- Merchandising: Sell branded products like T-shirts, pins, or even digital content like tutorials and performance videos.
Standing Out in a Competitive Industry
With drag becoming more mainstream, competition is fiercer than ever. To succeed, you need to find your niche. Ask yourself:
- What do I love outside of drag? Can I combine that with my drag persona?
- What skills do I have that other drag artists might not?
- What’s a gap in the market that I can fill?
For example, if you’re a fitness enthusiast, you could create drag fitness content. If you love crafting, you might design custom costumes or accessories for other performers.
The Hustle: What It Takes
Running your drag career as a business requires planning, organization, and persistence:
- Set Goals: How much do you want to earn in your first year? Break that down into monthly or even weekly targets.
- Budget Wisely: Drag can be expensive. Track your spending on costumes, wigs, makeup, and travel to ensure you’re staying profitable.
- Promote Yourself: Use social media, create a professional website, and network with other artists and event organizers.
- Evolve: Stay on top of trends and adapt your performances and branding to keep your audience engaged.
Resources to Get Started
- Books and Articles:
- “Workin’ It! RuPaul’s Guide to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Style” offers insight into RuPaul’s business journey.
- Check out blogs and forums like Reddit’s r/Drag for tips and inspiration.
- Courses and Workshops: Many platforms offer lessons on performance, makeup, and branding. Divine Drag School, for example, provides a supportive space to explore your drag journey with guidance and community.
- Social Media Communities: Join Facebook groups or Discord channels for drag artists to share advice, resources, and opportunities.
Why Your Business Matters
Drag is a form of self-expression, but it’s also a platform for connection, activism, and cultural impact. By pursuing a career in drag, you’re not just creating art—you’re building a brand that can inspire others to embrace their true selves. Whether you’re lip-syncing in a local bar or teaching a makeup class online, your work has value.
Starting a career in drag can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Remember, every successful drag artist began as a beginner. With creativity, persistence, and a strong business mindset, you can carve out your space in the drag world and turn your passion into a thriving career.
What’s your drag business dream? Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with us at Divine Drag School to start building your future today!