Having a mentor during transition?

[KymmieL]

I have been thinking. Yeah I know I shouldn't. With me not knowing or having any transgender friends. friends in general. How many of you have/had a mentor during transition? Someone to help show you things about being female. makeup, hair, style, etc. Every step I take forward is new to me. My wife is no help as she doesn't wear makeup. and far from a girly girl. Plus I don't think she realizes what I am doing fully.

 

In my case should I possibly seek out a mentor? If I am able.

 

Kymmie

[VickySGV]

Twenty years (Oh gawd was it that long ago?)  I did have a couple of places where they did makeovers for Trans people, and one place where the owner actually had a Sorority for her Trans Femme customers who had makeovers, bought clothing and accessories from her, and then went out to a couple of sites that had nightclubs for us.  It helped me , not so much with the make-up skills, but just with the confidence to be open about my CDing at the time with others.  Today, the rare boutique and the special "clubs" they spawned have been replaced by self-help groups formed at LGBT centers who do mentor each other.  I still have friends from my CD days who have not evolved into Transitioning full timers but we are still friends and they do their thing where they can.  So yes, do find people who can give you a real life contact even if the make-up is not the best or most appropriate at first.