How long have you been a makeup artist and how did you get your start in the industry?
I have been practicing makeup on myself since High School. It wasn’t until 2016 that I really started getting into the artistry side of it. Experimenting with techniques, color, formulas and educating myself more. I am self taught. I have learned by watching tutorials and taking online master classes from my favorite professional artists. After posting my work on social media I started getting inquiries about doing makeup on others. That’s how I got into freelancing in my spare time.
What do you love most about makeup?
Makeup is my Zen and my form of self-expression. I love the state of mind I fall into when applying makeup on both myself and others. I love getting to mix up my own concoctions and seeing a whole look come together. I love how there isn’t just one bubble to fall into. Some days I can go all out with glitter and rhinestones. Other days it’s about fine tuning our favorite features. It’s so versatile every time. It’s an adventure.
If you weren’t a makeup artist, what else would you do?
Something else other than makeup I could see myself doing would have to be something that gives me creative freedom. I can see myself being an entrepreneur. Working for myself building something from the ground up. What that is, I am not sure. I can see myself being an educator/consultant. I enjoy talking about the things I love and sharing as much information about it as I can.
What is your signature look and what sets you apart from other makeup artists in Cleveland?
My signature style is less is more. I love enhancing people’s natural features. Makeup that looks polished but also looks like skin. Makeup to me is so personal. I rarely ever use the same type of products, techniques, colors on everyone. We are different with different features and instead of drawing features in or altering shapes. I like to bring out the best in what we have not try to make everyone look the same to fit in a box. I think what sets me apart from other artists is I really try to get to know everyone who sits in my chair, I ask a lot of questions. Such as what’s their skin type, if they don’t know I ask questions to help us both figure it out. I like to know what skin care they are using, What are some concerns, allergies, or sensitivities they may have. What their goal is for that day makeup wise. Will the location be indoors outdoors, using flash photography? I want to get a full picture and know what I am working with because to me your base is everything, how you start affects the result, like building a house you need to start with a strong foundation. Its more than just making you look pretty for a moment. I want my work to last until it’s time to wash it off.
What are common mistakes women make while doing their makeup?
Some common mistakes I see often are not using products that align with their skin type or not using a product in a way that will work for them. An example is someone with dry skin using a mattifying foundation. It can look cakey if their skin isn’t prepped correctly. Not knowing their undertone. When picking a foundation knowing your undertone is key when color matching.
“Some days I can go all out with glitter and rhinestones, other days it’s about fine tuning our favorite features, it’s so versatile every time, it’s an adventure.”
Imagine that a girl asks you for a makeup style that is not suitable for her. How do you handle it?
If someone sits in my chair and asks for a style that doesn’t really compliment their features. I do the best I can to accommodate their request. I will make a suggestion where I feel its necessary. If my suggestion isn’t in their comfort level or they are unsure about it. I will apply their makeup as requested and show them along the way so they can see for themselves how it looks. If they can see it doesn’t suit them we can always tweak it for favor their features,
Suppose you have 5 minutes to do a makeup—what can you do that would make the most difference?
If I have just 5 minutes to do a face or get ready myself I am going to just target the main concerns which can vary, some days its just moisturizer and concealer to hide lack of sleep, others its spot concealing to hide blemishes. If I had to narrow it down it would be concealer, brows, and lip balm.
Who are your beauty icons and why?
My Favorite beauty icons are whom I feel in my opinion are some of best professional artists. Such as Danessa Myricks, Patrick ta, Lisa Eldridge, Katie Jane Hughs. I love their styles and artistry
What is the most important beauty advice that you can give to women?
I think makeup can be used to enhance your natural features and you can use it to hide what some would consider their ‘imperfections’ but I don’t necessarily think you have to wear makeup to feel beautiful. I think the best thing someone can wear is self-confidence.
Does everyone look better with makeup?
I think is makeup is suggestive. There are no real rules to it. Its all about how it makes you feel. We all have different preferences.
What are the three tools in your make up kit that you can never, ever be without?
Three tools in my Kit that I can’t live without are concealer, lipstick, and brows because of their versatility.
What is your favorite quote?
Never let lack of support ruin your creativity.
Share with us 3 random facts that very few people know!
Random facts not a lot of people know are that most products are versatile. Not everyone needs a full makeup kit to do a full face. Lipstick can be used a blush. A blush can be used as an eyeshadow. You can mix your favorite highlighter with moisturizer to have an all over glow or turn your powder highlighter into a cream one. Primer isn’t always necessary if your skin is prepped well. Where you hold your brushes matter. If you want a light wash of color holding your brush at the ends give a more seamless blend. If you want to pack more of a punch with color or a more targeted application hold your closer to the ferrule.
Where can our readers find you and keep in touch with you?
I am on Instagram @lauranicole.lg. Soon to be starting a youtube channel sharing my favorite tips, tricks, and techniques. stay tuned.
Thanks for your time Laura
