The Makeup Insider

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Maddy Baucia returns after an incredible season completing 110 weddings across Tuscany, Umbria, and stunning destinations including the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, and Sicily. She shares the realities behind such a high-volume year: the logistics, the challenges, the systems she relied on, and the lessons she’ll carry forward. We dive into how she plans to reduce her...

Send us Fan Mail Navigating the European Wedding Circuit: Lessons from a Pro Makeup Artist Episode Summary In this episode of The Makeup Insider , Vanessa chats with pro makeup artist Jacqui , who recently returned from a whirlwind season working across Europe’s wedding circuit . From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustle of Rome, Jacqui shares what it’s really like to take your artistry abro...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Makeup Insider , Vanessa sits down with the incredible Michael Brown , one of Australia’s most loved and trusted makeup artists. Michael’s 25-year career has taken him from a dancer in Perth to a leading Sydney-based artist, educator, and television beauty expert. Known for his versatility and genuine connection with clients, Michael shares the story of how...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Makeup Insider , I’m joined by personal branding and business coach Suz Chadwick to break down the four essential content types every creator needs to master. Whether you’re a makeup artist building your portfolio or a creative entrepreneur growing your digital presence, these content strategies will help you stand out, connect deeply with your audience, and...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Vanessa chats with bridal makeup artists Megan and Adele about the realities of working in the bridal industry. You’ll hear: Getting started in bridal makeup – how retail counters, experimentation, and building a signature style lay the foundation. Pricing strategies – packages vs à la carte, setting fair yet sustainable rates, and communicating transparently with...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Makeup Insider , I sit down with Dolores Lavin , the powerhouse behind DLM Management , to unpack the world of creative representation and what it really takes to build a successful career as a creative agent. Dolores has been in the industry since the early ’90s, building a reputation as a dedicated agent who not only manages the business side but also nurt...

Send us Fan Mail Navigating the Bridal Makeup Industry: Pricing Strategies & Insights from Experienced Artists Pricing your services as a makeup artist can feel like walking a tightrope  balancing your skills, expenses, market value, and confidence. In this episode of The Makeup Insider, Vanessa is joined by fellow artists Mel, Megan, Jacqui, and more to unpack what really goes into setting yo...

Send us Fan Mail In this inspiring and in-depth episode, Vanessa sits down with London-based makeup artist Ciara O Shea to explore her incredible journey from a small town in Ireland to the forefront of the international fashion scene. Ciara shares how a childhood love of fashion magazines sparked her passion for beauty, leading her to study at the London College of Fashion and kick-start her care...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Vanessa chats with experienced PR consultant Ebanny , who shares how creatives from makeup artists to photographers can catch the attention of PR agencies and build lasting relationships in the industry. You’ll learn how to pitch yourself, why engagement matters more than followers, and how to approach PR gifting with creativity and professionalism. What You'...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Vanessa sits down with renowned makeup artist Penny Antuar to talk about the unexpected moment that reshaped her career: losing her Instagram account. What started as a digital disruption quickly became a powerful catalyst for realignment, reconnection, and redefining success. Penny shares how stepping away from social media allowed her to rediscover the joy in he...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Makeup Insider , we sit down with Andrea Damyon , a multifaceted makeup artist whose path to Fashion Week was anything but linear. From her beginnings in film and special effects to a pivotal role at Make Up For Ever, Andrea shares how a combination of skill, perseverance, and relationship-building helped shape her career. We dive into the real logistics of...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode I chat Beauty Photographer Eddie New . I dive into one of the most overlooked — yet essential — parts of a successful beauty or commercial shoot: the relationship between the makeup artist and the photographer. Whether you're a seasoned MUA or just starting out, this episode will help you level up your professionalism, improve collaboration on set, and ultimat...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we step behind the scenes with Helen Magelaki, a hair and makeup artist whose incredible journey spans theater, opera, film, and television. From her childhood inspirations to her work on iconic productions, Helen shares insights into the artistry, perseverance, and innovation that have shaped her career. We discuss the importance of mentorship, adapting to indust...

Send us Fan Mail Join me for an inspiring conversation with Victoria Baron, a celebrated makeup artist whose unconventional journey took her from show jumping in the UK to becoming one of the industry's most respected names. Victoria shares her remarkable story, creative process, and lessons learned working with celebrities and major fashion houses. Topics Covered Victoria's surprising t...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode I sit down with Jaque Di Condio , a Sydney-based hair and makeup artist whose journey from Brazil to Australia is nothing short of inspiring. From starting fresh in a new country to building a thriving freelance career and joining a top agency, Jaque shares her experiences, challenges, and key insights into the beauty industry.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode:...

Send us Fan Mail Join us for an inspiring conversation with Linda Jefferyes , an accomplished makeup artist with over 30 years of experience in the fashion industry. Linda shares her unique journey from a small town in Western Australia to becoming one of the most respected figures in makeup artistry, working with celebrities and renowned fashion brands. Topics Covered Linda's early inspirati...

Send us Fan Mail Join me for an inspiring conversation with renowned hairstylist Pete Lennon as he shares his incredible journey from a 15-year-old apprentice in Sydney to becoming a sought-after stylist in New York City's high-fashion scene. Pete reveals the twists and turns of his career spanning over three decades, offering valuable insights for aspiring hairstylists and anyone passionate...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Vanessa sits down with  Arielle Thomas , founder of the buzzing production company Cinema Thom . Arielle shares her incredible career journey — from acting gigs in New York to media production, working with top fashion brands, and landing massive clients like Chemist Warehouse and Kmart. Arielle is also the host of an incredible podcast called Process .  Key takea...

Send us Fan Mail In the latest episode of The Makeup Insider, I chat with San Diego-based artist Kandra Jones about her inspiring journey—from dreaming of teaching second grade to building her bridal beauty empire, Twirly Shears. 🌟 Highlights include:  ✨ Her leap into cosmetology and 20+ years in salon work  ✨ The natural glam philosophy behind Twirly Shears  ✨ Navigating viral moments with gr...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Maddy Baucia shares her journey from managing Mecca stores and working in the Australian film industry to building a thriving bridal hair and makeup business in Italy. She dives into the challenges of transitioning to a competitive destination wedding market, managing logistics in Tuscany, and refining her business strategies. Maddy also highlights the importance...

Send us Fan Mail Sydney-based makeup artist and skin therapist Isabella Schimid, who has uniquely blended her expertise in skincare and makeup artistry. Isabella shares her inspiring journey, career-defining moments, and lessons from her path to success. Key Topics Covered: Starting out in beauty therapy and discovering her dual passion for skin and makeup. Opening her own salon and venturing into...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Makeup Insider, host Vanessa Barney talks to Jess Rae King , a curve model and content creator, and Jessica Jade , a creative director and stylist, about their collaborative experience for the ARIA Awards. Jess Rae shares her journey of overcoming imposter syndrome to attend the event, highlighting the preparation process—from selecting an outfit with Jessic...

Send us Fan Mail Join us for an inspiring conversation with Bradwyn Jones , the creative force behind some of the most innovative hair and makeup artistry in the fashion world. From his beginnings as a 15-year-old apprentice in the bustling salons of the 1980s to his rise as a respected figure in the beauty industry, Bradwyn's journey is a testament to passion and perseverance. You'll he...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Vanessa sits down with partnership specialist Sarina Lowe to delve into the intricacies of partnerships, sponsorships, and collaborations.  Key Takeaways: Differentiate between cash partnerships and contra (product/service exchange) partnerships. How makeup artists, can benefit immensely from strategic partnerships. Building genuine relationships with potential pa...

Send us Fan Mail Ever wonder how a self-taught high school enthusiast transforms into a sought-after hair and makeup artist in the film and TV industry? In our latest episode of the Makeup Insider, we sit down with the inspiring Ashleigh Stone , whose incredible journey takes her from experimenting with beauty looks in her teenage years to mastering special effects at the Australian Academy of Cin...