Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Merci.
Nicole, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I became a Makeup Artist blindfolded. I’d always do makeup for friends and family, just for the fun of it. I would do my own makeup everywhere I went and always got asked if I had business cards. It never came to a realization to me that I’d one day turn my passion into a paycheck. I toured the Academy of Glam in Davie, FL one day, just as an interest in the future. Little did I know the same day I’d be registering to attend for the upcoming class starting in just two weeks. I was not sure exactly what I would want to do as an artist, but I knew I had a strong passion for enhancing one’s natural beauty. To me, there is nothing more empowering then reminding someone about their natural beauty. Reminding them that they are sitting in my chair just to enhance their natural beauty and make them feel more beautiful.
Today, I am freelancing working mostly with photographers and signed models on editorial shoots. I also work weddings and take clientele for any special events they may have. I drive to all locations whether I am on set or going to a client’s house. I am also working as a Freelancer for a few companies under Estee Lauder including Smashbox Cosmetics, Bobbi Brown and Glam Glow. The Academy of Glam gave me the opportunity after graduation to work at the studio as a Makeup Artist and Assistant for some classes. Because of The Academy of Glam and Victoria Duke Beauty, I have had many opportunities as a Makeup Artist such as working Fashion Shows, Pageants such as Miss FL, Charity Events and Commercial shoots. I would not be where I am today without the amazing staff and Artists I learned from at the AOG.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being a Makeup Artist requires a lot of time, energy, patience, sacrifice and passion. It has been a smooth road, although there are seasons slower and tougher then others. The most important thing to me is hustling and working hard for what I want. I am always seeking opportunities to work, especially TFP shoots. I believe giving photographers and models your time for photos is important in order to grow as an artist and improve skills.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Beauty by Nicole Merci story. Tell us more about the business.
As a Certified Professional Makeup Artist, I am trained in all areas of artistry including but not limited to: Special Events, Editorial, Avant Garde, Special Effects. However, my specialty is Editorial and Special Events. I love using new techniques as an editorial Makeup Artist to mix it up from very natural skin like makeup to Avant Garde. I am known for doing very glowy, dewy, bronzy skin like makeup when I am on set. I work mostly beach and outdoor shoots.
I believe what sets me apart from other Makeup Artists is that I always leave the client with an experience. I always make a connection prior to the application and continue to build it. I also always remind my clients that I am only enhancing their natural beauty.
What I am most proud of is how much I have grown as an Artist in only two years. My mindset is more open to trying new creative ideas and I have my own vision with certain projects as well. I know that where I am now, I can only continue to grow more each day as an Artist. I have a lot of new ideas and projects coming up that I am very excited for.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
In my life and business, luck has not really played a role. Although the right connections and a good attitude have played a very important role. I have received a lot more business by word of mouth than any other way, because of the positive experience I left the clients with.
Pricing:
- Starting rate: $85
Contact Info:
- Phone: (786) 693-0563
- Email: beautybynicolemerci@gmail.com
- Instagram: beautybynicolemerci
Image Credit:
Photographer @brotherjunior
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