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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 nurtures the personal growth of the artists she represents. With nearly four decades of experience, she shares her unique perspective on how agents and artists can work together to achieve long-term success.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Dolores’ unexpected journey into becoming an agent.
• The true role of an agent — and why it’s more than just booking jobs.
• Why communication and personal relationships are at the heart of representation.
• How Dolores helps artists map out their career paths strategically.
• The importance of balancing editorial work with commercial opportunities.
• The traits and personalities that stand out when she’s looking to represent talent.
• Practical advice for artists seeking representation in today’s industry.

Whether you’re an aspiring makeup artist, hairstylist, or creative professional, this conversation is packed with valuable insights into the business side of artistry — and the powerful role an agent can play in helping you thrive.

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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 your rates and building a sustainable bridal business.

Together, they share candid insights on:

• The real costs of running a freelance makeup business (GST, taxes, super, and more)
• How to calculate your earnings and factor in seasonal work
• Why pricing is as much about brand perception as it is about skill
• The power of word-of-mouth and industry connections over social media alone
• How to adapt your pricing as your life and skills evolve
• Simplifying your packages so clients understand and value your work

Whether you’re just starting your makeup career or are a seasoned artist looking to refine your business strategy, this conversation will give you practical tools and fresh perspectives to confidently set your prices and stick to them.

Get to know the guests.

jacquibradfield.com.au

@jacquibradfieldmakeup 

Megans website 

@meganharrisonmakeup 

@melricciomakeup 

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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 career in retail makeup. She opens up about navigating the world of freelance artistry, comparing the pros and cons of self-representation versus working with an agent, and offers real talk about persistence, creativity, and staying relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

We dive into behind-the-scenes stories from working with major names like The Pussycat Dolls and Madonna, and hear what it’s really like backstage at fashion shows and on set for editorial shoots. Ciara also talks about building her own beauty brand, Pro Shine, and how she’s using tools like AI and social media to grow her presence and connect with a global audience.

This episode is packed with insight, humour, and practical advice for makeup artists and creatives alike.

Highlights:

• Growing up in Ireland and discovering a love for beauty
• Training at the London College of Fashion
• Breaking into the fashion industry - working under Charlotte Tilbury and Pat McGrath.
• Working with celebrities and navigating high-pressure environments
• Freelancing versus agency representation
• Launching her brand, Pro Shine
• Using AI and social media to build a modern personal brand

Ciara Does Makeup Substack

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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'll Learn:

• How to pitch yourself to PR agencies
• What PR reps really look for
• The importance of authentic content
• Why engagement matters more than follower count
• How to build a community that brands want to partner with

Links & Mentions:

• Ebanny's brand: Edie

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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 her artistry, rebuild her work-life balance, and create space for more meaningful, offline relationships. From manifesting her dream career to navigating the fast-paced beauty world with presence and purpose, Penny’s story is both grounding and inspiring for anyone feeling burnt out by the pressure to stay constantly “on.”

In this episode, Penny shares:

• What happened when her Instagram account was unexpectedly deleted
• How the loss helped her reconnect with her passion for makeup
• Offline strategies for building a dream career in beauty
• Why networking in person still matters (and works!)
• Her views on manifestation, energy, and mental health in the industry
• Practical steps aspiring artists can take to join Fashion Week teams

This episode is a must-listen if you:

• Feel overwhelmed by social media as a creative
• Want to build a long-lasting career based on authenticity, not algorithms
• Are looking for tips on balancing artistry, ambition, and wellbeing
• Dream of working behind the scenes at fashion shows or high-end campaigns
  
  

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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 Fashion Week—team coordination, last-minute curveballs, and navigating the industry’s financial grey areas. Plus, Andrea offers grounded advice on how to build your career without losing your individuality.

Key Takeaways:

• Why genuine connection is your best career currency
• The value (and limits) of product sponsorships
• Navigating backstage etiquette and social media rules
• Learning to trust your timing and your process

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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 ultimately create better images. 

What You'll Learn:

• Why being easy to work with can be more important than your makeup skills
• How to approach a shoot when the model has textured skin or breakouts
• The crucial questions to ask your photographer before you start makeup
• How lighting and color grading impact how makeup reads on camera
• Tips for building trust and communication on commercial sets
• Why you should never assume something will be “fixed in post”

Key Takeaways:

• Kindness and professionalism lead to repeat bookings. Skill matters, but people remember how you make them feel
• Communication is everything. Every photographer has different needs — check in before you begin
• Lighting dramatically affects how makeup appears on camera — know what you're working with
• A short conversation at the start of the day can prevent major issues later
• Makeup artists and photographers are equal collaborators in the creative process
• Never assume — always ask if something should be fixed in the moment or later in post
• First impressions matter — be warm, engaged, and proactive on set

Follow Eddie.

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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 industry changes, and the balance between creativity and consistency in production environments.

What We Cover:

• Helen’s early fascination with transformative makeup ("Planet of the Apes" fans, listen up!)
• Lessons from working in ballet, opera, and special effects
• Adventures overseas and the impact of international experience
• Behind-the-scenes stories from "Neighbors" and "Apple Cider Vinegar"
• The art of continuity and reading scripts with a keen eye
• Building strong teams and mentoring young artists
• Balancing work-life in an ever-evolving creative industry

Takeaways:

• Why collaboration is key in hair and makeup departments
• How to bring innovation into structured environments
• The role of passion and adaptability in a successful career

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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 transition from show jump rider to makeup artistry
• The unpredictable "roller coaster" nature of freelance life in the beauty industry
• Her valuable apprenticeship experiences with masters Ray Morris and Muriel Van Kavan
• The extraordinary lengths she went to for mentorship (including mowing lawns!)
• Navigating international fashion weeks and building her reputation
• Working with celebrities including Phoebe Tonkin and Jess Mauboy
• Her decade-long partnership with Chanel and how it evolved
• Current work in product development and mentoring emerging artists

Key Takeaways

• The importance of practical experience and learning by doing
• How artistic skills from other disciplines can translate to makeup
• Why networking and set etiquette matter as much as technical ability
• The value of breaking conventional rules to develop a unique artistic voic
• How perseverance and adaptability are essential for success in an ever-changing industry

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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:

• Jaque’s transition from Sao Paulo to Sydney and the challenges of starting over  
• How she balanced motherhood and her growing career in makeup artistry  
• The importance of assisting in the industry and how it helped her career take off  
• What it takes to be a great assistant and how to leave a lasting impression  
• Jaque’s journey to signing with Saunders and Co. and what it means for her career  
• A peek inside Jaque’s makeup kit and her must-have products  
• Advice for aspiring makeup artists looking to build a sustainable career  

Episode Highlights: 
Every opportunity, no matter how small, is a stepping stone in your career.” Jaque Di Condio  
Assisting isn’t just about learning skills—it’s about building relationships and proving your work ethic.”  

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