Leaving well-paying job to channel into creativity in make-up artistry

What inspired you to venture into the make-up industry?

I have always loved the beauty industry and have been obsessed with make-up for as long as I can remember. I started to understand the techniques behind it as I got older and would apply make-up on myself and then I got really good at it and would give my friends makeovers. It took off from there.

What is your signature look and what sets you apart from other make-up artists?

My signature look is gold eyeshadow and red lips that goes well with many skin tones. What sets me apart is my relationship with my clients and colleagues.

I am also keen and pay attention to details when doing make-up. I am a perfectionist and I do not do what I do just for the money. The smile and happiness from a client is all I seek when I am done working on them.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

I get my inspiration from the everyday woman. I love seeing women comfortable in their skin with or without make-up. Make-up artistry is where my heart belongs. It requires skill, creativity and emotional intelligence.

What do you love most about make-up?

I love that it is a form of expression and through it my creative side emerges. I also love how the slightest bit of make-up can transform a woman’s confidence. It is not about disguising who a person is, but enhancing one’s natural beauty.

What challenges did you face when you started the Make-up by Shiko brand?

Initially, getting clients and gaining their trust was a nightmare, but I have been able to jump that hurdle successfully because my work speaks for itself.

What are common mistakes women make while doing their make-up?

The common mistake is not being able to choose the right colours for their skin tones. Make-up is a personal preference, but there are colours that complement skin tones better than others. There are undertones in foundations and powders.

What make-up products should every woman have in her purse?

Lip gloss, lipstick and powder. They come in handy when one needs to touch-up. The right choice of lipstick makes a woman feel confident.

What are your top three make-up tools and why?

Three make-up tools I always carry with me are an eye pencil for the eyebrows, foundation and lipstick. They help a person to stand out at all times.

What’s that one beauty advise you can give women?

A woman’s skin routine does not have to be expensive, but finding the perfect beauty routine can be a long and arduous process. Often, women seek advice from online personalities for beauty routines, but the truth is, everyone is different and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you.

For make-up artists that are just starting out, what advise can you give?

Be yourself, focus on what makes you unique and most importantly, take time to understand how the beauty and cosmetics industry operates. It all takes time, but success is defined by a person’s goals.