Every morning, as I get ready—sometimes just swiping on a little blush or adding a pop of shimmer—my daughter watches me closely. We chat about what I’m doing, but not in terms of looking better or hiding imperfections. Instead, we focus on the F-word that we cherish in our home: fancy. To us, “fancy” represents more than just a makeup application; it’s about empowering ourselves to show up for the moment—be it a morning Zoom call, a girls’ brunch, or a wedding day. Makeup becomes a delightful expression of confidence and joy, enhancing what is already beautiful while celebrating each occasion.
This mindset shapes my approach as a makeup artist, especially when working with bridal clients. I don’t aim to transform anyone into a different person; rather, I enhance what makes them uniquely stunning. Makeup should never be about chasing trends or masking flaws; it’s about feeling elevated and radiant as you step into life’s most meaningful moments. In this blog, I’ll share my philosophy on makeup and the lessons I want to pass on to my daughter. Together, we’ll explore why the concept of being “fancy” is vital to embracing beauty—and how it informs everything I do as an artist.
Embracing the F-word: What fancy means to us
In our household, the word fancy transcends its traditional connotation. It embodies a daily celebration of self-expression and presence. When I put on makeup in the morning, I invite my daughter into that world—a world where we discuss the significance of each brushstroke, not in terms of covering imperfections but rather in enhancing our unique beauty. When we talk about being “fancy, we focus on the empowerment that comes from feeling ready to take on the day. Every swipe of blush or dab of highlighter is a reminder that showing up for ourselves is an essential part of our routine, a way to elevate the ordinary into something extraordinary.
This philosophy extends beyond just our morning ritual. As I work with bridal clients, I carry the same spirit of “fancy” into our time together. I strive to create an environment where women feel elevated, confident, and absolutely themselves on one of the most important days of their lives. It’s not simply about transforming into someone else; it’s about amplifying the beauty that already exists. By focusing on “fancy,” I teach my daughter—and remind my clients—that elegance and grace stem from knowing who you are and embracing that in all its forms. In doing so, we reject the misconceptions around beauty and cherish the moments that matter most, together.
Makeup moments: How our daily rituals spark joy
Every morning, as I prepare for the day ahead, the simple act of applying makeup transforms into a shared ritual between my daughter and me. With every brushstroke and pop of color, we engage in a delightful conversation about our beauty habits. I emphasize that this routine isn’t about concealing flaws but rather about embracing the magic of the day. Together, we celebrate the little moments, whether it’s a quick chat before school or getting ready for a fun outing. This active participation instills in her a sense of curiosity and appreciation for creativity, making our mornings not just about makeup but about connection and joy.
As I introduce different techniques and colors to my daughter, we explore how makeup allows us to express our individuality. Each application becomes an opportunity to unleash creativity and to highlight what makes us unique. When I swipe on a little blush or add a shimmery highlight, I invite her to witness the transformation—not into something other than myself, but into a version of me ready to take on the world. This shared experience reinforces the idea that makeup can enhance our natural beauty and elevate our moods, turning ordinary days into extraordinary ones. Through our morning makeup moments, I'm teaching her that joy and confidence come from within, and that every day deserves a touch of fancy.
Celebrating beauty: The core philosophy behind my artistry
At the heart of my makeup artistry lies a deep appreciation for the unique beauty in every individual. I believe that makeup should enhance what is already there, rather than mask or conceal it. Each brushstroke, each dab of color, is an opportunity to celebrate a person’s true essence. This philosophy resonates especially with my bridal clients, where the goal isn't to dramatically change their appearance but to highlight their natural features and bring forth their inner glow. When I work on a bridal look, I'm not just applying makeup; I'm crafting an emotional experience that helps my clients feel truly special on one of the most important days of their lives.
This approach mirrors the lessons I aim to pass on to my daughter about self-acceptance and confidence. I want her to understand that beauty is not dictated by societal standards or fleeting trends but is a reflection of how one feels about themselves. By fostering an environment where we celebrate individuality, we cultivate a sense of joy and empowerment. When I apply my makeup each morning, it's more than a routine; it's an expression of creativity, a moment of connection, and an opportunity to embrace every facet of beauty. This is the legacy I strive to impart to my daughter—a legacy rooted in confidence, authenticity, and above all, the joy of feeling fancy.