Artist to Artist
The Artist to Artist Podcast offers practical business advice for makeup artists in the first five years of their careers. Hosted by Angie, a full-time freelance makeup artist and educator, it covers essential skills, kit-building, client communication, social media, and the realities of the industry. Listeners get straightforward insights to work smarter, book more clients, and grow with confidence. New episodes are released weekly.
Episodes
EP 60: Year-End Reflection: What's Changing in 2026 (And Why I'm Excited About It)
This is the final episode of the Artist to Artist podcast. After 60 episodes, I'm putting the podcast on hiatus to focus my mentorship energy inside the membership, where I can go deeper with artists building sustainable careers.
In this episode, I'm sharing what I learned this year building Artist to Artist, and having to rebuild my business from the ground up, why I'm ending free conten
EP59 The Makeup Artist Audit: What to Fix Before 2026
Before you set any goals for 2026, you need to assess where you actually are right now. Most makeup artists skip this step and wonder why nothing changes year after year.
In this episode, I'm walking you through the four-category audit framework:
Infrastructure - Can someone with money actually book you easily? How does the back end of your business run?
Confidence - Are you apologizing f
EP58 Stop Waiting for January: How to Plan Your Best Year During the Slow Season
If you're waiting until January to start planning your next year, you're already behind.
December isn't downtime, it's when pro MUAs lay the groundwork while everyone else promises to "start fresh" in the new year.
In this episode, I'm breaking down why the quiet season is your biggest competitive advantage and how to use it strategically.
The Planning Mindset Shift
For years, I stay
EP57 The Networking Long Game No One Talks About
If you've been sending DMs to photographers and vendors and getting nothing back, this episode is going to change how you think about networking forever.
Most makeup artists give up after their first ten messages go unanswered. They assume networking doesn't work, or that they're doing something wrong, or that nobody wants to work with them. But the truth is, they're just playing the shor
EP56 How to Work Fast Without Compromising Your Standards
Speed is a non-negotiable in this industry, but it doesn't mean sacrificing quality or cutting corners on hygiene. In this episode, I break down the myths self-taught and new makeup artists believe about working fast, share the moment I realized speed was actually a skill, and walk through the systems that let you work efficiently without ever putting client safety at risk.
In this episod
EP55 Why Your Kit Setup Is Sabotaging Your Speed
You're not slow because your hands aren't moving fast enough, you're slow because your setup might be working against you. In this episode, I share the shift that changed everything for me on set: stopping the comparison trance and finally asking for what I needed to be comfortable and efficient.
We'll talk about why most new artists stay uncomfortable (and how to break that pattern), the
EP54 The Client Communication Mistakes That Cost You Bookings
Your client isn't just working with you - they're comparing your professionalism to every other service provider they hire. If your communication doesn't meet industry standards, you look amateur by comparison.
In this episode, I'm breaking down the communication mistakes that are costing you bookings and probably more money than you realize.
The 5 Major Communication M
EP53 How To Tell If A Course Is Actually Worth It
Are you course shopping your way to success? Let's chat.
Most makeup artists are spending way too much on courses that aren't moving the needle in their career. You think you need more information, but what you really need is better information.
In this episode, I'm sharing the 5 questions you need to ask yourself before buying any course - whether it's beauty school, online trainin
EP52 You Don't Need to Go Viral, You Need to Be Consistent
In this episode, we're breaking down why chasing viral moments is sabotaging your business and why steady, consistent work is actually your secret weapon.
What you'll learn:
Why makeup artists need to stay aware of trends but shouldn't chase viral content
The dangerous mindset that viral moments equal business success
Why going viral isn't a business strategy (and what happens when
EP51 You Can't Afford To Be Unclear
In this episode, we're tackling something that's costing you bookings without you even realizing it: being unclear about what you do and who you serve.
What you'll learn:
The paradox every new makeup artist faces - you need to be versatile to get work, but your portfolio needs to tell a clear story
Why "confusion kills conversions" and what that actually means for your booking rate
EP50 What to Do When a Client Changes Their Mind - Last Minute
This episode is under 10 minutes, but it might save you hours of stress and second-guessing on your next job. If you’ve ever panicked when a client suddenly wants something different, this is for you.
I’m breaking down exactly how to handle last-minute changes without spiralling, over-explaining, or running late.
You’ll learn how to stay calm, offer solutions, and protect your reputation—
EP49 Still Saying Yes to Everything? Here’s What That’s Costing You
Clients texting you at night? Asking you to stay late or help with things that aren’t part of your job? This episode breaks down how to set time boundaries without sounding rude—or feeling guilty.
I’m sharing how I used to struggle with people-pleasing, what finally pushed me to speak up, and how I set expectations with clients now.
You’ll learn:
What “scope creep” is and how to avoid it
EP48 When Clients Cancel Last Minute: Protecting Your Time Without Losing Your Mind
Clients who cancel last minute or disappear can leave you feeling frustrated and questioning everything.
In this episode, I’m breaking down how to protect your time and stop taking it personally.
We’ll cover:
Early red flags that a client might cancel
The difference between great service and over-accommodating
How to use booking policies to protect yourself
Why tone and communication ma
EP47 The Skills That Actually Matter in Your First Year as a Makeup Artist
Struggling to figure out what actually matters when you’re starting out as a makeup artist?
In this episode, I’m breaking down the six real skills that helped me book work, grow my confidence, and stop second-guessing everything.
We’re skipping the trends and going straight to what actually works—on set, with real clients, and under pressure.
You’ll learn why placement matters more than s
EP46 Not Everyone Will Love Your Work - Here’s How to Deal
What do you do when someone doesn’t like the makeup you just did?
In this episode, I’m talking about the emotional side of being a makeup artist—how to stay grounded, handle vague or negative feedback, and keep doing great work even when you feel like no one is
You’ll learn:
Why it’s normal for clients not to say much (or anything)
How to handle changes without taking it perso
#45 Why Nobody's Booking You - Yet
If you’re doing everything “right” but still not getting booked—this one’s for you.
In this episode, I’m breaking down what actually builds trust and visibility as a makeup artist—and why momentum takes longer than you think.
You’ll learn what visibility really means (it’s more than Instagram), why posting pretty photos isn’t always enough, how to know if your content is building trust or
#44 Your First Paid Job: What I Wish I Knew
Your first paid job as a makeup artist is a big deal—whether it’s for a bride, a brand, a production, or a friend-of-a-friend referral. It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of learning curves.
In this episode, I’m sharing everything I wish someone had told me before my first few paid jobs. We talk about what actually matters on your first job (and what doesn’t), how to handle nerves an
#43 Start Sharing Your Work (Even If It's Not Perfect)
If you’ve been waiting until your work is perfect before posting, this episode is your reminder that perfection is not the goal—visibility is.
I’m talking about why it’s so common for new artists to feel stuck, what’s really holding you back from showing your work, and how to start sharing what you’re doing in a way that actually attracts clients and builds trust. Whether your content isn
#42 You're Not Behind
Feeling like you should be further ahead in your career? You’re not alone—and you’re not behind.
In this episode, I’m breaking down why that pressure to “be further along” is normal but often based on comparison, misinformation, or unrealistic timelines.
If you’ve ever thought “Why am I not booking more?”, “Why don’t I feel as confident as other artists?”, or “Why isn’t my kit or my caree
#41 What I’m Loving Right Now: Spring Kit Favourites
In this episode, I’m breaking down the exact products I’ve been loving lately for bridal, commercial, and on-set work—and more importantly, why they’re in my kit. If you’re a newer makeup artist still building your kit, this is the kind of episode that will save you money, time, and frustration. You’ll hear how each product performs on real jobs, which skin types they’re best for, and how
#40 Speed vs. Sloppiness - What Working Fast Actually Looks Like
In this episode, I’m breaking down what working fast actually means as a professional makeup artist—and why speed doesn’t have to equal sloppiness. We’re talking about how to stay efficient under pressure, what steps I skip or simplify when time is tight, and why perfection isn’t always the goal (especially in real working environments like bridal, commercial, or e-comm).
I also introduce
#39 What New Makeup Artists Need to Know About Assissting (But Aren’t Being Told)
So… you want to assist a makeup artist.
Before you volunteer yourself (or worse—show up unprepared), listen to this episode. I’m breaking down what assisting actually looks like, the mindset shifts you need to make, and why most newer artists are getting it wrong.
If you’ve ever wondered:
What should I bring to an assisting job?
Will I get to do makeup?
How do I not overstep?
Why do so m
#38 What to Do When a Client Hates Their Makeup (Without Taking It Personally)
Let’s talk about the thing every working makeup artist deals with eventually, what do you do when a client doesn’t like their makeup.
In this episode, I’m breaking down how to handle it with professionalism, clarity, and zero ego.
We’ll talk about:
How to prevent client dissatisfaction before it happens
What to say (and not say) when someone isn’t happy
How to handle vague, rude, or uncl
#37 Why Foundation Is So Hard to Get Right (And How to Finally Nail It)
If foundation still feels like the hardest part of your application, this episode is for you.
In this one, I’m breaking down why it’s so tough to master, especially if you’re newer to the industry, and why a lot of what you’ve learned might be holding you back.
I’m covering:
The biggest mistakes I see with foundation
Why “dimensional skin” matters if you actually want to get booked
What
#36 How to Improve Your Speed Without Compromising Quality
If you’ve ever felt like your makeup applications take way too long or you struggle to finish on time for weddings, photoshoots, or commercial work, this episode is for you.
Because here’s the truth: speed matters. Whether you’re on a tight bridal schedule or working on a fast-paced commercial set, the ability to work efficiently while still delivering high-quality results is what sets a
#35 The Real Reason Your Makeup Work Isn’t Getting Noticed
If you feel like you’re putting in the work but your makeup isn’t getting noticed, this episode is for you. A lot of artists think standing out is about being different, but the truth is—it’s about refining your skills, developing your taste level, and consistently putting out high-quality work. And that takes time.
In this episode, we’re breaking down:
The biggest reasons your
#34 Why You’re Struggling to Get Clients (And How to Fix It)
If you feel like you’re doing everything right but still aren’t booking clients, this episode is for you. I see this all the time—makeup artists putting in effort, posting on social media, yet struggling to get people to book them. Today, we’re breaking down the real reasons why this happens and, more importantly, how to fix it.
And I’m not just talking about marketing. We’r
#33 How to Develop Your Signature Style as a Makeup Artist
If you’ve ever wondered how to develop a signature style in makeup artistry, this episode is for you.
Your signature style isn’t something you can force or decide on overnight—it develops through practice, experience, and real-world feedback. In this episode, I break down:
• What a signature style actually is (and what it isn’t).
• Why it takes time to develop.
 
#32 Starting Over: What I’d Do Differently If I Were Starting My Makeup Career Today
In this episode I share what I’d do differently if I were starting my makeup career from scratch in today’s Toronto market. After 20+ years in the industry, I break down the essential mindset shifts, business strategies, and technical skills that would have fast-tracked my success.
If you’re a makeup artist wondering how to stand out, build a profitable business, and skip some of the
#31 The Reality of a Makeup Career – Adapting When Business Slows Down
The makeup industry isn’t always predictable. Clients come and go, businesses shift, and at some point, every artist will face a slowdown. So what do you do when your bookings aren’t what they used to be? How do you continue to grow when raising your rates isn’t an option?
In this episode, I’m breaking down:
✔ The natural cycle of client loss and gain in this industry
✔ Why you can’t rely
#30 How I Book My Bridal Clients Efficiently: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
In this episode of Artist to Artist, I’m walking you through my entire bridal booking process—from initial inquiry to final invoice. If you’re a bridal makeup artist (or thinking about stepping into the bridal space), this episode will help you set up a streamlined, professional booking system that keeps everything organized and stress-free.
I’ll cover:
✅ Why I use HoneyBook as my CRM (an
#29 How to Stand Out as a Makeup Artist in an Oversaturated Industry
In this short, information-packed episode , I dive into a question I get asked all the time: How do I stand out as a makeup artist when the industry feels so oversaturated?
Feeling overwhelmed by social media? Not sure where you fit in? You’re not alone. Today, I’ll walk you through:
• How to shift your mindset and see opportunity in a crowded market.
• Why fo
#28 How to Handle Clients Who Don’t Take You Seriously
In this episode of the Artist to Artist Podcast, I share effective strategies for dealing with clients who may not take you or your work seriously. We’ll cover practical tips to help you build confidence, set boundaries, and take control of your bookings. From the importance of professional communication to the subtle power of body language, this short episode is jam packed with act
#27 Navigating Makeup Artist Rates: Tips for Freelance and Bridal Work
In this episode I’m diving into a statement that I think many makeup artists can relate to: “I know my worth, but it doesn’t seem like others do.” I’ll break down the realities of pricing as a makeup artist, from setting rates in bridal makeup artistry to navigating the complexities of freelance work. I’ll also talk about the importance of building a diverse client roster, reflecting
#26 What 2024 Taught Me: 4 Lessons Every Makeup Artist Needs to Hear
Welcome to the first episode of 2025! I’m sharing 4 lessons I learned during one of the most challenging years of my life. From losing a major client to navigating personal challenges, including the loss of my dad, these are truths that every makeup artist needs to hear.
Lesson 1: You Have to Love the Job—All of It
Success isn’t guaranteed, and no one owes you anything. You need to embrac
#25 Turning Product Recommendations into Income with ShopMy
In this episode of the Artist to Artist Podcast, I’m sharing how makeup artists can use ShopMy to connect with clients and followers, share pro product recommendations, and even create a stream of passive income.
Whether you’re new to affiliate marketing or looking for new strategies, this episode is packed with ideas to get you started.
What You’ll Learn:
• What Sho
#24 Simplifying Skin Prep for Flawless Makeup Application
In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the most important steps in makeup application: skin prep. I used to find it a little overwhelming, but over time, I’ve refined my process and today I’m sharing exactly how I approach skin prep on my talent and clients. The goal? Keep things simple. Over-complicating skin prep can mess with your makeup application, and shorten the longevity o
#23 Smart Spending: How to Use Affordable Products in Your Pro Makeup Kit
In this episode of the Artist to Artist podcast, we’re diving into an issue that many makeup artists, both new and experienced, are facing right now—how to manage the rising cost of your makeup kit while still maintaining professional standards. With makeup prices increasing, it’s more important than ever to be strategic about what products you’re using and when.
Key Points Discussed
#22 From Retail to Beauty Campaigns: Building a Makeup Career You Love
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on how I’ve built a career focused on beauty work. Join me as I share the real story behind my journey, the lessons learned, and the practical steps that helped me find the clients and projects I love.
I talk about my path from retail to working on beauty campaigns for brands like Velour Lashes and Rèphr Brushes. I share the challenges o
#21 How To Stay Professional With Challenging Clients
Welcome to Episode 21 of the Artist to Artist Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that many makeup artists face at some point in their careers: dealing with difficult clients. Whether you’re working on a beauty campaign, with a bridal or event client - challenging clients are just part of the job.
In This Episode, I Cover:
• Practical advice for handling difficu
#20: How to Elevate Your Bridal Services and Book More Clients
Welcome to Episode 20 of the Artist to Artist Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into what it means to elevate your bridal services as a makeup artist. Whether you're a new artist just starting out or a seasoned pro looking to refine your bridal offerings, this episode has something for you.
We'll explore key strategies to help you take your bridal makeup artistry to a higher level, i
#19: Overcoming The Biggest Challenges In Your Makeup Career
In this episode of the Artist to Artist podcast, we’re tackling some of the biggest obstacles makeup artists face. From dealing with an oversaturated market to managing imposter syndrome, client acquisition, and the physical demands of the job, I’m sharing strategies to help you overcome these challenges and thrive in your career.
#18 Starting from Zero: Portfolio Building Strategies for New Makeup Artists
In this episode, I share tips on building your makeup portfolio from scratch. Perfect for new makeup artists!
Here's a quick recap of what is covered in this episode and the steps to follow if you are building your portfolio
1. Market Research: Follow top makeup artists in your area, learn what kinds of work they do.
2. Network: Offer makeup applications to friends, family, and anyone in
#17: From Side Gig to Main Gig: What To Expect When Transitioning To Makeup Full Time
In this episode, I talk about how to go from being a part-time to a full-time makeup artist. I share my own story, give helpful tips, and answer your questions to help you transition to working full time as a makeup artist.
Key Topics:
• My Story: What shocked me the most when I went full time
• Learning: Why it’s important to learn fundamentals
#16 Behind The Scenes: Two Day Advertising Shoot
In this episode I’m diving into something a little different. I recently worked on a two-day advertising shoot for Toyota, and I want to take you behind the scenes. I’ll share how I landed the job through a long-time photographer connection, the preparation involved, set etiquette, and how I handle invoicing for these types of jobs.
You’ll get an inside look at the entire process—fro
#15: Want to be seen as a true professional in the Industry? Start here!
In this episode, I discuss the importance of presenting yourself professionally as a makeup artist, regardless of your experience level. I share practical tips on creating a structured booking process, writing professional emails, and setting boundaries with your clients. Learn how this can influence how clients perceive and treat you.
Key Takeaways
1. Buildin
#14: 9 Must-Have Products I Use For *Almost* Every Wedding
My event/wedding season is in full swing. I wanted to share some of the products I've been using VERY frequently for these events (and on set too).
Products mentioned this episode (affiliate links below)
Mini Fan
Rare Beauty Liquid Blush in Hope, Lucky
Maybelline Superstay Powder Foundation
Face Atelier Foundation
Senna Slipcover Cream to Powder Pro Primary and Pastel Palette
L'Oreal Col
#13: Making the Most of Your Slow Periods
In this episode I discuss how to effectively manage and capitalize on slow periods in your business. Slow times are a natural part of the process and they can provide great opportunities to refine your skills, enhance your services, build your network, and strengthen your brand. I will share some actionable tips and strategies to help you turn these downtimes into
#12: Kit Essentials: Foundations Every Artist Should Have In Their Kit.
As a new makeup artist, building your kit can feel overwhelming. That's why I'm here to guide you through the process, ensuring you have the foundations (pun intended) to hit the ground running. From understanding different foundation types to setting yourself up for success without breaking the bank, I've got you covered.
Throughout the episode, I'll discuss the critical r
#11: I Did an Underwater Shoot. Let's Talk About It.
I recently got hired to do a shoot for a book cover but on this cover, the model was going to be lying in a pool full of water.
In this episode I will talk to you about:
How I was contacted about the job
Rate negotiation
Set etiquette (what to wear, what to look out for on the job)
My favourite products for a waterproof makeup application (literally).
These shoots can be so fun, but so
#10: Details In Your Makeup Application You Can't Ignore
If you have ever wondered what the difference is between an okay makeup application and an exceptional application, I can tell you first hand it's all in the details. This week I wanted to share some of the details of your makeup applications you do not want to skip over. These are all things I have been called out on at one time or another, so if you want to totally wow your cl
#9: Building Your Kit: Practical Tips For Professional Artists
I am going through the process of renovating and rebuilding my kit and I wanted to chat about what it really means to build a pro MUA kit.
Key Takeaways from this episode:
Functionality is Key: Your kit should be adapted to suit your current client roster and job demands.
Appearance Matters: Your kit speaks volumes about who you are and what you bring to the table. Keep it cle
#8: How To Network And Get Clients
You can't have one without the other. I am tackling two big topics in this episode. If you have no idea where to start finding clients or are completely overwhelmed by the thought of networking; this episode is here to help by simplifying what you need to focus on with your networking efforts. I'm all about working with intention so your time and efforts are not wasted. It's about more th
#7: Find Your Ideal Client: Game Changing Advice For Your Career
In this episode of the Artist to Artist podcast, I'm diving deep into the importance of taking the time to identify who your ideal client is. I'll guide you through some prompts to help you begin to define who your ideal client might be, and I'll share how going through this exercise led to significant opportunities in my own career.
Connect with me:
Follow Artist to Artist&nb
#6: The 4 Pillars Of Success In Makeup Artistry
Are you lost on how to grow your MUA business? In this episode I breakdown the 4 pillars of success in makeup artistry: Technique, Service, Network, and Brand. These are the 4 areas of your business that are essential for career growth. I'll breakdown each pillar and share some suggestions about working on each pillar based on where you are at in your career.
Resources for this episode:
H
#5: The Do's And Don'ts Of Building Your First MUA Kit
Building your first kit can be overwhelming, expensive, and time consuming. In this episode I'll be sharing some guiding principles that will help make the kit building process much easier. We will talk about the do's and don'ts, why it's important to invest in being prepared, and how to be financially responsible with your kit purchases.
Resources:
Product Expiry Date Lo
#4: Let's Talk About Social Media
If you aren't using social media to promote your makeup artistry business (specifically Instagram) you are missing out.
In this episode we will discuss mindset around social media, how to use instagram to market yourself and content creation tips.
Great content starts with great lighting and in this episode I mention my favourite lighting for content creation comes fr
#3: Agency Representation
Are you an MUA wondering about agency representation? This episode is for you. I will talk more about my experience being agency represented for almost 5 years, how an agency works, and i'll be answering some of the most popular questions you had for me about agency representation.
Here's what you'll learn
How you progress through an agency
What agencies actually do (and what they don't
#2: What To Expect In Your First 5 Years As A MUA
The first 5 years are tough but if I could do it all again there would be a few things I would do differently in order to make good investments with my time and money. In this episode I will review the pillars of success in makeup artistry which are the 4 areas of your business you will have to work on consistently to build your career (Technique, Service, Network and Brand).
I'll be
#1: My Story
Welcome to the Artist to Artist podcast! This is the very FIRST episode and on this episode I'll be sharing how I started my career as a full-time freelance makeup artist.
I will be chatting about:
How my very first job as a high-school student got me started in makeup artistry
How a meeting with an artist named Sheri Stroh changed the trajectory of my career
The process of getting agenc
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