Name: Danielle McLay
Location: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
QC Courses taken:
Facebook: facebook.com/merakiartistryhairandmakeup/
Instagram: @meraki__artistry
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m as bright and bubbly as they come! I am a super positive, enthusiastic, and passionate person, and I have an absolute love for all things hair and makeup! I’m a hairdresser by trade and got my makeup certification through QC Makeup Academy. I absolutely love my job!
Why did you decide to go into makeup artistry? What about it appeals to you?
I think everyone is beautiful. We all have something to offer the world! Confidence is another thing. When I’m able to transform someone and highlight all their beauty, it gives them a huge amount of confidence in themselves—I just love being able to do that!
We know you love transforming brides for their special day! Has any appointment not gone according to plan?
Oh boy! I was making up a bride once, and she was given the news that her florist had forgotten to make her order and her flowers were not coming! Luckily, she was an absolute trooper and was fairly calm, but I was the one with her. When you’re with a makeup client, not only are you her bridal makeup artist but you’re also her support! I talked her through it calmly and everything worked out well in the end. But always be prepared for anything!
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before starting your makeup training?
Don’t be afraid to charge a high price! Makeup is expensive! You use high quality makeup and a lot of your time goes into it! If you feel bad and don’t set your makeup services prices right, you will just end up failing. Know your worth!
How do you think QC Makeup Academy has prepared you for working in the field?
The school taught me everything I know! From how to shape eyebrows to how to start your makeup business—I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for QC!
You do special effects makeup artistry from time to time. Are you expanding your range of makeup services?
I love special FX makeup! I would love to look into it more in the future, but for right now, weddings and formal events are my main priority.
If you could only use one makeup product for the rest of your life, what would it be?
RCMA foundation is my Holy Grail! It’s wax-based so it literally lasts forever. No flash-back and it just gives the most beautiful full coverage!
