The Makeup Insider

• What It Really Takes to Work Destination Weddings Abroad with Jacqui Bradfield

  Send us a textNavigating the European Wedding Circuit: Lessons from a Pro Makeup ArtistEpisode SummaryIn this episode of The Makeup Insider, Vanessa chats with pro makeup artist Jacqui, who recently returned from a whirlwind season working across Europe’s wedding circuit.From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustle of Rome, Jacqui shares what it’s really like to take your artistry abroad. The highs, the hurdles, and the lessons learned from nine weddings in quick succession.Whether you’re dreaming of working internationally or simply curious about life behind the scenes of destination weddings, this conversation is packed with practical advice and honest reflections from an artist who’s done it all.What We CoverHow Jacqui prepared for an international wedding seasonWhy direct flights and smart packing are non-negotiablesThe realities of driving (and surviving) Italy’s wedding circuitManaging back-to-back weddings while staying creativeJacqui’s must-have travel kit and European beauty essentialsTips for choosing accommodation and balancing work with restThe mindset shifts that come with working outside your comfort zoneKey TakeawaysPreparation meets flexibility: The most successful destination artists plan for everything — and still stay open to the unexpected.Logistics matter: Cars, accommodation, and kit safety can make or break your experience.Growth through discomfort: Every challenge abroad helps strengthen your artistry, confidence, and business mindset.Community counts: Collaborating with trusted peers (like Jacqui’s hairstylist partner Brooke) makes all the difference.Listen if You’re…A bridal makeup artist dreaming of international workCurious about the European destination wedding sceneLooking for practical travel and business advice from a working artistReady to take your artistry global — and want to know where to startConnect with JacquiFollow Jacqui’s adventures and artistry on Instagram: @jacquibradfieldmakeup @the.makeupinsiderFollow TMI on IG Follow Vanessa on IG

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• Celebrity Glam and TV Beauty: Michael Brown’s Journey from Dance to Lancôme.

  Send us a textIn this episode of The Makeup Insider, Vanessa sits down with the incredible Michael Brown, one of Australia’s most loved and trusted makeup artists.Michael’s 25-year career has taken him from a dancer in Perth to a leading Sydney-based artist, educator, and television beauty expert. Known for his versatility and genuine connection with clients, Michael shares the story of how stage makeup sparked his love for beauty, his years representing global brands like Shiseido, Lancôme, and the L’Oréal Group, and his brave leap into the freelance world.Michael opens up about overcoming personal challenges, including a severe childhood stutter, and how that journey led him to appear confidently on national television — becoming a regular on Channel Nine’s Today Extra.You’ll hear how he’s stayed relevant in an ever-changing industry, what he’s learned from two decades behind the brush, and his advice for aspiring artists wanting to carve out a long, successful career in beauty.Episode HighlightsMichael’s journey from performer to professional makeup artistOvercoming personal hurdles and finding confidence on cameraLessons learned from two decades in the beauty industryThe evolution of beauty and the importance of adaptabilityBuilding a reputation and network that lastsWhy personality and professionalism are just as important as artistryConnect with Michael BrownInstagram: @michaelbrownbeautyWebsite: [email protected] TMI on IG Follow Vanessa on IG

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• Elevating Your Content Game – The Four Must-Have Content Types with Suz Chadwick

  Send us a textIn this episode of The Makeup Insider, I’m joined by personal branding and business coach Suz Chadwick to break down the four essential content types every creator needs to master. Whether you’re a makeup artist building your portfolio or a creative entrepreneur growing your digital presence, these content strategies will help you stand out, connect deeply with your audience, and build a brand that sells.What We Cover in This Episode:Authority Content – how to showcase your credibility and expertise through behind-the-scenes, testimonials, and client experiences.Personal Brand Content – why sharing your quirks, passions, and personal stories makes your brand memorable.Value & Teaching Content – the importance of tutorials, tips, and insights that position you as a go-to resource.Commentary Content – how to add your voice to industry trends and conversations to build thought leadership.Why You’ll Love This Episode:Suz shares practical, actionable advice on weaving these content types into your strategy so you can mix things up, stay relevant, and keep your audience engaged. This isn’t about creating more content, it’s about creating smarter, stickier content that builds connection and loyalty.Links & Resources:Connect with Suz Chadwick: @suzchadwickSuz Podcast Episode For more insights, visit the blog: Suz Blog If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review The Makeup Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. And don’t forget to share it with a friend who’s ready to take their content game to the next [email protected] TMI on IG Follow Vanessa on IG

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• The Business of Bridal: Pricing Strategies with Vanessa, Megan & Adele

  Send us a textIn this episode, Vanessa chats with bridal makeup artists Megan and Adele about the realities of working in the bridal industry. You’ll hear:Getting started in bridal makeup – how retail counters, experimentation, and building a signature style lay the foundation.Pricing strategies – packages vs à la carte, setting fair yet sustainable rates, and communicating transparently with clients.Managing extras – travel, accommodation, and why clear boundaries upfront matter.Marketing & branding – building a reputation, using high-quality visuals, and keeping the client at the heart of your brand.Education & networking – the value of workshops, mentoring, and shadowing experienced artists at weddings.Digital tools & trends – how embracing content creation and online platforms can grow your reach and client base.Lessons learned – the balance between artistry, business, and heart in bridal beauty.Whether you’re a new artist, or an industry pro, this conversation will give you insights, tips, and inspiration from three different journeys in bridal makeup.The Bridal Edit by Adele @the.makeupinsiderFollow TMI on IG Follow Vanessa on IG

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• Navigating the World of Creative Representation with Dolores Lavin

  Send us a textIn 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 [email protected] TMI on IG Follow Vanessa on IG

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