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In this episode, Maddy Baucia returns after an incredible season completing 110 weddings across Tuscany, Umbria, and stunning destinations including the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, and Sicily. She shares the realities behind such a high-volume year: the logistics, the challenges, the systems she relied on, and the lessons she’ll carry forward.
We dive into how she plans to reduce her workload to 80 weddings next season, restructure her pricing, streamline her business model, and step away from team-based operations. Maddy also shares the importance of managing her physical and mental health, staying organised while constantly travelling, and refining her backend systems to create a more sustainable business.
This episode is a must-listen for artists working in or aspiring to enter the destination wedding space.
Topics Covered
Challenges and Support Systems
Travel and Logistics - where to base yourself
Adjusting Future Plans
Pricing and Booking Strategies
Future Goals and System Improvements
Standing Out in the Industry
Showcasing Personality on Social Media
Building Trust with Destination Brides
Using Facebook Groups for Destination Work
Advice for Aspiring Destination Wedding Artists
Coaching Calls for Wedding Artists
Travel Fees and Pricing Psychology
Trends in European Wedding Locations
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Navigating the European Wedding Circuit: Lessons from a Pro Makeup Artist
Episode Summary
In 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 Cover
How Jacqui prepared for an international wedding season
Why direct flights and smart packing are non-negotiables
The realities of driving (and surviving) Italy’s wedding circuit
Managing back-to-back weddings while staying creative
Jacqui’s must-have travel kit and European beauty essentials
Tips for choosing accommodation and balancing work with rest
The mindset shifts that come with working outside your comfort zone
Key Takeaways
Preparation 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 work
Curious about the European destination wedding scene
Looking for practical travel and business advice from a working artist
Ready to take your artistry global — and want to know where to start
Connect with Jacqui
Follow Jacqui’s adventures and artistry on Instagram: @jacquibradfieldmakeup 
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In 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 Highlights
Michael’s journey from performer to professional makeup artist
Overcoming personal hurdles and finding confidence on camera
Lessons learned from two decades in the beauty industry
The evolution of beauty and the importance of adaptability
Building a reputation and network that lasts
Why personality and professionalism are just as important as artistry
Connect with Michael Brown
Instagram: @michaelbrownbeauty

Website: michaelbrownbeauty.com.au
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In 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: @suzchadwick
Suz 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 level.
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In 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 
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