Okay, let’s talk about something that really helped me take my makeup artistry to the next level—connecting with other creatives. Building a solid network isn’t just about following people online or showing up at events. It’s about forming real relationships, and honestly, some of my best work came from being part of local artist groups. Here’s how you can do it, too:
- Start Showing Up at Local Events
I’ll be the first to admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect at my first makeup artist meetup. But let me tell you, it was everything. These local events—whether it’s a small workshop, a fashion show, or even just a casual get-together—are packed with opportunities. You meet people, see how they work, and get a feel for their vibe. That’s where I met a photographer who ended up becoming a regular collaborator. It’s all about being there and putting yourself out there. - Hit Up Social Media to Find Groups Nearby
If you haven’t already, get on Facebook, Instagram, and even LinkedIn. There are always groups out there for local artists. I found a Facebook group for makeup artists in my area and thought it would be just another thing to scroll past—but nope, it led to collaborations, job opportunities, and even a solid group of friends. It’s wild how much you can find just by being active online. There are local pages for everything—clients looking for makeup artists, other artists looking to collaborate, or even places where people just share tips. Trust me, the connections are waiting for you. - Engage Like You Mean It
Joining a group isn’t enough. You have to actually be there. The best part about these groups? It’s all about giving, not just taking. Don’t just post your work and disappear. Share advice, ask questions, engage in conversations. Honestly, this is how I made a name for myself in local circles. People started recognizing me as someone who genuinely cared, not just someone there to promote themselves. And it pays off—big time. When you show up consistently, the relationships you build feel real, and that makes all the difference. - Collaborate, Collaborate, Collaborate
Here’s the secret sauce: Collaborations. When you work with photographers, hairstylists, models, or even fashion designers, you’re not just expanding your portfolio—you’re expanding your reach. I can’t tell you how many new clients I’ve gotten just from doing a styled shoot with a local boutique. We all promote the final product, tag each other, and boom, everyone gets a little love. It’s not about competition, it’s about growth. Teamwork makes the dream work, right? - Be the One Who Lifts Others Up
Here’s a little nugget I learned along the way: when you help others, they’ll help you too. It’s not about being selfish or waiting for something in return. Whether it’s recommending someone for a gig or shouting out another artist on your Insta, supporting others makes them more likely to support you back. And I’m telling you, that positivity flows. Every time I’ve helped someone, whether it’s giving advice or sharing their work, it always comes back in ways I didn’t expect. You’ll start seeing a real sense of community grow around you.
So, if you’re looking to level up your career, start building those connections—don’t wait for them to come to you. Show up, support others, and take the time to create genuine collaborations. Your network is your net worth, and if you nurture it the right way, amazing things will start to happen. I promise you won’t regret it.
