Why La Belle Makeup Artistry? La Belle means "the beautiful one" in French. On your wedding day, you want to feel and look beautiful.

I am an independent freelance makeup artist based out of San Diego, California. I have a passion for art and found that this 'passion' can be conveyed in many different ways. Although I have experience in graphic and web design, I knew that my artistic versatility and creativity can be applied to other artforms.

I attended modeling school at the age of sixteen and while learning about modeling, I was also taught the basics of bone structure, skin care, and makeup application. I am a driven individual and I took the intiative to learn on my own, therefore I am primarily self-taught. I learned by practicing on myself and with friends and family, networking, reading, researching, and copying looks from fashion magazines.

I purchased beauty and makeup related books and used them as a reference. My favorite book of all time is Making Faces by the very talented Kevyn Aucoin. I consider myself very artistic in nature and my attention to detail plays a major part when applying makeup.

I started my family at a young age and have not pursued my career in graphic design (other than freelancing) and makeup. For over 6 years I have been working in an office environment, and I knew that this wasn't the "career" I wanted for myself. So in 2005, I realized where my true passion lies...in makeup.

I've never worked with a cosmetic company and I mainly freelance. Freelancing gives me the opportunity to work around my personal schedule as it's easier for me to juggle my career with my family life.

I have volunteered with several beauty pageants within San Diego and have worked as an independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay. I work a lot with brides and in weddings as well as with models and photographers.

Although I am primarily self-taught, I have taken courses in makeup. I've attended the MAC Pro workshop for bridal makeup as well as the Asian Eyes workshop in Los Angeles. I am also a certified makeup artist through the Expert Rating program.

I also have a makeup artist assistant, who also is a licensed aesthetician. She can answer all of your skin care concerns and needs.

PRODUCTS I USE & CARRY

I believe every makeup artist should be versatile when it comes to their kit. I only carry industsry professional products, such as, M.A.C., Smashbox, Stila, Makeup Forever, just to name a few. I have a range of eyeshadows, primers, concealers and more to ensure that I can work with every skin color and type. I own my own airbrush gun and compressor.

I know how to do my own makeup. Why hire a professional makeup artist?

It is recommended a professional makeup artist does your makeup. Only a professional has the skill and knowledge to know what is best for your skin and facial features and know what products are suitable for the camera. You want to look your absolute best on and off camera and only a professional knows how to do just that!

What is a trial session?

Trial sessions are conducted to apply different styles of makeup. We will also go over your personal style, your concerns and anything else you would like to cover. Trials are recommended at least 2-3 months prior to the wedding. Trial sessions are conducted in my home, however, I provide on location services on your wedding day.

I'm comparing prices for makeup artists. Can I request a price quote?

Absolutely! I offer complimentary price quotes for you. My quotes are very detailed and specific so that nothing is left out.

I'm on a budget, can you reduce your prices for me or take payment plans?

While I understand weddings are expensive and brides are on a budget, my prices are based on many factors, such as the current market and cost of supplies and makeup. I understand that everyone wants to adhere to their budget, but clients must also understand that this is my full-time job as a makeup artist. However, please don't be discouraged to contact me and perhaps we can work something out.

What is your cancellation policy?

You may cancel at any time for any reason and a request for cancellation must be made in writing and signed by both parties. The security deposit is non-refundable.

What hygenic precautions do you take?

Your safety is the utmost importance to La Belle Makeup Artistry. Sanitation is my first priority with all of my makeup. All of my brushes and tools are disinfected before and after every use and I use disposable applicators as well. I sanitize and clean all products after every use. I always use hand sanitizer to ensure that my hands are clean when working with your skin.

MY PERSONAL GOAL

Using my skills and knowledge, I would love to enhance your natural beauty. Makeup was not designed to hide your flaws, but to enhance your attributes. Makeup is supposed to make you feel beautiful and bulid your self-esteem. When doing your makeup, I want people to recognize YOU, not just your makeup!

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

2006 - Make-up Art Cosmetics (MAC)
2006 - Nixie Cosmetics
2006 - NARS Cosmetics
2006 - Benefit Cosmetics
2006 - Stila Cosmetics
2008 - FACEAltier Cosmetics
2008 - Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
2008 - Artistan Cosmetics

TESTIMONIALS

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"Melissa - thank you very much for doing my makeup for my special day. You made me feel like a princess! My bridal party and my mom also looked so beautiful. Our pictures turned out great. Thank you for your professionalism and your expertise in makeup! I highly recommend her to all you brides-to-be!" - Christine (Wedding, May 2009)

"Thank you for your professionalism and beautiful work! You were great and I felt so beautiful on my wedding day. " - Alicia W. (Wedding, June 2009)

"Melissa did an awesome job! She worked quickly and is so professional! I found on her on Craigslist and although there were so many makeup artists advertising, I chose Melissa because of the quality of work I saw on her website. Thank you so much - you did a fantastic job and I will recommend you to my family and friends!" - Ashley C. (Wedding, July 2009)

"Thank you for your wonderful services during my wedding. You and your assistant were both professional and fun! My bridal party & I were all pleased with our makeup! I emailed my friend an unprofessional photo of me from the wedding. I was happy when she pointed out my makeup looked great!! I thank you again for your courteous, prompt, professional and affordable makeup services. I would recommend you any day!" - Christie Nelson-Ford (Wedding, July 2009)

"Melissa is an absolute delight! She's so fun to work with and is also very professional! She did makeup for me and my friends for my bachlorette party. I'm glad we decided to get "glammed" up for my party! It made my night more eventful and fun. Thanks so much and I'm looking forward for her to do my makeup on my big day!!" - Chelsea Morris (Wedding, July 2009)

"Melissa was great right from the beginning! She was very friendly at the trial, worked with me on pricing and makeup changes. She made sure to keep me looking natural for my husband and the bridemaids were just as stunning. Melissa is sweet, funny, and extremely talented. Plus, she has very competitive pricing. We all looked so beautiful thanks to her!" - Kristina (Wedding, August 2009)