SPOTLiGHT ON: VANESSA MURPHY
Glasgow based make-up artist Vanessa Murphy has flourished since starting her own business in 2016. In just under two years, she’s gone from doing friends’ make-up before a night out to becoming a brand ambassador for Get Lashed. With her own Youtube channel full of easy-to-follow tutorials, Vanessa has made a name for herself on the beauty scene as one to watch. Now offering full make-up lessons alongside her other services, clients can learn how to recreate her signature GLOW-y looks at home. GiRLZINE caught up with Vanessa for an insight into her fabulous world.
How did you initially become interested in make-up?
I’ve been interested in makeup since I was about 14 years old. I went through a kind of emo/goth phase in school which allowed me to experiment with crazy looks and eyeliner (safe to say it was a hot mess!) but since then, I’ve taught myself through watching YouTube videos and perfected my techniques.
When did you realise that there was the potential to turn your talent into a business, and how did you start?
It started with my close friends and cousins asking me to do their makeup in around 2016. When I uploaded pictures of it, more people would ask me if I was taking appointments. At first, I said no because I didn’t think I was good enough but after practicing some more, I started agreeing to it.
How important would you say social media such as Instagram has been to you in starting your business?
It’s really important for me! It allows me to showcase my work as well as follow similar makeup artists to keep up with trends and techniques. It also allows for quicker bookings.
What's your favourite look to do?
I really love sticking to neutrals. I love doing glam/glitter looks on my clients and being creative but for myself I always stick with browns.
Who would you say were your inspirations?
My YouTube inspiration has got to be Carli Bybel as she was the first person I watched. However, I’ve since found a lot of inspiration on Instagram eg. @staceymariemua
Who would be your dream client?
I would love to do Kim Kardashian’s makeup as she is becoming a huge influence on the beauty community. Plus, she’s gorgeous.
What are your favourite products - either make-up or skin care?
Laura Geller champagne primer, Garnier micellar water, aloe vera gel, witch hazel.... the list goes on!
Do you think it's easy enough for people to try and recreate these looks at home on a tighter budget?
Definitely! Lots of brands, especially cheaper brands, are constantly working on their formulas. Makeup revolution and even Primark makeup is becoming high quality and popular Youtubers are supporting them.
How do you manage running a business at such a young age, and juggling it with your studies?
As my business is more popular at the weekend rather than during the week, it’s quite easy for me to manage!
Now that you're becoming more successful, does it ever feel like work?
Not really, the only time it feels like work is when I’m out on a Friday night knowing that I have makeup appointments early next morning. But when the time comes, I love it!
There has been some criticism directed towards the growth of make-up culture, with some viewing it as an oppressive aspect of the patriarchy. What would you say to that?
I don’t understand this way of thinking even in the slightest! I wear more makeup when I’m hanging out with my girl friends than my boyfriend at times. It's not about impressing boys, it’s about feeling confident in yourself!
What advice would you give to a young girl who wanted to follow in your footsteps?
I would say that if you’re expecting to have a popular Instagram page with 200K+ followers it’s most definitely not going to happen overnight. The industry is really competitive and you’ll find yourself becoming disheartened with the amount of amazing artists out there, but you need to remember that it’s always a work in progress. Always believe in yourself and you’ll get there!
✨ Check out her stunning orange eye make up tutorial ✨