Being a Makeup Artist: About me
For over a decade, being a makeup artist has been more than just a career for me – it has been my passion, my creativity and a way to help primarily women feel confident and beautiful while still feeling like themselves. As a luxury makeup artist and creative beauty director covering the North East and North Yorkshire, I specialise in timeless polished makeup that enhances natural beauty whilst feeling modern, elevated and glamorous. You will never find me sharing “trend” posts or looks on social media for “likes”… you will find me quietly confident in sharing classic red carpet inspired makeup, attracting the right clientele for me, who appreciate quality and expertise rather than a one-size fits all approach or a trend look that will inevitably age poorly very quickly.
My style has always centred around skin-first beauty. I love creating radiant, glowing complexions, soft features and makeup that looks flawless both in person and in photographs. Whether I am working on a bridal look, luxury soft glam, editorial beauty or occasion makeup, my aim is always the same – to make my clients feel like the very best versions of themselves. I’ve never believed in masking someone behind heavy makeup or following trends that will quickly date. Instead I focus on timeless beauty that feels elegant, sophisticated and tailored to each individual sitting in the chair.
Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of brides and clients across the UK, becoming known for my calm approach and attention to detail. Bridal makeup is especially close to my heart because I understand how important these moments are. Being trusted to be part of someone’s wedding morning is something I never take for granted. I love creating a space that feels relaxed and enjoyable while applying makeup that allows my brides to feel confident from morning to night.
Alongside my bridal work, my career has expanded in to editorial beauty, commercial projects, creative direction, makeup education and beauty content creation. I frequently share beauty tutorials, professional makeup tips and product recommendations online through my instagram where I have built a wonderful community of beauty lovers who connect with my signature aesthetic and honest approach to makeup.
One of my biggest achievements in my career has been receiving recognition within the beauty and wedding industries through multiple national award wins. I am incredibly proud to have won 25 industry awards for both my makeup artistry and business for North East, North Yorkshire and overall UK regions.
Some of the awards throughout my career have included “Freelance Specialist Makeup Artist of the Year” and “Creative Makeup Artist of the Year” at English Makeup Awards, “Best Bespoke Makeup Artist of the Year” at the Lux Global Wedding Awards and “Makeup Artist of the Year” at the Yorkshire Prestige Awards. These achievements mean so much to me because they reflect not only my work but my business ethics and experience I work hard to provide to my clients.
I am also passionate about helping women feel confident at every age and stage of life, which is why mature skin has become an area I particularly love working in. I truly believe makeup should feel empowering rather than overwhelming, and I enjoy sharing techniques that create fresh, luminous skin without looking heavy or overdone. Through both my client work and educational content, I aim to make beauty feel approachable, luxurious and confidence boosting. If you are interesting in updating your look and refreshing your makeup techniques, why not book one of my very popular private makeup lessons.
As my career evolved, I also stepped further in to the beauty industry through brand collaborations and a Creative Beauty Editor role for luxury print British Muse magazine. Becoming a Charlotte Tilbury brand ambassador has been another exciting milestone for me and aligns perfectly with my love for beautiful makeup.
What I love most about my job is the connection I build with my clients. I have had some regulars which have been with me right from the very start of my business. Many brides book me through seeing my work at another wedding or event – and there is no bigger compliment than being recommended by someone who has experienced my work firsthand. For me, makeup is never about following social media trends – its about confidence, artistry and making someone feel amazing in their skin.
After more than 10 years in the beauty industry, I still feel as passionate about my work as I did when I first started. Every face, every project inspires me creatively and I feel incredibly grateful to call this work.
To book a studio appointment with me please BOOK HERE and if you would like to enquire about availability and pricing for your wedding, please email me with your date, venue and bridal party details to hello@gemmaclarkmakeup.com.
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