Lately, I’ve been on a kick of dishing out tips to help clients plan for their weddings and portrait sessions, so it’s only natural I start a Vendor Crush series on my blog. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some incredibly talented and professional creatives in the Philadelphia wedding and portrait industry. And I’d love nothing more than to share some of my favorite Vendor Crushes, that I love to refer over and over again, with you all!
Today, I’m crushing on Erica Nikole ❤️! Erica is a talented and inspirational makeup artist, with a studio in the Philadelphia area. I love working side by side with Erica as she brings out the beauty in women. It’s a joy to see how women are empowered with confidence and excitement for their session once she puts her brushes down.
Take some time to get to know a bit more about Erica, in our Q&A sessions below:
1. How long have you been in business?
I’ve been in the makeup industry for six years. I started off as a MAC girl and eventually graduated to a full-time makeup artist under my own personal brand.
2. What got you interested in starting your business?
It was honestly a mistake! Everyone always finds it humorous how I actually got started. A friend of my family was getting married and was having a super intimate and small wedding. She asked me if I would be willing to do her makeup for it because she always admired how I did my own. Up until this point, I always had a love for all things beauty, but never wished to do it as a profession however, I agreed. I showed up that day with whatever I already had in my personal makeup kit and created a look to the best of my abilities! Once finished, I can’t lie, it looked GOOD! I took a few photos and uploaded them to my social network sites. Almost immediately, I had women asking to book appointments with me! I was completely floored! With the push from my husband and family, I started to dabble in the field and soon realized that I loved it! I had found my passion and haven’t stop living in it since!
3. What do you enjoy most about working in the wedding and portrait industry?
I truly enjoy enhancing the beauty of others and seeing their faces light up with admiration of themselves. I am a avid fanatic of all things ‘love’ related so weddings will always hold a special place in my heart. Being able to be apart of such a monumental day gives me so much joy!
4. What do you think the biggest difference is between beauty makeup for portrait sessions and everyday makeup?
The biggest difference is definitely the amount of makeup. For beauty looks to translate correctly through a professional lens, a little more makeup than what is needed for a everyday look is necessary. People have no idea how much professional lens magnify any and every blemish or sign of texture on the skin. To prevent this, the artist may have to provide more coverage than the client is used to. Your images will thank you for the added enhancement. Trust me!
5. When meeting with clients, what is the biggest tip you find yourself giving them?
The biggest tip that I give is to come prepared when meeting. I always recommend bringing images of inspiration and their outfit and hair choices. All of these play into the cohesiveness of your total look.
6. What are some of your favorite makeup trends right now?
I am loving how important flawless skin is right now! So many brands are releasing new foundation formulas and shades to better suit the market! There is literally a color and formula for everyone at this point!
7. Do you provide on-location makeup services for your clients?
I provide on-location and in-studio services! I also offer destination wedding services.
8. How far in advance should clients book your services?
It’s never too early to book! I always recommend to book as early as possible however, never hesitate to reach out regarding last minute appointments. I try my best to accommodate everyone.
9. Tell us one thing we might not otherwise know about you.
I am a mother of two and a bonus and a wife of seven years! Family is majorly important to me and the driving force behind my brand!
Make sure you click over to Makeup by Erica Nicole’s website to see more of Erica’s beautiful work. You can also find her instagram profile at @ericanikole!
