Amelia Webb is one of the most sought after and in demand make-up artists and hairstylists in Melbourne! She has used Instagram to her advantage and utilises the platform to create amazing content and tutorials for her followers. Keep up to date with her via @makeupbyameliawebb on the ‘gram. 

If you’re in Melbourne and want to book her for your wedding or special event, get It touch with her: makeupbyameliawebb@gmail.com.

You can also view her beauty tutorials on her YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9OJObQSD7miRkjl5CbKVuw

Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Amelia! Firstly, tell us what inspired you to become a makeup artist and hairstylist? 

Ever since I was a little girl I have loved makeup and hair. It has always been a hobby and passion of mine. Once I reached my twenties, I needed a career change and made the leap to become a qualified makeup artist. I studied this while working full time in office admin and then became so busy with my freelance career I finally resigned from my full-time role as an Executive Assistant, to become a full time freelance makeup artist and haven’t looked back. 

How many years have you been in the industry for? How did you start off your career and get into the industry?

I began my career in 2013 as a part time makeup artist. I did this for two years and then went full time in 2015. This gave me the opportunity to work with a number of large clients like Mimco, Cotton On and many various online boutiques, which was an amazing experience. I have made some amazing relationships with my clients, which has given me a lot of exposure within the industry. 

Did you always envisage working for yourself? How did you make your dream a reality?

I never ever would have thought I’d be working for myself! I didn’t think it was possible to be honest, I have surprised myself. I have been out on my own for 3 years now and it has been the most amazing journey. Don’t get me wrong, there have been some bumps in the road and some extremely long hours, long weeks and hard work but this has made me the business owner I am today. Hard work and determination while working my dream job has made this a reality. 

How has social media played a role in the growth of your business and personal brand?

Social media has played a HUGE role in the growth of my business. All my recent work and clients are updated regularly on my Instagram account. I love Instagram as it is a platform where I can share my creativity with my following. I love having the engagement with my following and love assisting in any hair or makeup questions. 

Do you have any tips for girls who are keen to grow their Instagram following and promote their business on the platform?

My key tip for growing your Instagram and promoting your business is to just be YOU and don’t compare yourself to any other accounts. 

This was something I did constantly when I first started my Instagram and I was feeling like I wasn’t good enough. I was comparing myself to the accounts of girls that had been in the industry a lot longer than me, which didn’t help my personal growth. If you are passionate about the content you are creating, it will show, and people will love what you do. I have had my Instagram account for 5 years now, so hard work does pay off.  

Engagement with your following is also super important. I love when a follower makes a comment on my posts or sends me a DM message - positive or negative. They have gone out of their way to say something nice about my work or ask me a beauty question and I am always happy to help where I can.  

What is the best part about your job? 

The best part about my job is making someone feel like their best self. Most weekends I am lucky enough to be a part of someone’s wedding day, which I am so thankful for. The fact that my clients have the trust in me to create the perfect look on the biggest day of their life, is amazing.

What’s been your career highlight in make-up and hair?

My career highlight so far would have to be running my own business full time. 

Which part do you find the hardest / most challenging? 

The hardest and most challenging part is not being able to say yes to everyone. Since I am a ‘one man show’, it’s hard to be available for every job (I wish I could say yes to everyone). I hate letting people down when I am not available. 

What is the best piece of advice you have received during your journey in business? 

Never compare your work to anyone else in the Industry. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. 

What’s the greatest thing you’ve learned during your career?

Taking risks makes you stronger and mistakes only makes you wiser. You learn from them which only makes you a better business owner. 

You do a LOT of weddings. What’s the most frequently requested hair look for brides and bridesmaids you get?

I find the most frequently requested hair look, is the ‘Hollywood wave’. This style is super elegant and very popular at the moment. 

What is your number one tip for brides to be, who want to ensure their hair and skin is on point before you look after them on their big day?

Frequent skin treatments months before the wedding day is super important. Facial treatments like chemical peels and Microdermabrasion are super popular before the big day. 

What is you favourite beauty trick?

Applying an overnight lip treatment before you start your makeup will hydrate your lips so much quicker, before lipstick is added. This will prevent dry, cracked lips and help your lipstick last throughout the entire day/night. 

One of my favourite products is the Lip De-Luscious Treatmentby MECCA.

What is your favourite and most underrated make-up product, that girls need to get their hands on?

NYX Cosmetics have an amazing lipstick range and its super affordable. 

What about your go-to drug store beauty product, for gals on a budget?

Maybelline Great Lash Mascara Very Black (Waterproof)Does not budge and is only about $7.95!

Which hair trend are you loving right now? 

SLEEK glossy hair. 

Which hair trend do you wish would go away / never come back? 

NONE... I love them all!

Which make up trends are your favourite at the moment, and which ones do you wish would disappear? 

I am a sucker for colour at the moment. KKW have bought out an electric blue shadow that I need to create a look on ASAP. I wish the Instagram ‘contour look’ would disappear. 

What would we find you doing when you're not working? 

You would find me creating new content and preparing for new tutorials on my Instagram. This is a huge passion of mine! I love sitting down and researching new trends and products I can use in my upcoming work.  

What is your favourite product from the Hello Hair range? 

OBSESSED with the Hello Hair Hydrating Mask and Blonde Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner. My hair honestly feels SOOO amazing after using both these products. 

What is next for you and your business in 2018 and beyond?

YOUTUBE TUTORIALS (watch this space)