Posted on January 08 2023
As a freelance makeup artist, it's important to diversify your income streams and reduce your business expenses. Here are a few tips to help you survive and thrive in 2023:
Niche services:
Specialise in a particular service or type of makeup application. This will help you stand out from the competition and attract clients who are willing to pay for your expertise.
When you niche your services, you focus on a specific area or type of makeup application, such as bridal makeup, special effects makeup, or editorial makeup.
This allows you to build up a strong portfolio and reputation in that particular area, which can attract more high-paying clients.
Marketing to brands who outsource:
Identify businesses that frequently outsource makeup services and market your services to them.
Do your research. Find out which brands are outsourcing their beauty needs, and target them specifically.
Create a strong portfolio. Make sure you showcase your work in the best possible light, so that brands can see your talent and potential.
Many artists pivot their businesses and build a successful stream of income through this method. Make sure your portfolio aligns with the needs of your target brands.
Diversify your skill set:
It's not enough to simply know how to apply makeup. Offer other services such as hair styling or skincare consultations. This will make you more attractive to potential clients.
Take courses in hair styling. Many freelance makeup artists also offer hair styling services. By expanding your skill set to include hair, you'll be able to offer a one-stop shop for all your clients' beauty needs.
Get certified in airbrush makeup. Airbrush makeup is becoming increasingly popular, so it's worth getting certified in this technique. This will make you more marketable to clients who are looking for this type of service.
Weddings, fashion shows and campaigns are continuous, but buyers may be looking to cut budgets this year. Expanding the services that you offer and the markets you work in can help you book more jobs.
Reduce your business expenses:
As a freelance makeup artist, it's important to keep your business expenses low in order to survive and thrive in 2023. One way to do this is by avoiding unnecessary costs, such as renting a studio space or buying expensive equipment.
Invest in quality, versatile products. When choosing makeup and skincare products, look for multipurpose items that will save you time and money in the long run.
Use technology to your advantage. There are a number of helpful apps and online tools available to freelance makeup artists, so be sure to take advantage of them!
Networking:
As a freelance makeup artist, networking is key to success in 2023. By building relationships with other professionals in the industry, you'll be able to get your foot in the door with top brands and clients.
Attend industry events and meet other makeup artists. This will help you build relationships and expand your network.
Stay connected. Once you've made a connection, be sure to follow up and stay in touch! Send occasional emails or messages, and stay up-to-date with their work.
Increase your rates:
As you gain experience and build your portfolio, you can start charging higher rates.
Increasing your rates will also provide long term stability. Not all clients will be willing, or able, to pay the higher fees, but more selective work can mean a better quality standard for you.
Raise your rates gradually. If you're worried about losing clients, start by raising your rates by a small amount and see how it goes. If all goes well, you can continue to raise them incrementally over time.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to success as a freelance makeup artist in 2023!
To learn more about the school or join meet with our Pro Team Backstage Artists, contact one of our friendly team on 0121 224 7707 or info@centralschoolofmakeup.co.uk
