Name: Caitlin Ewen
Job Title: Resident make-up Artist (MUA)
How did you get to where you are today?
I was always interested in make-up and would sit for hours trying out new things and creating different looks on myself. I was working in an office and, after two years, decided to take the plunge and have a go at making a career out of the hobby I loved. I took an intensive introduction to make-up course in London in my spare time so I would have the credentials to go with my natural talent and the skills I had built up over time. I then took an advanced make-up course in Glasgow. I learned a lot about analysing different faces and applying techniques to a range of people and face shapes. We also practiced editorial make-up for print and different themes – such as Hollywood glamour – it was all great practice for achieving looks for photo shoots and weddings. I’m very lucky to be working full-time in make-up now, making my dream a reality.
What does your job entail and what is your favourite part?
I work full-time in the salon from Bex’s Glam Bar to offer hair and make-up packages. We can do bridal make-up in or out of the salon as well various other services. For example, the Rapid Refresh offers a face freshen up, or we can help with tricky techniques such as the application of lashes or eye make-up. We, of course, also do full make-up for occasions and nights out and one-to-one tutorial sessions and Masterclasses for up to four people to teach techniques, product knowledge and how to get creative. I love doing natural, skin-focused make-up and a smoky, dramatic eye. I also help on reception too which is a great way to get to know our clients.
I feel so lucky to work as the Rebecca Carr Hair Salon resident make-up artist. It gives me the opportunity to work full-time in make-up, which is very rare in this line of work.
What is your own make-up style and how do you make sure it looks great?
I love a smoky, blown-out eye and big fluffy fake eye lashes. I also like large, natural brows.
Can you tell us about a favourite colour/style/transformation you have seen?
I think in terms of make-up eyebrows can make a big difference as they frame the entire face. I’ve seen lots of great hair changes in the salon too, but it was fun seeing one of our stylists, Kelsey, go from blonde to purple.
Who is your beauty icon?
I love the catwalk make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury – she always makes skin glow and look amazing. Also, Kim Kardashian’s make-up artist Mario Dedivanovic. Everyone thinks Kim wears a lot of make-up but she doesn’t, he is just so good at what he does and blends it all beautifully. He comes up with his own unique techniques which everyone likes to study and bring into their own makeup routines.
What is the one product you wouldn’t live without?
Fake eyelashes. I feel naked on a night out without them. I like the brands Primalash, Red Cherry and Peaches and Cream.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Mainly online, I watch a lot of YouTube make-up tutorials.
How would your family and friends describe you?
I think chatty and social, probably too chatty at times. My report card at school always said I talk too much. I’m also pretty laid back but can be a bit disorganised and forgetful.
What do you do in your spare time?
I like going out for food. Mexican is my favourite and me and my boyfriend make nachos once a week. I’m a bit of a social butterfly and generally can’t say no. FOMO (fear of missing out) is massive thing for me so I’m always at every social occasion I’m asked to.
What is the most important lesson you have learned?
Not to care so much about what other people think of you and to have confidence.
Describe working at Rebecca Carr Hair Salon in one sentence?
Fun with a family-feel.
