Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
I am a native Angeleno, born and raised in San Dimas, California. I went to San Dimas High and then attended UC Irvine. I was trained in high fashion makeup from various makeup schools (like Chanel and Christian Dior). I also received certification in medical camouflage makeup (so that I was able to work with burn survivors). My television/film education is from Joe Blasco makeup studios.
How did you first become interested in makeup, and what led you to become a makeup artist?
I'd been fascinated by the art of makeup for as long as I can remember. As a child I would watch my mother paint her face. I was fascinated how just a pop of a bright magenta lipstick and some mascara could magically enhance her own beauty.
As far as becoming a makeup artist, actually I must say that makeup seemed to have chosen me. My "Plan A" in life was to be a rock singer and since I didn't like the idea of being a starving musician, I did makeup on the side. Little did I know that I was gaining experience and training myself for the future! After years of performing (and hitting rough times), a door opened to work on a big network show. I took the opportunity and my life forever changed. From that moment on, I decided to refocus my life towards becoming the best I could be as a professional television makeup artist.
You're the spokesperson for Luminess Air. How did you become involved with the brand, and how has this affected the work you do?
I've traveled the world and gained quite a bit of exposure working in front of the camera. A few years ago, I was involved in creating a line of brow products for a company called Chella. One day after I got back from one of these trips, the call came, literally out of the blue! I was approached by a director that was researching celebrity makeup artists with on camera experience.
The Luminess Air System is a great product. My clients love it. Even the men I groom love the look and feel of airbrush makeup on their skin. It has become my go-to on all my shows.
Luminess Air. Of course. It gives you flawless skin and couldn't be easier to use, even at home!
Dior loose powder. It has a creamy consistency and lays beautifully on the skin.
Bedhead eye pencils. They are perfect for the waterline. They don't irritate the eye and stay in place. I love the emerald green!
M.A.C Paint Pots. I used it recently on a new show that is coming out called Sing Your Face Off. This product will not move no matter what the conditions!
A great highlighter. Something that gives a glow and yet looks natural. My new favorite is Smashbox Shimmer. It's a perfect color -- kind of a nude rose/coral.
What are your top 3 makeup tips?
1) After doing your makeup always take a mirror and walk outside. Make sure that your foundation matches your neck.
2) If you want the thickest lashes possible (without using false lashes) coat BOTH sides of the lash. Use the mascara wand on top of the lash first and brush down and then lift the eye by brushing up under the lash to lift. Don't be afraid to repeat twice!
3) To make sure your lipstick doesn't come off, use a lipliner to not only line the lip but coat the entire lip. You want to start all of your lip looks with a neutral rose liner all over! After you have filled in everything you can layer a different color -- this will ensure that you always have a healthy color on your lips.
Being a makeup artist must be fun, but what do you do in your spare time?
I really enjoy what I do. I am a single mom so most of my spare time is with my little girl. I really love bike riding (especially at dusk) and gardening. I have also been writing a book and I am in the process of inventing a new beauty product. I'm excited to get both of these projects into full swing in 2014!
Be sure to follow DeeDee on Instagram and Twitter.
Fascinating interview! xx
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