Finding my way back to bridal beauty – with purpose, gratitude & (hopefully) a new chapter

It’s been a while since I’ve had the time — or headspace — to sit down and really write for this blog. So, I thought now would be the perfect moment to re-introduce myself.

I’m a makeup artist, skincare enthusiast, part-time lawyer, and full-time mum. Over 12 years ago, I started Faces Makeup and Hair — a small bridal beauty team with a humble beginning and has grown into something I’m incredibly proud of.

Throughout my journey as a makeup artist, my focus has shifted with different life seasons. There were times when I poured everything into the bridal side of the business, and other times when I found myself deep in skincare research, writing blog posts about the latest trends and products. If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ve probably noticed that I’ve been fairly quiet on both fronts these past couple of years.

Life doesn’t always follow the path we imagine. I’ve had to take a step back from the makeup world – not because I lost passion for the craft, but because life demanded more of me in other ways. As a sole provider, my priority has always been my daughter. Navigating challenges, making ends meet, and ensuring she’s supported and loved has been my focus, and now, it’s this very reason that brings me back with renewed energy.

The truth is, life is getting harder – and like many parents doing it on their own, I’ve had to make tough choices. But makeup has always been more than just work for me – it’s my creative outlet, my connection to incredible people, and a way to uplift others while finding strength within myself. So here I am – back behind the chair, rebuilding not just a business, but a future for my little girl and myself.

Despite the time away, I’ve been incredibly humbled to be recognised as a Finalist in the Australian Women’s Small Business Awards 2024. To receive such an honour, even during a time when I wasn’t fully active in my business, means the world. It becomes a source of strength for me, that the work I’ve done does make an impact – and that the journey isn’t over.

During this time, my team has supported me in ways that I cannot thank them enough in words. Their effort, patience and persistence meant that Faces Makeup and Hair has kept going in the best possible way in my tough personal circumstances.

Over the coming weeks, I would be dedicating special blog posts on my team's blog to introduce each one of them.

As I 'relaunch', I’m not just returning as a solo artist surviving to get by. I want to build something bigger — a team, a community, a business with heart and purpose. I have big dreams, and they’re rooted in resilience, gratitude, and the unwavering belief that beauty can be a powerful force — not just on the outside, but in how we rise after falling. For me, my team, and as a model for my girl.

To our clients – thank you. Your support, loyalty, messages, and patience have carried me through some of the toughest times. Whether you’ve been with us from the start or are just discovering our work, thank you for believing in us.

As for this blog, I’m excited to share more regularly again — featuring a mix of my makeup artistry work, along with the occasional posts about beauty and skincare products I genuinely love and recommend. I’ll also be open to collaborating on paid content that aligns with my values and what this community cares about.

Here’s to fresh beginnings, bolder visions, and a future filled with artistry, connection, and purpose.

With love and gratitude

Stella x

---

About me

Stella Lee Makeup Artist | Sydney-based specialist bridal makeup artist and hair stylist | 19 years of experience | Founder of the award-winning bridal specialist team Faces Makeup & Hair | Available anywhere