How To Be A Beauty Boss

Four make - up artists we love let us in on how they got to where they are now

SANDHYA SHEKAR

GRAZIA: What was the first step you took when you decided to be a make-up artist?

SANDHYA SHEKAR: I quit my job at a banking firm and then researched where I wanted to do my make-up course from. Then, I pretty much left everything and dived straight into it.

G: Did you do a professional course?

SS: Yes. Initially, I knew a hair and make-up artist back in Bangalore, so I did a short course under him. Then, I went to London School of Beauty and Make-Up for a one-month course. I came back to Bombay and did another professional course with Nahush Pise. I still try to do courses every year or attend short masterclasses, trade shows and exhibitions.

G: What was your first big break?

SS: I guess my first big break was the first independent job that I got. I think it was a promo for MTV. Another fond memory I have is of my first fashion editorial – it was with Grazia.

G: What has been the highlight of your career so far?

SS: Doing Deepika Padukone’s makeup for this year’s MET Gala. It’s every make-up artist’s dream to work on the Oscars or the MET Gala. And I’m very privileged and grateful that I got that chance this year.

G: Three products that never leave your kit...

SS: Shu Uemura Lash Curler, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè, Luma cheek and lip tint. I’d like to add one more – a good eyebrow fixer.

KRITIKA GILL

GRAZIA: What was the first step you took when you decided you wanted to be a make-up artist?