Meet Elizabeth McIlheran | Makeup/Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth McIlheran and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elizabeth, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Makeup was always about connection and community for me. When I started my own business. I was a newly single mom with an amazing little girl. I had just left a religious community, and was lacking the support I desperately needed. I started freelancing as a makeup artist after making some amazing connections with local photographers and other local businesses. I quickly learned that self employment was a path to a better life for me. Once I got a taste of being my own boss, there was no going back.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My educational background is in studio/fine art. I spent a couple of years at a local college taking every art class I could attend, I learned the basics rules of visual design and color theory that way. Before I was doing makeup on others I was learning how to draw and paint faces. I was really drawn to portraiture and abstract expression, always trying to find ways I could combine the two. I really found my passion when I switched industries and started pursuing cosmetic artistry. The first year I spent working as a makeup artist at a makeup counter I was exposed to such a wide range and variety of clients. Very early on I decided to take a minimalist approach with makeup application. A complaint I often heard from the other side of the makeup chair, “It doesn’t look like me” or “this doesn’t look like my face” Over time, I learned what questions would help gauge what the client really wanted, But I really made listening to my clients the biggest priority. I think my listening skill really expedited my learning process and set me apart professionally. Once I started freelancing for Bridals in addition to my own clients. I found that the happiest clients were the ones I inspired to be a little more confident in themselves. Regardless of how much makeup they wore. I think what sets my brand a part is that I truly believe every person is beautiful, I’m willing to go that extra mile to show you just how much you deserve to be confident and happy with yourself. My clients are worth it!

I’m going on my fourth year for my business. Getting through the first year of the pandemic was really hard, I definitely had moments where I’ve questioned if I’m pursuing the right path. I keep telling myself you can quit or keep going, and both hurt. There’s days where I cry tears of joy and tears of despair. But every day I get to work with my clients I am just so grateful I kept going, and didn’t give up on myself or my business.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would spend quite a bit of time outside or on the water, I hate to admit it but I’m the typical Austinite in that sense. We have so many natural resources and beautiful land that surrounds my city. It really is my favorite part of living here. Emma long park or Krause springs are great recommendations, I spent a lot of time on the lake or near the water here in the summer. I would probably take them to south Congress or South first street, the latter is my preference since it’s a little less busy. I would try to make it out to Passport Vintage, especially for the weekend pop up markets. I really love the thriving Vintage community here and I’d want to share that with my friends. I’d take them to the home-slice on north loop, my daughter loves the atmosphere with their outdoor seating and the whole menu is amazing. Taquero Mucho when we’re ready to have a good time, and a drink of course. Any business that is all Pink I am there! I’d tell them to make the Blanton museum a high priority. It’s a local gem and I have so many great memories there.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Todd White. He believed in my passion and abilities when no one knew my name. I’m forever grateful for his friendship. He’s been the friend that always has positive things to say about me and my work in a room full of peers. The longer I have worked independently the more grateful I am for people like him!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethan_atx/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethanatx

Image Credits
Photo by Evelyn Rude for K of Koi series (Orange makeup) Ian Ferrel photograph of Torre Blake (Rainbow background) Todd White’s photograph of Dashe’s green sequin gown gown on model Jada Jones