Becoming NEXTonSCENE™ Podcast Summary

Episode: Utilizing Social Media for Makeup Tips vs. Hiring an Expert
Release Date: September 12, 2024
Host: Jackie Zook
Guest: Carla Balzano, Founder of Creative Contour by Carla, LLC

Introduction

In this episode of Becoming NEXTonSCENE™, host Jackie Zook delves into the dynamic world of makeup within the realm of social media. With a focus on balancing DIY makeup tips and the benefits of hiring professional makeup artists, Jackie brings her expertise alongside her long-time collaborator, Carla Balzano. Together, they explore trends, personal branding, and the nuanced decision-making process behind makeup application in the digital age.

Marketing Tip and Self-Care Integration

Jackie opens the episode with a valuable marketing tip intertwined with self-care advice. Emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, Jackie states:

“It's important to get super clear in who you are to the core... How you're showing up and how you look and how you feel.” ([00:00])

She reflects on her decade-long business journey, highlighting the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people and setting clear boundaries. This foundation not only enhances personal branding but also ensures meaningful growth and learning experiences, regardless of the outcomes.

Guest Introduction: Carla Balzano

Jackie warmly welcomes Carla Balzano back to the show, celebrating Carla's seven-year tenure as her personal makeup artist. Carla is praised for her expertise and significant contributions to personal branding for numerous clients. Their long-standing professional relationship sets the stage for an insightful discussion on makeup trends and professional versus DIY makeup application.

“I'm so excited for my audience to get to know you... You're amazing.” ([02:27])

The Importance of Professional Makeup in Personal Branding

Carla Balzano underscores the critical role of makeup in personal branding, especially for those in front of the camera:

“The camera picks up everything... a professional does things a little bit differently than the everyday folks do.” ([04:00])

She elaborates on how professional makeup ensures a consistent and flattering appearance on camera, differentiating it from everyday makeup routines. Carla emphasizes that professional artists use specialized techniques and high-quality products to achieve looks that photos and videos alone cannot replicate.

Authenticity in Makeup Application

Jackie and Carla delve into the balance between looking good and staying true to oneself. Jackie highlights the prevalence of inauthentic makeup looks and stresses the importance of authenticity:

“You have to be your authentic self... if you're with somebody that's not pulling that out of you, you're not with the right people.” ([05:36])

Carla echoes this sentiment, explaining that authentic makeup should reflect one’s true self while enhancing their natural features. She discusses the versatility of makeup styles, from the "no makeup" look to more glam styles, ensuring that clients maintain their individuality while appearing polished.

Defining the 'No Makeup' Look

When asked about the "no makeup" look, Carla clarifies its intention and complexity:

“It's meant to look like you're not wearing makeup. Literally, that is it... it's more makeup than you think.” ([06:23])

She explains that achieving a natural appearance often requires meticulous application, which can be more involved than it appears in tutorials or social media posts.

DIY Makeup vs. Professional Services

The conversation shifts to the comparison between DIY makeup tutorials prevalent on platforms like TikTok and Instagram and professional makeup services.

Carla Balzano advises:

“If you want to do it right the first time, always call a makeup artist.” ([07:26])

She outlines several reasons why DIY attempts may fall short:

1. Individual Differences: Techniques that work for one person may not suit another due to unique facial features.
2. Professional Settings: Tutorials often showcase makeup under optimal lighting and camera conditions, which are not replicable in everyday settings.
3. Professional Equipment: High-quality cameras and lighting setups enhance the appearance of makeup, unlike the typical home environment.
4. Editing and Filters: Professional content creators often use post-production editing to perfect their looks, adding another layer of complexity.

Carla emphasizes that while DIY is accessible, hiring a professional ensures a tailored and effective makeup application that aligns with personal branding goals.

Advice on Patience and Skill Development in Makeup Application

Jackie raises a pertinent question about the patience required for those new to makeup application:

“What is your advice around patience when it comes to doing your own makeup?” ([10:23])

Carla Balzano acknowledges the challenges and offers practical advice:

• Assessing Needs and Skills: Evaluate what you need versus what you can manage time-wise.
• Time Management: For busy individuals, like Jackie, she suggests simplified makeup routines that can be done quickly without compromising on appearance.
• Focused Learning: Breaking down makeup application into manageable parts, such as separate classes for eye makeup and complexion, helps in mastering each aspect without feeling overwhelmed.

“I want it to be so easy that I can just do it without thinking about it.” ([15:47])

Deep Dive into Soft Glam: A Rising Trend

Jackie and Carla explore the popularity of the soft glam makeup trend, particularly amplified by social media platforms like Instagram.

Carla Balzano provides background:

“With the rise of Instagram, that's where soft glam officially became a real concept.” ([16:14])

She explains that soft glam is distinct from both no makeup and full-on glamorous styles. It offers a balanced, polished look that is often adaptable to various personal styles. The trend resonates across generations, with its resurgence post-pandemic indicating its enduring appeal.

Components of Soft Glam and Common Requests

When asked about which elements of soft glam are most emphasized, Carla shares her observations:

“It's more complexion. Like foundation, blush... people feeling very intimidated by eye makeup.” ([18:27])

She notes that many clients focus on achieving a flawless complexion, as it serves as the foundation for any makeup look. Eye makeup remains a challenging area for many, reinforcing the value of professional assistance in mastering these techniques.

Makeup Classes and Educational Approach

Carla highlights her structured approach to teaching makeup application through classes:

“More often than not, half of my clients will be booking two classes. They’ll book an eye makeup class and a complexion makeup class.” ([12:22])

By dividing the learning process, clients can focus on mastering one aspect at a time, ensuring they build confidence and proficiency without feeling overwhelmed. Carla provides personalized charts and follow-up materials to facilitate practice and retention of techniques.

Essential Beauty Tips

Towards the end of the episode, Carla and Jackie exchange essential skincare and makeup maintenance tips:

“Don't forget to drink your water. Wear your sunscreen, everyone. And your moisturizer. Four steps.” ([20:04])

These foundational practices not only enhance makeup application but also promote overall skin health, aligning with the holistic approach to beauty and self-care emphasized throughout the conversation.

Conclusion and How to Connect

Jackie wraps up the episode by lauding Carla's professionalism and cleanliness in her makeup artistry, reinforcing the importance of hygiene in beauty services.

Listeners are encouraged to connect with Carla through her website and social media for bookings and more information:

“You can head over to my website, www.creativecontourbycarla.com... just look me up. Creative Contour by Carla.” ([20:23])

Jackie and Carla share a heartfelt appreciation for each other’s work, underscoring the collaborative spirit that fuels their professional endeavors.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Becoming NEXTonSCENE™ offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between social media-driven makeup trends and the enduring value of professional makeup artistry. Through engaging dialogue and expert insights, Jackie Zook and Carla Balzano provide listeners with actionable advice on enhancing personal branding through authentic and effective makeup application.

Notable Quotes:

• Jackie Zook ([00:00]): “It's important to get super clear in who you are to the core... How you're showing up and how you look and how you feel.”

• Carla Balzano ([04:00]): “The camera picks up everything... a professional does things a little bit differently than the everyday folks do.”

• Jackie Zook ([05:36]): “You have to be your authentic self... if you're with somebody that's not pulling that out of you, you're not with the right people.”

• Carla Balzano ([07:26]): “If you want to do it right the first time, always call a makeup artist.”

• Carla Balzano ([16:14]): “With the rise of Instagram, that's where soft glam officially became a real concept.”

• Jackie Zook ([20:04]): “Don't forget to drink your water. Wear your sunscreen, everyone. And your moisturizer. Four steps.”

This detailed summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, highlighting the key discussions between Jackie Zook and Carla Balzano. It serves as a comprehensive guide for those interested in the nuances of makeup application in the context of personal branding and social media influence.