WHAT SHE SAID: 5 Minutes with Makeup Artist Michelle Wight
Michelle Wight is a second-generation Mexican American hair and make-up artist based in Seattle. She always dreamed of creating an approachable, inclusive space where women could embrace their unique beauty and feel comfortable in their own skin. Today, alongside her growing team of artists, Michelle offers a full array of beauty services to clients, both in studio and on-location.
We recently caught up with the busy mother of four to learn more about how she built her thriving business.
How did you get your start?
I had an assignment to make myself look old in a stage makeup class when I was 18. The teacher asked if I did makeup and I said “no”. She immediately said, “Well, maybe you should.” And the rest is history.
What drives you?
Such a loaded question. Different things have driven me at different stages of my career. I could probably start a podcast on this topic alone….
What do you wish you knew when you got started?
I wish I knew following my passion could be the right option. When I first started, being a makeup artist was looked at as a hobby. I also had two small children at the time and no one thought I could provide for them by "just doing makeup".
What do you think customers would be surprised to know about your company?
I didn't start doing this full-time until 2018. My first studio was in the basement of my home. At the time, I had a newborn baby who was always upstairs with my dad or my oldest daughter while I was with clients.
What are your top 3 marketing channels?
My website
Instagram
Google
How has your personal approach to business changed over the years?
I've become extremely intentional. When I started, I only wanted to share about clients and only post professional galleries and I couldn't understand why I wasn't growing on social media or in my business. Then I got out of my way and started sharing real stories, good and bad. I shared what it’s like being a mom and running a business. I'm much more open and I find that our client relate to that.
What are your favorite personal productivity tools to use for business?
Honeybook
SmartSheet
Google Calendar
Early bird or night owl?
Early Bird
How do you get out of a creative rut?
I plan quarterly content days, look at magazines, follow designers I love and then just play. The most beautiful makeup I have ever done has sometimes been by accident.
Name one fashion item in your closet that you're sentimental about and why.
My hats! They are my signature accessory and I search high and low for well-made, hand-painted designs that are unique to my style.
What is one of the goals you set for 2022 and have you completed it yet?
My goal for 2022 was to set very intentional micro goals and reach them. So far, I've completed every goal I set out to accomplish this year.
Name a woman in business that you admire:
Cheval, known as Hailey Paige. I’m inspired by the strength, determination, fierce passion, and “never give up” outlook on life.
What's one podcast or website you love for business insight and inspiration?
So many! I like Wedded, Work Party, My first Million, Weddings for Real, and Well Oiled Operations.
If you could share one bit of advice for a new business owner, what would it be
Learn it all, and then outsource, because you can't do it all on your own.
What's one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I moved to Seattle in 2011 after excepting a position at MAC, I had never been to the PNW I packed my car and my kids and we moved sight unseen.
Michelle was featured in the marketplace at the What She Said Women in Fashion Event at W Bellevue on October 13th. Check out more information about that event here. You can also book a hair + make-up appointment with Michelle Wight at her new Greenlake beauty studio, House Wight.
