2023 Holiday Gift Guide
Time to kick off the Christmas season with some holiday shopping! Looking for the perfect gift? You’re in luck! We’ve hand-picked our favorite items that any MUA or makeup enthusiast would adore this holiday season!
We often get asked, what’s it like in the suburbs now that Make Up First® changed locations?
The answer is, it’s fabulous! Not only was Naperville ranked the safest town in the COUNTRY, but it’s also filled with so much holiday cheer. After class, our students enjoy wandering around our “Hallmark movie” town on their way to the Metra station. Downtown Naperville has so much to offer all year round (including Make Up First®, of course!), but around the holiday season it feels just a little more special! Everywhere you walk, the trees are lit up in twinkling lights throughout the entire downtown area. You’ll commonly stumble across live musicians and Christmas carolers on the street corners, and inside restaurants and coffee shops where you can find specialty hot cocoa and other holiday treats. Dozens of storefronts (including us!) are on the Holiday Window Painting map provided by the city, so visitors can search through the streets for the most adorable holiday window paintings! On Water Street, you’ll find a stunning holiday light display along the River Walk, where you’ll hear Christmas music playing through the streets every night of the week from 4pm-9pm. The River Walk is a scenic pathway overlapped with picturesque covered bridges adorned with lights and wreaths. And the best part? Make Up First® is submerged right in the middle of this holiday magic! Come visit us soon for some holiday shopping, our Holiday Glamour Makeup Demo, or just to say hi!
Make Up First® artists invaded the runway on the first weekend of November. For years, Make Up First® has provided countless opportunities for artists around the world. Our first time producing a runway show was a celebration of creativity, passion, and dedication. We are proud to give the ARTISTS their time to shine on the runway. INVASION: The Runway Show was an "out of this world" runway experience. We merged the worlds of dance, makeup, and fashion. We're grateful to have put together an incredibly talented team of our graduates & staff, designers, and other creatives to bring unearthly creatures to life. Keep reading to take a look into INVASION: The Runway Show from the producers’ prospectives…
After months of preparing, we were anxious for our rehearsal on the Friday night before the show. After arriving to the venue inside Water Tower Place, we piled all of our stuff in, waiting for an elevator to carry our bins of theatrical makeup products upstairs. Once we settled in, we were struggling to figure out how to use the speaker for the first 20 minutes or so. We’re not very tech savvy if you couldn’t tell! We got it running, and it really started to sink in that the show was the next day. Before the models and a few of the artists arrived, Hannah (Theatrical Instructor) and Jade (Co-Owner) took a deep breath trying to calm each other’s nerves. Michelle (Co-Owner) was on her way, bringing the whole family to watch the rehearsal, baby and all! Once the crowd arrived, we were pretty overwhelmed with the amount of energy in the room. “Lets get the girls in their heels and we’ll get started in 5 minutes” said Britney Wittes from Why Not Petites. Britney had been helping Jade and Michelle with the modeling aspect of the show, from the casting call until the second before she walked the runway during the show. We had not only models, but dancers as well. The designers were doing their last-minute fittings during the rehearsal and the vision really started to come together. After rehearsal, we still had some work to do. Finalizing face charts, last minute HMUA timeline adjustments, etc. We finished up just around midnight and tried to get some rest before the big day.
Saturday morning, 31 models, 12 artists, 4 designers, and full team of backstage helpers came together and began to create extraterrestrial magic. Somehow everything backstage ran seamlessly. It made us beyond proud to have a room full of artists who were trained by us, all together executing the most flawless makeup designs. After a few hours, which seemed like minutes, someone yelled to us backstage “People are lined up outside waiting for the doors to open! It’s PACKED out there!”, and our nerves started up again. By then our models were makeup-ready, and the designers were getting them into wardrobe. We finished up our final run-through of the show before opening the doors.
MUA: Ciarra O’Reiley, Photographer: St.Micca, Designer: Zo Roze, Model: Raquel Horvath
It was 5:00 when the doors opened to the public. Each member of the audience checked in at the door and were taken to their seats. It was not only a show but also a reunion for so many people who came together with like-interests in the beauty and fashion industry. Our Photographers (St.Micca Photography, Ed Sochacki, Henry Bat Photography, and Arijit Ghosh) were set up at the end of the runway to capture each look. We were peaking out into the crowd, amazed with the amount of people who came to support our graduates, models, and designers. We gathered all of our MUAs and sat together in the VIP section to watch the show at the end of the runway. All of our artists squished together on the couch was such a heartwarming sight for everyone walking by. The Make Up First community really feels like a big happy family when brought together.
At 5:45, the music started. It began with a minute long intro to catch the audiences attention. The audience all took their seats and waited for the first model to appear. The music was building and the audience was in awe when the first dancer opened the show in a full theatrical alien look dressed in a cyborg inspired metal tutu designed by Zo Roze. She danced down the runway performing her quirky, alien-like moves. The music kept building until the first model appeared with an exceptionally powerful walk, followed by many many more unique designs by Zo Roze, Naomi, Qualia Arte, and DRIA/V.
The show came close to the end and it was time to take the MUAs backstage for their final walks. The models walked with their designers and the crowd cheered them on. Once everyone was back from the runway, the makeup artists walked out and were recognized for their incredible work. The models and designers cheered for the artists from backstage, along with the crowd in the audience. It was such an unforgettable moment for our artists, and for us.. Backstage after the show was filled with excitement, relief, many “I’m so proud of you”s, and happy tears. Our very first show was one for the books!
The holidays are here! Visit our Pro Shop website for online shopping with FREE SHIPPING + FREE MYSTERY PRODUCT for all orders over $20 placed on Black Friday through Cyber Monday.
check out our most popular products at The Pro Shop
Since opening in 2006, it has been the mission of Make Up First® School of Makeup Artistry to provide a quality education for those who wish to pursue a career in makeup artistry.
I am pleased to announce that the School will continue with new ownership and location. Congratulations to the new owners, Jade Labriola and Michelle Boyce Natywa! I am more than confident that Jade and Michelle will continue to maintain the integrity, reputation, and quality of education for which Make Up First® School is known.
Watch for details about the grand opening of our Naperville location on September 10. See you there!
Jill Glaser
Founder, Make Up First® School
Thanks, Chicago—now we’re on to downtown Naperville!
After more than a decade in the city of Chicago, it’s time for a fresh start. We are thanking Chicago for the memories and heading to Downtown Naperville. Just a few blocks from the Naperville train station and surrounded with ample parking, we are located at 232 S. Washington St. Suite 6. Naperville's thriving Downtown is recognized as one of the most popular destinations in the Midwest and we can’t wait for our enhanced contemporary space to be included in the bustling fun of the town.
Change is Good
Make Up First is expanding and offering MORE! We are determined to welcome not only MUAs, but also open our doors to the public. Along with our Pro Shop and Makeup Courses, we also offer makeup services for everyone.
Keep an eye out for our “pop up” events-or ask us to host your special event!
Fall Course Enrollment Now Open
With our new location comes new hours! We will now be offering both MORNING CLASSES (three days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and EVENING CLASSES (four days a week from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.). See all the details on our course registration page!
Back to School!
Spring Enrollment is Now Open! Classes Begin March 7.
Be sure to register quickly to guarantee your place in our upcoming session.
Basic Makeup I
March 7 & 8; 14 & 15
Enroll Now →
Basic Makeup II
March 21 & 22; 28 & 29
Enroll Now →
Media Makeup HD
April 4 & 5
Enroll Now →
Media: Runway, Editorial, Fashion
April 11 & 12; 25 & 26
Enroll Now →
Theatrical Makeup A
May 9 & 10
Enroll Now →
Theatrical Makeup B
May 16 & 17
Enroll Now →
Clinical Makeup
May 2 & 3
Enroll Now →
Careers in Makeup Artistry
May 23
Enroll Now →
Courses run Mondays and Tuesdays during the daytime.
Ready for the next step in your career?
By offering professional hands-on instruction in all areas of makeup artistry, we prepare students to work in all avenues of the industry.
We’re hosting workshops through the entire coming month—all open to the public! Find something for everyone below.
Valentines Day / Boudoir Makeup
10:00 – 1:00
Demo of several Valentine’s and boudoir looks, ranging from soft to sultry.
Latest Trends in Makeup
10:00 – 1:00
Demos showcasing the latest Danessa Myricks products, all available from our shop!
FX MAKEUP SERIES:
Prosthetic Teeth
10:00 – 5:00
From vampires to monsters to comedic character looks—create prosthetic teeth from scratch.
Portfolio Building for Makeup Artists
10:00 – 1:00
Everything you need to get your portfolio ready! Robert Beczarski will be on-site photographing your makeup looks on your models.
POSTPONED
(more info to come)
Hairstyling for Makeup Artists
Day 1
10:00 – 4:00
2-day intensive hairstyling workshop tailored just for makeup artists!
Hairstyling for Makeup Artists
Day 2
10:00 – 4:00
Braiding, backcombing, up-dos, down-dos, pin curling, victory rolls, and finger waves.
TEMPTU Certified Airbrush/Bridal
10:00 – 4:00
The business of bridal, plus airbrush makeup techniques. Includes a TEMPTU Air Best Selling Basics Kit!
FX MAKEUP SERIES:
Bald Caps
10:00 – 5:00
Advanced techniques for cutting, fitting, and painting bald caps. Fee includes your bald cap.
It’s not too late! Sign up to join us this coming week for two bridal workshops!
Monday, January 31
TEMPTU Certified Airbrush/Bridal Workshop
Join us January 31st for our TEMPTU Certified Airbrush/Bridal Workshop. This one-day workshop will cover the business of Bridal as well as Airbrush makeup using TEMPTU products! The cost of each registration includes a TEMPTU Air Best Selling Basics Kit!
Tuesday, February 1
Southeast Asian Indian Bridal Workshop
Join us February 1st for a demonstration of a classic Southeast Asian Bridal Makeup Application! This class will focus on dramatic eyes, bold lashes, as well as a traditional full-face application!
We have decided to hold off on presenting our certification program courses until March and instead will be holding several workshops, all open to the public.
Our Spring certificate program will resume in March!
Winter Workshop Series
TEMPTU Certified Airbrush/Bridal Workshop
Join us January 31st for our TEMPTU Certified Airbrush/Bridal Workshop. This one-day workshop will cover the business of Bridal as well as Airbrush makeup using TEMPTU products! The cost of each registration includes a TEMPTU Air Best Selling Basics Kit!
Southeast Asian Indian Bridal Workshop
Join us February 1st for a demonstration of a classic Southeast Asian Bridal Makeup Application! This class will focus on dramatic eyes, bold lashes, as well as a traditional full-face application!
Valentines Day Makeup and Boudoir Looks
Please join us February 7th as we demonstrate a variety of Valentine’s and boudoir looks, ranging from soft to sultry.
Our portfolio building workshop on February 15th is everything you need to get your bridal, fashion, and/or editorial portfolio ready for the upcoming season!
Learn the business of Bridal as well as Airbrush makeup during this one-day workshop using TEMPTU products!
Students will learn how to assemble and use the airbrush and compressor; and will be taught techniques and be guided in the selection of various airbrush foundations, blushes and contour shades, in order to create the highly sought-after flawless airbrushed face. Students should bring brushes from their makeup kits.
With the advent of high definition technology, airbrush makeup has become more popular than ever for all media formats. Brides will often hire only the makeup artist who can create the highly sought-after flawless airbrushed face. Live events, such as fashion shows and events with body painters, often incorporate airbrush makeup as an essential part of the makeup application.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Prepare the skin for airbrush makeup
Learn using different formulations: water, silicone and alcohol based
Select the matching foundation
Create the matching foundation, using color theory
Airbrush foundation, blush, highlight and contour colors
Learn how to quick-clean the airbrush between product/client change
Disassemble, clean and reassemble the airbrush
The Business of Bridal
How to create a Bridal Contract, pricing, etc!
Learn appropriate Bridal looks.
This workshop runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 7.
Ready to advance your career? Only a few spots remain for our Fall 2021 session, so don’t delay!
Ready to expand your skillset and advance your career?
If you have If you've completed Basic Makeup I and Basic Makeup II in the past, you can now continue your certification!
Media Makeup HD starts up THIS MONDAY, July 19, and only a few spots are available. If you’re ready to jump back into the program, The full schedule of remaining courses in our Summer Session is below.
Media Makeup HD
July 19 & 20
Enroll Now →
Media: Runway, Editorial, Fashion
July 26 & 27; August 2 & 3
Enroll Now →
Theatrical Makeup A
August 9 & 10
Enroll Now →
Theatrical Makeup B
August 16 & 17
Enroll Now →
Clinical Makeup
August 24 & 26
Enroll Now →
Careers in Makeup Artistry
August 30
Enroll Now →
Courses run Mondays and Tuesdays during the daytime.
Upgrade Your Kit!
Bring your kit from your past session and a $50.00 kit fee will update your kit with more than $300 worth of new products!
Haven’t taken Basic Makeup I or II yet?
Only a few spots remain for our Fall 2021 session, so don’t delay!
We are so proud of our students who successfully completed the Summer 2021 Basic Makeup I Session!
Everyone quickly learned and adhered to the newest part of the curriculum—sanitation and hygiene. As always, our students were introduced to the basics of color theory and facial anatomy, and applied those concepts—using their extensive kit materials—during the hands-on portion of each class. We are excited to dive into Basic Makeup II and to see our Summer Session students continue to learn even more!
Learning about the Student Kit
Facial anatomy
Our new location is perfect for all the practical makeup applications: the lighting, the mirrors, and the spacious rooms worked well to enhance our teaching and hands-on experience.
We are grateful for our new, enthusiastic staff members, who want nothing more than to provide the best education possible: Syd Genco, Michelle Boyce, and Jade Labriola!
Ready to join us and jumpstart your career?
Only a few spots remain for our Fall 2021 session, so don’t delay!
Our SOLD OUT Summer session begins on Monday, but you can get in on the Fall session in our gorgeous new West Loop location!
Classes start with Basic Makeup I on September 13. If you’re planning on attending, don’t delay—our Summer session sold out quickly and we anticipate Fall will do the same!
Our New Location
In case you’ve missed our announcement, we have partnered with the renowned salon, Art+Science in Chicago’s thriving West Loop. Our beautiful upstairs instruction and hands-on application space provides high ceilings and contemporary ventilation for an open flow, and we’ll be able to safely distance, and yet still positively engage with our students. We’re just a few blocks from public transportation and ample parking.
Our new schedule will deliver energized, industry-leading professional instruction in all areas of makeup artistry as we prepare students to work in all avenues of the industry. The duration of the Program is specifically designed to allow students to quickly launch their careers.
Art+Science: our new location in Chicago’s thriving West Loop neighborhood
Ready to join us for our Fall session?
As you may have seen, we’re excited to go BACK TO SCHOOL—resuming in-person certification courses, kicking off our Summer session with Basic Makeup I on June 14, 2021.
Only a few spots remain, so if you’ve been waiting to register, the time is now!
Art+Science: our new location in Chicago’s thriving West Loop neighborhood
In the spirit of forward-thinking collaboration, we have partnered with the renowned salon, Art+Science in Chicago’s thriving West Loop. Our beautiful upstairs instruction and hands-on application space provides high ceilings and contemporary ventilation for an open flow, and we’ll be able to safely distance, and yet still positively engage with our students. We’re just a few blocks from public transportation and ample parking.
Our schedule will deliver energized, industry-leading professional instruction in all areas of makeup artistry as we prepare students to work in all avenues of the industry, including editorial, bridal, theatrical, media, clinical and more. In addition, the duration of the Program is specifically designed to allow students to quickly launch their careers. You can see our Summer Course offerings here.
As always has been, the health and safety of our students, models, instructors, and staff are our top priority. We’ve implemented the following measures to promote the health and well-being of everyone:
Masks will be required at all times, with the exception of the person sitting as a model for makeup application.
Class size will be kept small and the classroom is large enough to accommodate plenty of distance between students.
Surfaces, tools, and supplies will be thoroughly sanitized before each class begins, and students must be responsible for maintaining a clean and sanitary makeup kit.
Ready to join us for our summer session?
The immersive, light-filled second floor at Art+Science
We all struggle with keeping all of our makeup and beauty essentials in order. Having a well-maintained vanity space in your home is essential to achieving the perfect look. But you might not know where to start.
In order to help, Redfin reached out to makeup experts from across the country—including Jill from Make Up First—to share their best advice on how to set up your vanity space and keep it organized. Here’s Jill’s quote:
The makeup is not right if done in the wrong light! Think ‘Goldilocks lighting – not too warm, not too cool, just right. Find a light system (3500 Kelvin) to achieve that “white light” needed to accurately see the true color. – Jill Glaser, Make Up First
BeautySchoolsDirectory.com is awarding a $2500 scholarship to a student. The next deadline is coming up March 1, so now is a great time to share this opportunity. More details on the Beauty & Wellness Professionals Scholarship can be found here: https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/cosmetology-school-scholarships
In addition, we have this up-to-date list of additional scholarships available for students interested in the beauty field: https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/financial-aid/scholarships
And even more information for students seeking additional financial aid options: https://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/financial-aid
AMANDA GORMAN-OUR NATION’S YOUNGEST INAUGURAL POET LAUREATE!
I ILLUMINIZING LOOSE POWDERS
A SUBTLE LOOSE POWDER WITH DIAMOND DUST
HD COMPLIANT; PERFECT TO “BLUR” LITTLE IMPERFECTIONS
INGLOT SPARKLING DUST
FROSTED LOOSE, HIGHLY PIGMENTED POWDER FOR ANY PART OF THE BODY, INCLUDING THE EYES!
AMC FACE AND BODY ILLUMINATORS
LIGHT TEXTURE, OIL-FREE LIQUID WITH A PEARLESCENT FINISH
INGLOT INTENSE SPARKLERS
FACE, EYES AND BODY HIGHLIGHTER
USE YOUR BRUSH, SPONGE OR EVEN FINGERS TO APPLY!
FOR A MORE INTENSE SPARKLE, MIX WITH THE ATTN! MAKEUP MIXING MEDIUM
Our Pro Shop is now
strictly an e-commerce site.
Order online and products will
be shipped within two
business days.
We carry professional products available to everyone!
Industry discounts are available.
Visit the Make Up First® Pro Shop today!
We are extremely proud of all our students and everything they have accomplished over the years at Make Up First! Throughout our 15 years, we’ve been fortunate to teach incredible artists, host workshops for the industry’s best MUAs, and lectured at some of the country’s biggest trade shows. As we look back at some of our favorite memories, we would love to see some of your favorite photos and videos from your time here as well! Tag @makeupfirstschool on Instagram with your favorite photos/videos and let us know what those memories mean to you.
