"THERE IS BEAUTY IN Simplicity..."
"We desire to possess a beauty that is worth pursuing, worth fighting for, a beauty that is core to who we truly are. We want beauty that can be seen; beauty that can be felt; beauty that affects others; a beauty all our own to unveil.”
— Stasi Eldredge
About Kiley
FROM ACTRESS TO MAKEUP ARTIST
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Hello, I’m Kiley, a makeup artist with over 18 years of experience based in Northern Virginia, specifically Fairfax. My journey in the arts began on the stage, performing in musical theatre productions in the NYC/NJ area. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for makeup.
However, I disliked the heavy and cakey stage makeup. I aimed to make my clients feel beautiful with natural, radiant makeup that mimics skin.
During my university years from 2001 to 2005, I dedicated myself to honing my makeup artistry skills for beauty, bridal, film, and TV. In 2005, I began my professional career in the Shenandoah Valley, gaining hands-on experience with clients, photographers, and destination brides.
My diverse background enables me to craft custom looks for each client. I understand the nuances of character makeup, the 'less is more' approach in editorial makeup, and the meticulous detail needed in bridal, film, and TV makeup.
I'm committed to perfecting my craft and learning from the industry's top artists. My mentors include James Vincent, Kristina Gasperas, Terri Tomlinson, Danessa Myricks, Ashley Fierro, and Rachel Lusk, among others.
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My work has been featured in respected platforms such as Washington Family Magazine, the Emmy Awards (Capital Region), The 700 Club on CBN, DCW50 (Washington DC's CW Network), and Everyday Wealth, a nationally syndicated video broadcast of the podcast/radio show hosted by Soledad O'Brien and Jean Chatzky.
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When I'm not sanitizing brushes or painting faces, I indulge in reading, baking, practicing calligraphy, antique shopping, traveling, blogging, and cherishing moments with my family and miniature poodle.
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I love celebrating people's differences, enhancing their natural beauty, and not conforming to the ideal 'standard' of beauty. We are all different and have unique features which make us beautiful.
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Like every art form, makeup is subjective. I specialize in natural, radiant makeup looks allowing the client's beauty to be center stage. I believe that makeup should enhance clients' features, not conceal them. My favorite looks to create are classic ones, as they withstand the test of time.
-Kiley Smith-
