MEET: L Makeup Institute and Cosmetic Store:

Business owner roped into industry by instant gratification that comes with makeup artistry

Image

Steve Marcus

Owner Lissette Waugh is reflected in a mirror at L Makeup Institute, a makeup school and cosmetic store, at Tivoli Village, 440 S. Rampart Blvd., Thursday, July 12, 2018.

Mon, Aug 20, 2018 (2 a.m.)

Tell us about L Makeup Institute and how the concept was conceived.

L Makeup Institute was borne from the love that I have for the craft of makeup artistry and a love for the state where I was raised. The growth of our city, specifically in the entertainment industry, made me realize there was a need for makeup artist education in Las Vegas. With the help of my husband, who has a wealth of business experience, I decided to take a risk and open the institute, with a focus on the art and science of makeup artistry and makeup effects. The cosmetic store was organically conceived through the need to provide both our students and the public with professional makeup and special makeup effects supplies.

Who are your clients?

Our students are aspiring artists who want a rewarding career in the makeup and special makeup effects industries. The cosmetics store is open to graduates, professional artists and the public. Our customers appreciate the professional products we carry and getting advice and makeup tips from our pro artist retail consultants.

What program is the most sought after by students, and what techniques do they learn?

The Journey Master Makeup Artistry Program would be our most popular. This program combines three individual, complementary courses: Beauty Makeup, Airbrush & Body Painting, and Special Makeup Effects. We call it “the journey” because it is a process of development. We believe that to be a successful makeup artist, you must receive a well-rounded education in all disciplines. Our programs are designed to deliver just that.

How many are on your team and what special talents do they bring?

We have six instructors, several guest artists/instructors, and a support staff of six. Each is an expert in his or her respective field. Each has years of practical work experience and must go through a rigorous auditioning process prior to being selected. Once selected, all faculty members are required to go through orientation and ongoing comprehensive continuing education training and development activities. The entire L Makeup Institute staff and faculty team is always striving to elevate our students’ educational experience, and that begins with the first time you enter our school, through your graduation and beyond. What does all this mean for you? We love what we do. We are teaching relevant, employable skills. We have a sincere interest in your future success as a makeup artist.

What was your career path prior to launching L Makeup?

I have always had such a great love for fashion and all things beauty. I thought I was going to be a designer because I loved to sew, but I fell into makeup artistry in my twenties and never looked back. The reward of seeing an instant transformation and the joy that brings is such a high, I was instantly hooked. Prior to opening L Makeup, I was working as a freelance makeup artist for fashion shoots, national magazines, runway, local socialites and celebrity clientele.

What motivates you?

I used to think I was motivated by my own success. However, owning a school, I feel a tremendous sense of responsibility for the success of others. Seeing our students pursue their dreams and watching their success, knowing that I had a little bit to do with it, is extremely satisfying and motivates me to continually try to improve the experience of our students.

What is the best part about doing business in Las Vegas?

People move to Las Vegas because they have a desire to work hard and be successful. We love our diverse population and the different cultures it represents, and those cultures’ shared love of makeup artistry. I also appreciate the business-friendly environment that recognized the need to change state law to conform to law in other larger cities, which allows us to do what we love to do here.

Where do you see yourself or company in five years?

Our goal would be to open several more locations in other underserved markets throughout the United States. I also have some ideas on developing makeup products and makeup-related products that pro artists would love.

Back to top

Share