Graduation Make-up: Mekelia lays down the law
Law school graduate and make-up artist Mekelia Green has dominated graduation make-up looks for the past three years, but with a promotion from legal intern to the position of legal associate at Barita Investments Ltd she has decided to pass the baton to other up-and-coming make-up artists.
“Providing my services at The University of West Indies (UWI) graduation centre allowed me to complete my law studies and graduate debt-free. It also helped me to employ up-and-coming make-up artists as my assistants. I have encouraged my past assistants and social media supporters, some of whom are make-up artists as well, to apply to work at the graduation centre. Having completed my law studies and gained employment as a legal associate, I believe it is time to send the elevator back down for someone else to grab this opportunity. This will not only help them financially but will help them to sharpen their skills as well,” Green told Under The Dryer (UTD).
Green, also a certified make-up artist, received formal training locally at D’Marie Institute of Make-up Artistry and has been in the field for over five years. “I juggled my growing make-up business while pursuing my Bachelor of Laws degree at The University of the West Indies, Mona and while studying for my Legal Education Certificate at the Norman Manley Law School. Time management became my best friend as both were demanding. As my popularity on social media grew, so did my clientele,” explained Green. “As soon as I would complete make-up for a client, I had to pick up my books because exams seemed to be closing in by the minute. I am grateful for the unwavering support of my family and close friends who kept me up when the doubts set in. It was not easy but I did my best.”
Though she will not be at the UWI graduation centre this year, Green still accepts clients on the weekends. UTD shares some of Green’s exclusive tips for graduation make-up.
Contact Mekelia Green by calling 876-865-9556 or e-mail her at mekiemua@gmail.com
Graduation Make-up Tips
Red or nude lips?
It all depends on my client’s personality. A red lip is classic, while a nude complements gorgeous eye make-up.
‘Photo day’ vs graduation day
Longevity is key for grad day make-up. I use different products for each. Because I know graduation can go on for hours and hours; I use Sacha Mattifying Primer and Fix-It Setting Spray to ensure the make-up survives the sweat and tears.
Winged liner or no liner?
Again, not every client is the same, so it depends. I prefer a winged liner; it adds a bold touch. My choice for the sharpest wing is the Inglot eyeliner gel.
Beaming highlight or subdued sheen ?
I am a big fan of gold highlights. Currently, I am loving the gold highlight from the Beauty Creations Baked Pops Highlighter Palette that I bought at Fontana Pharmacy. It complements most skin tones and when used properly, affords a soft glow or a bold highlight, for those who want to beam all the way to outer space!
Bronzed babe or chiselled cutie?
I prefer bronzed. The chiselled look has its place, but a bronze look is effortless and natural. I am a huge fan of natural-looking make-up and my clientele prefers the natural look as well.
What is an absolute no-no for graduation make-up?
Coloured eyeshadow trends. I save that for Carnival. I love neutral colours for grad make-up because it gives my clients’ photos a timeless look. You cannot tell which year they graduated just by looking at their photos. Also, they are happy when I use my make-up techniques to cover unwanted blemishes, while still making them look like themselves.
Credits:
On the cover:
Norman Manley Law school graduate and make-up artist Mekelia Green
Senior Associate Editor — Lifestyle & Social Content: Novia McDonald-Whyte
Contributor: Alayne Richards
Photos:
Hasini Bryan
Instagram.com/mekiemua
Courtesy of Mekelia Green
Courtesy of asos.com
Courtesy of camerareadycosmetics.com
Courtesy of nordstrom.com
Courtesy of letstalkbeauty.co.uk
Courtesy of sachacosmetics.com
Courtesy of inglotusa.com
Courtesy of beautycreationscosmetics.com