Today we’d like to introduce you to Kerri Herlihy

Hi Kerri , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

I started my makeup career 28 years ago when I began working for MAC Cosmetics in Boston, MA. I had reluctantly started college for a major I was not entirely sure of. A good friend of mine approached me with the opportunity to work full-time at MAC, and I jumped at the chance. It was definitely scary to leave college behind me, but it was a risk that paid off. While I was at MAC I had a chance to meet, and work with some amazing photographers, and other MUA’s. From photo shoots to fashion shows I was able to learn the ins and outs of different styles of makeup in multiple settings. I also worked on a few independent movies, and multiple commercials. It wasn’t until about 15 years into my career that I made the jump into the wedding world. After some of my close friends hired me for their weddings, I was able to become more comfortable doing weddings for brides I did not know. That snowballed into doing 30 to 40 weddings a year. I still love doing photo shoots, and corporate jobs, but weddings are absolutely my favorite these days.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

Early on it was definitely not a smooth road. It takes many years to build up a clientele and a good reputation in the beauty industry. I always had to have a (makeup) retail job to keep me stable financially. Juggling a full-time job while pursuing a business of my own was definitely challenging! I took many years to final feel secure enough to leave the retail grind and focus on free lancing and eventually my own business.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

I am a professional makeup artist specializing in a soft, natural approach to beauty. I have been doing so for close to 30 years. I do mostly weddings at this stage, but I do also work with a handful of amazing photographers in, and around the Boston area. From boudoir shoots, to headshots and portraits. I also have a lot of amazing private clients who have been using me for many years. I think what sets me apart is how clean, and natural my makeup applications are. The internet/Tik Tok/Instagram seems to be so focused on a very heavy makeup look, with huge lashes, contouring and just way too much of everything. I believe less is more, and makeup should enhance your natural beauty, not mask it.
I am the most proud of the awards I have been given over the years. From the Knot Hall of Fame to Couples Choice awards from Wedding Wire. It feels good to know these awards are actually from my clients, not from advertising or any other way. I was also awarded Best Wedding Makeup Artist a few years back from Boston A-list magazine, which was awarded by votes from my peers, and clients.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.

As I mentioned earlier, there are always risks in starting your own business. It can be very scary leaving a secure job behind to pursue your dream of working for yourself. It is not easy, and you should definitely make sure you have money saved for the rough stretches. That being said, I truly believe it is worth the risk!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kerriherlihy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boston.makeup.artist

Image Credits
Shutter Eyes Photography
Erik Patton Photography
Sasha Pedro Weddings
Ludwig Photography
Addie Roberge Photography
Bay Productions
Paul Robert Berman