Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nicole Whitehall. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Nicole, thanks for joining us today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

I am first-generation Trinidadian-American and that has come with the duality of being born in American society and raised with Carribean values. I’m so blessed to have been born with two sets of grandparents, one if which was instrumental in raising me. So much so, I consider them my second set of parents. The instilled values of studying very hard, playing harder and always making time to dance with family and friends.

My Mother, however, was key in putting me in and keeping me in the arts. My maternal grandparents always supported those creative endeavors. They listened to me practice guitar, came to every dance recital and paid for the art I would draw for them. My number one customer was my Grandpa Verne. No matter how high the price, he would pay me for what I made — always proud to display it on the fridge and ask me what I was going to draw next. The work was never all that spectacular or interesting, but it was mine and that’s why he loved it. He told all of us Grandchildren that we were the “Cutest, sweetest, smartest, fastest things” and we believed it. It’s during those early moments of receiving praise from him for my work that I knew I would be an artist of some kind. I just wasn’t sure what medium that would take shape in.

Now that he has passed on, it feels like those memories are even more clear. I carry a feeling of pride knowing that he is proud of me for continuing to create, express myself and hold the things I make in high regard — “fridge worthy” if you will. Without that pivotal influence, I would have fallen into studying myself out of art, chasing success in the medical, engineering or legal field only left to question why I felt empty. Their support kept me whole, authentic and true to my life’s calling. As I gain more success and my art interfaces with business objectives, I’m consistently challenging myself to reflect on why I started and the heart of why I continue. There are stories for me to tell, vantage points to unpack and a legacy to continue. I will never forget that.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the arts. My mom put me in dance when I was eight years old, and that’s where it all started. From there, I joined my school choir, performed in musical theater, and entertained my family any chance I got. Creativity became my way of expressing myself and connecting with the world around me.

As an adult, I was introduced to makeup artistry through a family friend who worked on photoshoots. I had never tried it before, but I was fascinated by the idea of exploring another form of art. I shadowed her on set and immediately fell in love. That experience launched a five-year career as a makeup artist, during which I worked on everything from weddings to editorial shoots.

One of the most surreal moments came early in my journey when my work was featured in an international magazine. I was stunned. Seeing my artistry celebrated globally was a reminder of how far I could take this craft.

Interestingly, my time on set opened the door to another unexpected path. When I showed up to shoots, photographers would often ask if I was the model. I was always quick to explain that I was there as the makeup artist, but after a while, it got me thinking—what if I tried modeling?

In 2017, I took a leap and applied to my first few castings. To my surprise, I booked my first job shortly after—and that shoot led to my first billboard in Times Square. From there, things snowballed. I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible clients like ABC, ADP, Walmart, and BetterHelp, among others.

What sets me apart, I think, is my perspective. Having been behind the scenes as a makeup artist, I know how much effort goes into making every shoot successful. I always show up early, treat everyone on set with kindness, and give my absolute best. It’s important to me to honor the hard work of the crew and my fellow castmates.

As a result, many of my clients continue to reach out, and we’ve built great relationships over time. For me, it’s about more than just the work—it’s about creating something meaningful and connecting with others through art.

This journey has been more rewarding than I ever could’ve imagined, and I’m so grateful I took that chance on myself.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to unlearn the thought that I’m not right for a role or collaboration without even applying. I needed to stop thinking that I knew what the casting director was looking for. Unlearning that is what landed me my Better Help National Commercials. I was shocked when they chose me, but it was important that I took that leap.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding thing is getting the opportunity collaborate with directors, stylists and other creatives to make incredible pieces of art that move audiences and create excitement around the brands we’re working with.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nicolewhitehall.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nicolewhitehall
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/nicolewhitehall

Image Credits
Better Help Great Wolf Lodge Champs x Adidas