Nastassja Iessi of Makeup by Nastassja crowned SA’s best make-up artist

From watching beauty influencers on YouTube to a budding empire, SA’s best make-up artist reveals how she got her start in such a competitive field. Plus, see the top five.

Nastassja Iessi’s passion for make-up and beauty began like many other young girls, watching the infamous beauty tutorials that stormed YouTube more than a decade ago, but little did she know to would lead being crowned SA’s best.

“I watched tutorial after tutorial and I thought I should give these looks a go and it basically snowballed from there,” she said.

“Because I had a love for watching people for makeup online and still do, I started practising on myself pretty much daily.

Nastassja Iessi of Makeup by Nastassja crowned SA's best. Pic: Supplied

“My little sister was my guinea pig to try new looks on, I guess that’s when I realised I could do makeup on people other than myself.”

Now a booked and busy, self-made star, Ms Iessi’s days consistent of back-to-back bookings but that does not stop her from reflecting on the life she’s created for herself.

“I start before the sun is up and leave when the sun is down, I wouldn’t change it for the world,” she said.

“I am so lucky to have beautiful people come and see me so it feels like I’m catching up with or making new friends all day!”

Now with nearly a decade in the game, Ms Iessi has watched many beauty trends come and go, but says she fully focused on her own style.

“I remember when I first started glitter was huge and I don’t see too much of it nowadays,” she said.

“Now it’s all about the clean look, glowy skin with a natural eye.

“I don’t focus too much into trends, if I like something I’ll do it. Whether that’s bright, natural, edgy or glam.

“I’m actually self-taught which makes me proud to say, it means people are coming to me for the specific style of makeup that I’ve taught myself to do.”

With business booming and with over 7000 Instagram followers, Ms Iessi hopes to inspire the next generation of boss babes, encourage all to jump into whatever your passion is.

“I went out on a whim not ever thinking I’d be doing makeup full time and here we are,” she said.

“If you are passionate, honest, consistent and are genuine with your intentions – you will succeed.

“Instagram is the best thing that’s ever happened to small businesses so post as much as physically possible.

“It’s takes time to build a clientele but trust the process and have fun while doing it.”