We’re proud to share Voyage Chicago’s write up on Make Up First® graduate Michelle Boyce! After completing her certification, Michelle has gone on to work fashion shows, bridal events, and created Elle Artistry.

Michelle, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

I have been obsessed with makeup for as long as I can remember. Even as young as elementary school, I remember begging my mom for my very first eyeshadow one day when we were out running errands. She agreed, and I happily picked out a light purple shade; so 90s. I was the kid who was always wanting to give my friends “makeovers” and the one buying new lip glosses on vacation instead of souvenirs. Makeup has always been my form of art, my hobby, my passion. I grew up practicing on every face I could get my hands on and testing out the latest palettes. Then, one day in high school it suddenly occurred to me that I could do this for a living! I knew with time, I would make this a reality.

I went to college and graduated with my degree in Elementary Education and shortly after completed my Master’s degree. Teaching has allowed me to grow both professionally and as a person. Teaching has taught me countless skills and developed personal attributes that transfer over into the makeup world. It has taught me the discipline required to be a businesswoman and entrepreneur. As a makeup artist, being reliable and professional is everything. Clients depend on you to have great communication skills and to be able to deliver flawless looks under pressure. When I knew I was ready to make my longtime dream a reality, I enrolled in Make Up First School. This school is INCREDIBLE, to say the least. They helped me transform from a self-taught beauty guru to truly an artist. I learned the ins and outs of makeup for theatrical, bridal, media, fashion, etc. I’ve never been more excited to attend class!

Since graduating from Make Up First, I have had experiences I never dreamed of. Whether it be working backstage at fashion shows, applying makeup in the dressing room for former SNL stars or getting to be a part of a bride’s best day of her life. Makeup has brought me so much joy and I can’t wait to see where my journey will take me next!

Read more about Michelle’s journey here!

And don’t forget to check out the great articles spotlighting other Make Up First alums:

Emilie Vukovich

Kasey Surges

Taylor Darcy

Nini Jenkins