Look and feel effortlessly beautiful with my professional makeup artistry
Hi, I'm Briar McKenzie, founder of Briar McKenzie Makeup Artistry. I design makeup around each person, their story, mood and how they want to feel on the day. Based in Wellington and working across New Zealand, I have developed a reputation for creating refined, camera-ready looks that last right through your event.
I am known for my thoughtful approach to beauty and my ability to bring out the best in every client. My journey began as a self-taught teen, freelancing for friends and family before finishing high school. At 20, I moved to Central London, where I gained experience in bridal makeup and worked with brands like Clinique, learning from industry leaders including Lisa Eldridge and Mia Connor.
Since then, my career has spanned countries and creative fields. A pivotal shift in my journey brought renewed purpose: to create with intention, honour true beauty, and serve others with love and integrity. Today, my artistry is guided by a deeper mission. To uplift, empower, and illuminate the inner light within every individual.
Skill and artistry with a personal touch
Combining technical skill, creative expression and warmth, I pay attention to the subtle details others might overlook. Balancing light, tone and texture, I highlight your best features and craft a look that feels natural, never overdone. Sometimes the simplest adjustment makes all the difference.
Whether it’s a bridal party makeup morning, editorial shoot or on-set project, I understand the unique pressure of each moment and bring a calm, reassuring presence to every setting. The process stays smooth, even when the day feels busy, while the results remain immaculate.
My approach begins with connection, learning what truly matters to you, then translating that into makeup that moves with you and photographs beautifully from every angle.
A Wellington makeup brand driven by creativity and connection
My work has grown through genuine word of mouth, friends, photographers and clients sharing how they felt completely themselves in front of the mirror. Each session with me is a conversation, not a formula.
I listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions and draw from deep experience to create something distinct and memorable.
My approach is built on authenticity and kindness. Many clients return again and again because they feel comfortable, understood and valued throughout every stage. That trust becomes visible in each finished look – fresh, elegant and unmistakably them.
I listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions and draw from deep experience to create something distinct and memorable.
My approach is built on authenticity and kindness. Many clients return again and again because they feel comfortable, understood and valued throughout every stage. That trust becomes visible in each finished look – fresh, elegant and unmistakably them.
Makeup artistry centered on individuality
People choose me for looks that fit who they are – never a one-size-fits-all template. Each design has purpose, shaped by what’s being celebrated, how the person moves and what helps them feel most at ease.
- Bridal and wedding makeup – Lasting beauty crafted to handle laughter, happy tears and long celebrations with natural grace and soft glamour
- Event and special occasion makeup – Perfect for moments that call for polish and presence from milestone birthdays to film premieres
- Branding, commercial and film/TV makeup – Tailored to lighting, location and movement so every look stays natural under the camera’s eye
- Private lessons and group workshops – Friendly, hands-on sessions that make professional techniques simple and achievable whenever you want to recreate them
Whatever the occasion, I craft makeup that complements your features, enhances confidence and captures individuality with precise care.
Professional standards that protect skin and comfort
Every product, from foundation to setting spray, is chosen for its quality and performance, ensuring makeup that feels as lovely as it looks.
Hygiene is non-negotiable: each brush, palette and tool is properly sanitised before use so you can relax knowing everything’s spotless.
I regularly refine my techniques through advanced training and professional development, constantly evolving across styles, skin tones and lighting setups. Whether preparing a bride at dawn or working as a film and TV makeup artist under time pressure, my calm, organised approach keeps things seamless and stress-free.
Celebrating beauty, connection and creativity across Wellington and beyond
From my Wellington base, I collaborate with photographers, stylists and production crews throughout New Zealand. These partnerships highlight the country’s creative spirit and let me blend professionalism with a truly personal touch.
Many clients stay in contact long after their first appointment – a sign of genuine connection and care.
Each appointment is more than makeup. It’s capturing how someone wants to feel, translating that into tone, texture and expression. Whether preparing for a destination wedding makeup service, an on-camera role or simply treating yourself, each session I create is an uplifting, confidence-boosting experience built entirely around you.
Five reasons to choose Briar McKenzie Makeup Artist
- Flawless results that last – My meticulous application and premium products keep each look fresh all day and well into the night.
- Looks created around the individual – Every detail reflects your personality, occasion and the vision of how you want to appear and feel.
- A relaxed, welcoming experience – My space is approachable and calm, helping you unwind while your look comes together naturally.
- Confidence through learning – My makeup lessons and workshops simplify each technique so anyone can recreate professional finishes with real confidence.
- Inclusive artistry for everyone – Makeup for all ages, tones and styles, designed with genuine respect for individuality and expression.
