Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Wilson.
Hi Carrie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started in the beauty industry at 19 years old with Clinique, where I spent five years building a strong foundation in skin, product knowledge, and working one-on-one with real clients. That early experience shaped how I see makeup to this day. It’s not about the product, it’s about the person.
I then spent 15 years with Bobbi Brown, where my approach to artistry was refined even further. That philosophy of enhancing rather than masking became second nature to me, and it’s something I’ve carried through every stage of my career.
About 10 years ago, I launched my own makeup line as an extension of the work I was already doing behind the chair. It wasn’t about creating more product, it was about offering a curated, edited approach. Everything I stand behind has to work in real life, on real women, in a way that feels modern, effortless, and wearable.
Over the years, I’ve worked across bridal, editorial, and production, which has given me a well-rounded perspective on makeup in different settings and lighting. What I kept coming back to was this, most women weren’t struggling because of the makeup itself, they were struggling because no one had ever taught them how to apply it in a way that works for them.
That’s where my business really took shape.
Today, I focus heavily on education through one-on-one lessons and events, helping women refine their technique so they can confidently do their own makeup. My goal is always the same: for a woman to look like herself, just on her best day. Not overdone, not outdated, not trying too hard, just elevated.
My reputation as an artist has come from years of consistency, experience, and an honest approach. I’m not interested in trends for the sake of trends, I’m interested in what actually works. And that’s what keeps my clients coming back and trusting me.
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?
It definitely wasn’t a completely smooth road. There were a lot of moments where I had to figure things out as I went, especially as the industry and my role in it started to change.
One of my biggest challenges was not moving fast enough and second-guessing myself. I’ve always cared deeply about doing things the right way, but that also meant I would sometimes wait too long or overthink decisions. I actually had a business attorney, who was also a college business professor—tell me he would have given me an “F” for how long I waited to launch my makeup line, especially because I already had clients asking for it. That stuck with me.
At the time, I think I just needed to grow into the confidence of owning something that was fully mine. Stepping out from behind an established brand and trusting my own voice took time.
I also had to learn how to evolve. What worked years ago doesn’t always work today, and that can be uncomfortable.
Getting clear on who I serve and how I want women to feel when they sit in my chair changed everything. It allowed me to build a business that feels aligned instead of forced.
Looking back, those challenges were necessary. They pushed me to grow not just as an artist, but as a business owner and as a person. And they’re a big part of why I’m able to connect with my clients the way I do now.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a makeup artist and educator with over 30 years of experience, working across bridal, commercial, and editorial projects. While I love creating polished, camera-ready looks, my true passion is teaching women, especially those over 40 how to do their own makeup in a way that’s modern, effortless, and tailored to them.
I’m known for helping clients see that the difference isn’t in having more products, but in using what they already have better. That approach carries over to all my work, whether it’s a wedding, a photoshoot, or a production set. What sets me apart is combining technical expertise with an understanding of each person’s needs. I’m most proud of helping women leave empowered, confident, and excited to recreate their look themselves.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, I’m focused on growing Studio Edison, a creative hub in a 107-year-old building in Brooklyn/Riverside. It’s a space where women can come for lessons, bridal prep, or production work, and I’m proud to share it with Julie Ryan Photography, which adds so much energy and inspiration to the space.
I’m also excited to expand my brand and share my approach to modern, effortless makeup with even more women. The future is about empowering clients, training new artists, and setting a new standard for beauty, all within this historic, inspiring studio.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carriewilsonmakeup.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cwmakeup/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carriewilsonmakeup
