Conversations with Genevieve Guenther

Today we’d like to introduce you to Genevieve Guenther.

Hi Genevieve, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a marketing professional by day and a passionate makeup artist in my free time. My journey with makeup began as a teenager, inspired by creators like Michelle Phan during the early days of the YouTube beauty community. Over the years, I honed my skills by learning techniques, testing products, and helping friends look their best for special occasions.

In 2021, I took a leap when I did makeup for seven bridesmaids (plus myself!) as part of a wedding party. That experience gave me the confidence to pursue bridal makeup professionally. Since then, I’ve worked with women of all makeup comfort levels—those who rarely wear it and those who love it as much as I do.

My goal is to make every client feel like the best version of themselves. I focus on listening, ensuring comfort, and creating personalized looks that match their vision. Now, I’m also offering makeup consultations to help clients organize their collections, discover new products, and master application techniques.

Helping others feel beautiful and confident is my passion.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was difficult in the beginning to get the word out and find clients. I didn’t know anyone within the wedding or event industry. Slowly I began meeting some of the kind, like-minded people in this industry who gave me tips and confidence in my skills. One of those connections, Samara Perchick (@makeupxsamara) I met on the job and we had an instant connection. We had a similar application style – natural, skin-forward, and understated – and she asked if I wanted to be her Secondary Artist when needed. She does makeup full time and she’s been instrumental in my growth and success. She took me under her wing and I so appreciate all that she’s done for me, my business, and my confidence.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a makeup artist who primarily focuses on bridal and event makeup, specializing in everything from soft, natural looks to full glam. While I can do it all, most of my clients come to me because they want to feel like the best version of themselves—not like someone completely different. That desire for natural, comfortable beauty is what sets me apart.

A lot of artists showcase their technical skills by going all out—which can be stunning!—but if someone usually wears little to no makeup, that approach can feel overwhelming or even traumatic. My goal is always to honor what the client wants and create a look that enhances their features without making them feel like they’re wearing a mask.

I also take a research-based approach to my work. I’m constantly learning, testing new products, and watching beauty reviews to stay on top of what really works. I love being a go-to resource for my clients, friends, and family. When someone asks for a recommendation, I always follow up with questions—skin type, budget, finish, wear time—because makeup isn’t one-size-fits-all. My recommendations are personalized, just like my approach to every makeup session.

What I’m most proud of is the experience I provide, especially on wedding days. There’s a lot of emotion wrapped up in that morning, and I pride myself on being attuned to what my client needs in the moment. Whether that’s quiet, grounding energy or a space to vent and laugh, I meet them where they are. It’s a privilege to play a small but meaningful role in someone’s big day, and I never take that for granted.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
When driving to a job you’ll most likely find me listening to True Crime (“My Favorite Murder” is a favorite). I also LIVE AND DIE by my Google Calendar. I have my full-time marketing calendar, my makeupxgenevieve calendar, and my personal calendar all linked up. Brides start planning sometimes years ahead of time, so making sure my calendar is always up to date is essential. My friends make fun of me because if we make informal plans to get brunch, they know to expect a Google Calendar invite from me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeupxgenevieve/