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Hidden Gems: Meet Candace Reed of Candy Coated Faces Makeup

Today we’d like to introduce you to Candace Reed

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Makeup has always been my passion. As a kid, I couldn’t resist sneaking in my mom’s Fashion Fair and Covergirl lipsticks, even if it meant breaking them! I knew I’d get in trouble, but the fascination with makeup was too strong. My parents were frequent attendees of the Ebony Fashion Fair Show, where they’d talk about the haute couture fashion blended with music and dance. It was mesmerizing to hear about how every detail came together to create beauty from head to toe. Then to later read about it in Ebony Magazine.

In high school, I finally got to wear makeup. I loved my pressed powder, eyeshadow sticks, eyebrow pencil and lip products. It felt like a whole new world! I met one of my best friends in high school, and together, we’d stay up late watching Fashion Trance discovering incredible artists like Pat McGrath and Sam Fine. MAC Cosmetics became my obsession, and their artistry drew me in even deeper. The looks they created were nothing short of magic.

At the University of Cincinnati, I discovered my love for doing makeup on others. Friends would ask me to do their makeup for parties or Spring Break, and I was hooked. After graduation, I started posting my work on Facebook, and soon, more people began to reach out. I realized makeup was not just a passion—it was my calling. After I gained experience in corporate America, I took a leap made my dream come true: I became a MAC Artist. That experience taught me so much about the art of makeup and opened so many doors.

From there, my business, Candy Coated Faces Makeup took off, far beyond what I ever expected. I’ve been fortunate to work with amazing people and artists who have helped shape my success as a makeup artist. My journey has been incredible, and there is still much more in store for me.

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?
Makeup is art, and as an artist, it’s my job to bring my clients’ visions to life while staying true to my passion. It’s about educating, guiding, and sharing the process with them. This journey has had its ups and downs, moments of doubt, but every challenge has been a lesson, pushing me to grow and keep going. I’m driven by the love for what I do, the beauty I create and they joy I bring to the people I get to service.

We’ve been impressed with Candy Coated Faces Makeup, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Candy Coated Faces Makeup is my passion, and I’ve worked to build a business that’s for everyone. I’m proud to be a versatile artist that offers diverse services from bridal to photoshoots, special occasions, and 1-on-1 classes. Whether you’re a makeup pro or trying it for the first time, my goal is to make you feel comfortable and confident. I’ve had the honor of working with amazing brands, other makeup companies, be published and even being the makeup artist for the glam team for Black Tech Week 2024. But what brings me the most joy is seeing the satisfaction on my clients faces. I’m excited for the future and the new opportunities ahead! Anyone can catch the glam at Candy Coated Faces!

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The makeup industry is loving natural, effortless looks. Clients are embracing soft, neutral glams with subtle pops of color, and there’s a real appreciation for simplicity. Cream blushes and bronzers are everywhere, giving skin that flawless finish. The 90s supermodel glam is making its return! Think natural matte skin, soft smokey eyes, and the iconic brown lip liner. It’s like the best of the past is back.

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