We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lucrezia Mapelli. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Lucrezia, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One of the biggest misunderstandings is the idea that makeup artists have a “signature look” they put on everyone. People assume we approach every face the same way, but true artistry is the opposite. Makeup should be fully customized to the person sitting in front of you—their features, their comfort level, their style, and how they want to feel.
It’s never about imposing my preferences on someone. It’s about listening, understanding, and enhancing who they are. My job is to make each woman feel like herself, just elevated—not to make her look like a copy of someone else.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Lucrezia Mapelli, a makeup artist and educator from Milan, Italy with over ten years in the industry and the founder of Lucrezia Mapelli Makeup Artist LLC. My work focuses on helping women feel like the best version of themselves—whether that’s for their wedding day, a photoshoot, or simply learning how to use makeup with more confidence.
Alongside client work, I’m passionate about elevating the level of artistry in the bridal and commercial space. I teach workshops and masterclasses for new and working makeup artists, giving them practical techniques, business guidance, and real-world skills they can use immediately. Recently, I’ve expanded my studio to host more education and bring in estheticians and other beauty professionals, creating a space that supports both artists and clients.
Right now, I’m focused on growing the educational side of my brand—building resources, in-person trainings, and content that empower makeup artists to improve their artistry and grow their businesses.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Letizia Maestri—my “makeup mom” from Milan—saw me long before I fully saw myself. I assisted her for two years, and she was the one who opened the door to the world of fashion, the Venice International Film Festival, celebrity work, and TV work. She recognized my potential before I had the confidence to claim it, and her mentorship shaped the way I approach artistry, professionalism, and the responsibility we have as makeup artists to elevate every face we touch.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely—there were moments I questioned everything. When I moved to the U.S., I suddenly found myself in a completely different market with different expectations, trends, and ways of working. It felt like starting from zero, and there were times it was overwhelming enough to make me wonder if I should just walk away.
But every time I reached that point, something small reminded me why I started—helping women feel incredible, creating art with my hands, and building community with other artists. Those moments kept me going and eventually helped me rebuild my career in a way that feels even more aligned than before.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Honesty. I value being straightforward, clear, and genuine—no sugar-coating, no pretending, no saying things just to please people. In an industry that can sometimes lean toward ego or flattery, I protect transparency and real communication at all costs. It keeps my work grounded, my relationships healthy, and my brand aligned with who I truly am.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
Not putting myself and my work out there more. For a long time, I focused so much on doing the work, improving my skills, and serving clients that I didn’t always share the process or the results. Looking back, I realize how many opportunities come from simply being visible—showing your artistry, your personality, your perspective.
If I let fear, perfectionism, or comparison keep me from sharing what I’m capable of, that’s something I’d regret. I want to make sure I’m not hiding behind the work, but actually stepping into it and allowing it to reach the people it’s meant to inspire or help.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lucreziamapellimakeupartist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucreziamapellimua
- Other: TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/lucreziamapellimua
Image Credits
Magdiel Photography & Media
Jenny Jolley Photography
