Daily Inspiration: Meet Audra Noblet

Today we’d like to introduce you to Audra Noblet.

Audra, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always loved makeup and all things beauty but I never would have dreamed I could turn it into a career. I got my first job as a receptionist at a salon where I met so many talented beauty professionals that inspired me to pursue a career in beauty. One day while shopping at the MAC cosmetics store on the Plaza, a manager approached me and asked if I would be interested in interviewing with them. I was honestly shocked and beyond flattered. Makeup had become my passion in my personal appearance and expression but I had only just begun practicing artistry on others for fun. I have always been a fan of MAC cosmetics, I loved their inclusive motto “All ages, all races, all genders” and their huge range of innovative products. As a long-time shopper, I never dreamed of being talented enough or cool enough to be like the MAC artists I looked up to. But I ignored my inner doubt and gave it my all. From there, my cosmetic career began with the help of my incredible coworkers. If you know anyone who has ever worked for MAC, you’ll hear them recall the supportive community of artists who are willing to teach and learn from each other.

I received advanced certifications in makeup artistry with their help as well as their amazing hands-on training team. I worked for MAC for several years before going on to work for other prestige cosmetics brands such as Laura Mercier and Stila Cosmetics. I loved my time working in Sephora’s and Ultas, expanding my artist community across the city. I married my long-time partner in 2017 and decided to settle down and come back to MAC as a full-time artist. After the covid-19 pandemic, my position was eliminated and I decided to take my eight years of makeup artistry experience on the road and began my freelance business. I’ve since had the opportunity to work with many incredible vendors and makeup artists in the Kansas City wedding community that have helped me grow my business while doing what I love the most, making people feel beautiful. I hope to continue to grow my artistry and give my clients the best experience possible.

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?
There have been many obstacles along the way. Besides the initial intro to makeup application and certifications, beauty is an ever-growing industry and trends, skills, and techniques are constantly changing. I’ve had moments where I wanted to quit and felt like I was not talented enough. Losing my job after the pandemic was terrifying and I considered many options before finding my footing as a freelancer.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a professional freelance makeup artist. I specialize in bridal and special occasion makeup for people of all ages, races, and genders. My most requested makeup look is romantic and glowy glam. I’d like to think that anyone who sits in my chair feels safe and comfortable with me. I love learning about my client’s personality throughout a session and how that comes out in their final look.

What makes you happy?
Seeing a client’s genuine reaction to their look makes my heart soar. Nothing is better than knowing I helped someone feel their best.

I am also a mother to my 18 months old son, Forest and being with him is truly the happiest I ever am. Having a career that allows me to spend time with him while making my own schedule is all I could ever ask for.

Pricing:

• Bridal makeup – $150
• Bridal trial – $100
• Bridal party – $85 each
• Individual makeup session – $100

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: audraashleeartistry.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/audraashleeartistry
• Facebook: Facebook.com/audraashleeartistry

Image Credits:
– Jenny Shipley photography (photo of me in mask) – Meredith Graves Photography (black and white photo and color version) – Deana Coufal Photopraghy (photo of smiling bride and groom)