To say I'm a little bit obsessed with beauty is kind of an understatement. I cannot walk past a Sephora without wandering in, only to get lost within the aisles and undoubtedly walk out with something in hand. A small conquest, if you will. But more than makeup there is a job that interests me like none other- the makeup artist. These are the people behind the scenes making sure every lash is in order and there's not a bleeding lipstick situation. They take celebs, brides, you and me from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Often they move so fast you don't know when and what they applied in the crease, outer V and inner corner of the eyes...all you're left with is the perfect smokey eye.
One of theses artists, and indeed they are artists, is Dani Wagener. We became friends through Twitter, where she called me funny. Flatter my ego and I'll love you forever, ha! She's been recognized by Boston Magazine and Allure for her work and is currently, an Atelier Artist for shu uemura. After stalking her website, I finally decided that it was time for everyone to know of her unbelievable talent and skill. So without further adieu...The artist...Dani WagenerMissWhoeverYouAre: Tell me a little about your background and your time at shu uemura.Dani Wagener: I've been working as an artist since I was 19. I started out working for MAC part-time in college. I was never a really great salesperson but loved teaching people how to do their makeup! I just kept going and have since worked for NARS, Estée Lauder, and shu [uemura].MissWYA: Describe your earliest beauty experience/ memory?DW: Every year I would get the "Blockbuster" kit from Estée Lauder... that was always first on my list! I would use that for months! I actually wasn't allowed to wear any makeup, so I was always creating colors and blending! So even though I didn't think as a kid that I would be a makeup artist, I LOVED creating products and still my ultimate goal would be to have my own line.MissWYA: What keywords can be used to describe your quintessential beauty style: the inspirations, moods, and muses?DW: It's hard to limit my beauty style to just a few words. I like to think the looks that I create will make you look twice. They are classic, yet dramatic (I'm known for using lashes to dramatize a look), perfectly blended, and compliment my client's features.MissWYA: How has your aesthetic vision evolved since you've started in the industry?DW: My vision is constantly evolving because I'm always learning new techniques and testing new products, which spark ideas and inspire me. But, there's one thing that has always remained a constant- my obsession with flawless skin. Perfect skin completes any look or vision.Makeup by Dani Wagener www.daniwagener.comMissWYA: Favorite city to work in so far?DW: Boston is my city. It's rich with culture, the people are fabulous. Love it.MissWYA: What are some of your all time favorite beauty products?DW: Scott Barnes Chic Palette in Sundance, Brandywine; shu uemura Nobara Cream Foundation; Estée Lauder Amber Bronze Collection; NARS Lip Lacquer; Kiehl's Imperial Body Balm; shu uemura Pressed Eye shadows; Giorgio Armani Designer FoundationMissWYA: Any must haves for your makeup kit?DW: Temptu S/B Foundation, shu uemura Cleansing Oil, Clé de Peau Beaute concealer in Ocher and Ivory, Japonesque Brow Groomer/Scissor, Lashes, lashes, lashes!MissWYA: What is your personal makeup routine?DW: Tarte Bronzer Park Avenue Princess, MAC Lipglass Florabundance, NARS Turkish Delight, Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer 3 & 10, shu uemura Phtyo Black Cream, La Prairie Cellular Eye Cream, and MAC Cremeblush in Lady Blush.MissWYA: How would you describe your personal style?DW: Not too girly believe it or not. Glamorous but classy. MissWYA: Are there any makeup artists who inspire you or that you look up to?DW: Stephane Marais, Shu uemura, and Kevyn Aucoin (pictured left)MissWYA: What is the best advice you've received and from whom?DW: I can't say that one person ever gave me the best advice I've ever heard. I've had so many creative influences during my career. The key is to never stop listening and learning.MissWYA: What was the most valuable lesson you learned while at shu uemura?DW: So many things I've learned. Shu was such a positive person, open-minded person; I try to incorporate his positive outlook into my daily life. He's such an inspiration.MissWYA: Favorite spring trend?DW: I love the pop of color and shine that spring pastels bring.MissWYA: A few of my readers are current or aspiring makeup artists. Any tips or advice you can share with them?DW: Start small and be patient. Do everyone and anyone's makeup. Do your neighbors' makeup, your friends' makeup, your college dorm mates- anyone who will let you! Word will spread on its own. Also, leave your ego behind. It can be your worst enemy.Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, text "HAITI" to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross and aid in the relief effort. Thank you.
