Live in: Cleveland, OH - Works in: Cleveland and NYC

Give us a little background on yourself.

Jessica Thomas is a professional freelance makeup artist based in the Cleveland, Ohio area. Jessica’s interest in makeup artistry began while working at Mac Cosmetics as a freelance makeup artist. After getting her feet wet in the makeup industry, it became quite clear to Jessica that making everyone feel beautiful, empowered, and inspired was her passion. Currently, Jessica is the beauty director for Fashion Talks as well as a beauty educator and influencer specializing in complexion matching for all skin tones and skin types.

Jessica's work can be viewed in Vogue Australia Magazine, Harpers Baazar Magazine, Elle Magazine, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Elegant Magazine, Haute Ohio Magazine Issues 16 and 19, Ohio Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week.

What drew you to a career in makeup?

Makeup was always a love of mine but I discovered early on it was also a form of solace and self-care for me. It wasn't until I began to realize the power of makeup to uplift, educate and inspire that led me to become a professional makeup artist. I really do feel that ultimately, makeup saved my life.

What is your philosophy when it comes to makeup?

Beauty has no rules!

What do you think makes makeup so special in our world?

The ability to connect with others to create, educate, uplift and inspire.

What are some of your notable and/or favorite projects?

Working backstage NYFW, becoming the beauty director for Fashion Talks and leading my own teams of hair and makeup artists, assisting celebrity makeup artist Kristephan Warren to glam up Carole King and her two daughters for her rock and roll hall of fame induction, doing makeup on WNBA star Lisa Leslie during All Star Weekend 2022 in Cleveland, learning makeup techniques from Sir John and Tiyana Robinson.