BusinessEntrepreneurship

More Than Makeup

Kellsie Bain

More Than Makeup with Kellsie Bain — real conversations about scaling a beauty business, treating yourself like a true entrepreneur, building a powerful brand, and everything that happens behind the scenes.

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20 episodes
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#28
August 19 · 14 min
Wedding Content Is Gold: The New Monetization Trend
There is a massive new shift happening right now at the intersection of beauty marketing and the wedding industry, and I wanted to jump on an episode while it’s fresh on my mind! Brands are no longer just sending PR packages to brides; they are actively integrating themselves into wedding weekends, welcome parties, and getting-ready footage. In this episode of More Than Makeup, I’m breaking down why wedding content is having such a viral moment and how beauty creators like Danielle Estrada and Acquired Style are closing major brand deals directly on their wedding days. We dive into why bridal content offers brands the ultimate storytelling tool—emotional proof, heat-tested longevity, and aspirational beauty. Plus, I share how my Paris chateau wedding turned into skincare gifting from Dieux, why viral moments like Shay Sullivan’s wedding are missed monetization opportunities without affiliate links, and how you can strategically pitch brands before your next big event. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Master International Destination Bookings: Get my exact pricing guides and pitching strategies inside the Global Glam Course. Level Up Your Video Editing: Learn how to shoot and edit brand-ready reels with The Beauty Edit Course. Work With Me: Head over to my digital home at Kellsie Bain Makeup to join upcoming business coaching cohorts.
August 18 · 59 min
20 STEPS TO 200K: Here Is What It Actually Took
I am back home, settled into our new house, and doing a deep-dive audio episode after an incredible six weeks of destination weddings in Europe! Recently, my Instagram passed 200,000 followers—a milestone that feels completely surreal when I remember my very first goal was simply reaching 10K. Passing 200K isn't about chasing a million eyes; it’s about reflecting on the hundreds of tiny, compounding decisions made over the last six to seven years. In this episode of More Than Makeup, I am pulling back the curtain on my brand updates—including moving house, stepping away from in-person masterclasses to focus on business mentorship, and signing with Shine Talent Group. Then, we dive into my 20 exact steps to 200K. We talk about why collaboration always beats competition, how to build a corporate-level discipline for your personal brand, treating content creation as free marketing, and the exact mindset shifts you need to step into your power as a beauty entrepreneur. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Master Destination Weddings: Learn how to book international clients with my Global Glam Course. Level Up Your Video Editing: Check out The Beauty Edit Course for a quick crash course on creating high-converting reels. Explore Mentorship & Programs: Head over to my digital home at Kellsie Bain Makeup to join upcoming coaching waitlists. Bridal Glow Masterclass – Online demonstration of signature luminous bridal makeup techniques.
July 20 · 49 min
What Actually Defines Luxury? Inside High-End Destination Weddings with Oana Events
I am recording this week's episode from beautiful Lake Como, Italy, because after six weeks on the road doing destination weddings in New York, London, Paris, and Umbria, I wanted to sit down with someone who truly lives and breathes elite luxury. Today’s guest is my gorgeous friend Oana Nechifor, the mastermind behind Oana Events—one of Europe's premier luxury wedding planners across Italy and the South of France. Oana and I met two years ago when we worked on Jordan Giorgio’s viral Lake Como wedding, an event that completely took over social media and reshaped the modern beauty and bridal landscapes. Now, we’re back in Como celebrating Jordan’s anniversary, and we’re pulling back the curtain on the real architecture of top-tier events. We dive into what the word 'luxury' actually means beyond a price tag, how a single calculated investment—like a surprise riverboat—can lock in dream clients, and why your social media is the ultimate filter for attracting high-net-worth bookings. If you are ready to stop chasing every generic client and learn how to position yourself as an exclusive, out-of-reach expert, this conversation is your ultimate masterclass. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Tap Into the Global Luxury Market: Master your contracts, travel structures, and vendor positioning with my Global Glam Course. Follow Oana Nechifor: See her breath-taking portfolios and curated Italian events on Instagram @‌oanaevents. Explore Masterclasses & Private Mentorship: Head over to my digital home at Kellsie Bain Makeup to apply for upcoming business cohorts.
#25
July 8 · 1 hr 1 min
Booked 1 Month Out: My Biggest Destination Wedding Yet
The absolute chaos that was the Chateau wedding in Paris completely took over the internet last week, and my inbox has been flooded with hundreds of questions. In this episode of More Than Makeup, I'm sitting down with my amazing friend and assistant, Madison Kelly, to debrief the biggest wedding of my career so far. We are pulling back the curtain on absolutely everything: how I booked an influencer bride just one month before the wedding, what it really takes to calculate luxury destination travel fees, the truth about going in completely blind without a makeup trial, and the exact strategy behind posting 37 reels in four days to gain 7,000 new followers. If you've ever dreamed of flying across the world to work with luxury planners and high-end clients, this unfiltered conversation is your step-by-step masterclass. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Learn the Destination Blueprint: Grab my exact pricing guides and contracts inside the Global Glam Course. Follow the Team: Connect with Maddy on Instagram @‌madisonkelly.mua and see the stunning bride Natalie Cortes. Work With Me: Head over to my digital home at Kellsie Bain Makeup to join our upcoming masterclass waitlists.
#24
June 18 · 41 min
8000 Followers in 90 Days: The Strategic Shifts Behind Leah Laviano’s Viral Growth
I am so excited to share this episode because it is proof of what happens when you get out of your own way and step into your personal power. Today, I’m sitting down for a live mentorship graduation with the incredibly talented Leah Laviano. Three months ago, Leah was running a successful bridal team in Virginia Beach, but she felt completely lost, time-poor, and disconnected from her personal brand. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the exact strategic shifts that took her from 14k to over 22k followers in just 90 days, how a simple Instagram handle change completely shifted her CEO mindset, and why letting go of control is the only way to scale your income without burning out. If you’ve been hiding behind your business name or letting imposter syndrome keep you from pitching to big brands, this conversation is your ultimate wake-up call. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Follow Leah Laviano on Instagram Trial Reels: A Game-Changing Instagram Strategy for Makeup Artists Listen now to "How to Land Brand Deals" Episode
#23
June 3 · 58 min
Live Coaching Session with Brittney Eileen Beauty
I’m sitting down for a very special, live coaching episode with one of my brilliant mentorship students, Brittney from Brittney Eileen Beauty! We just wrapped up her three-month mentorship journey, and instead of doing our final strategy call behind closed doors, we decided to bring the coaching session straight to the microphone. Brittney is an elite bridal makeup artist out of Boston who hit that classic $150k glass ceiling and knew she wanted to scale beyond the brush. In this episode, we break down her explosive social media growth during the program, including a video that hit over 3 million views, how she navigated her first massive wave of viral internet hate, and the exact steps we took to launch her new income streams in beauty education and brand partnerships. If you're ready to see what high-level business mentoring actually looks like in real-time, grab your notebook. Connect with Brittney: Follow her on Instagram and TikTok @‌brittneyeileenbeauty. Mentorship Waitlist: Ready to be the next A-plus student? Secure your spot on the waitlist for the next cohort.
#22
May 22 · 1 hr 32 min
Why Your Health is Your Greatest Business Asset with Darcie Powell
I called this podcast More Than Makeup for a reason. As entrepreneurs, our health is our greatest business asset, yet so many of us in the wedding industry are running on caffeine and fumes. In this episode, I’m joined by my personal nutritionist, Darcie Powell, to talk about how to stop the 'starve and crash' cycle. We’re diving into the science of blood sugar, why your 'bridal breakfast' of black coffee is killing your energy, and how to fuel your body so you actually have a life left at the end of a wedding weekend. If you’ve ever felt like you’re hitting a wall by 2:00 PM or crashing for two days after a job, this episode is the wellness deep-dive you’ve been waiting for. Mentioned in this episode: Discount Code: Use code "MORETHANMAKEUP" for a discount on all of Kellsie’s online courses and digital products. Your Pathway To Happiness Website Your Pathway To Happiness Instagram Episode on Grief: Grieving through the bridal season Toronto Masterclass: Final spots available! Mentorship: Join the waitlist for the next high-level cohort.
#21
May 14 · 32 min
From Corporate to Creative: My Career Journey
I constantly get asked: 'Kellsie, how did your old career in corporate event planning impact the way you run your makeup business today?' The truth is, my old career built almost everything I do now. In this episode of More Than Makeup, I’m taking you down memory lane to discuss the transition from the corporate world to full-time artistry. We’re talking about the 'nudge' that tells you it’s time to quit, why your corporate skills are actually your secret weapon in the beauty industry, and how to know when you're ready to take the leap. Whether you’re currently working a 9-to-5 or you're already full-time and looking to bring more structure to your brand, this episode is a masterclass in professional evolution. RESOURCES MENTIONED: If you're feeling that nudge, here’s my masterclasses! Mentorship Waitlist: Ready to build your own digital engine? Join the waitlist. Confidence & Imposter Syndrome Episode
#20
April 25 · 18 min
Makeup Artists and Influencers: The $1,000 Collaboration Debate
The makeup world has been noisy this week, but I’m not here for the negativity. In this episode of More Than Makeup, I’m taking the viral 'MUA vs. Influencer' debate and turning it into a high-level business masterclass. We’re moving past the $1,000 quote drama to talk about the actual strategy behind influencer marketing. I’m sharing my own experience with collaborations, how to audit your data to see what’s actually working, and why you need to stop making business decisions based on feelings. Whether you believe in paid collaborations or strictly 'pro-bono' artistry, this episode will help you understand how to use your analytics to grow your brand and your bank account. Resources: Kellsie’s Mentorship Waitlist Use code MORETHANMAKEUP for 10% off all of my online courses and masterclasses
#19
April 21 · 24 min
I Lost $40,000 Last Week
I’ve debated whether to share this, but I refuse to only show you the highlight reel. In this episode of More Than Makeup, I’m sharing the raw, unfiltered story of how I lost $40,000 in less than 24 hours. This wasn't a bad investment or a scam; it was the result of a single decision I made at 3:00 AM in a hotel room to cancel my fully booked Toronto masterclass. I’m walking you through the 'perfect storm' of logistics, the high standards I refuse to compromise on, and the reality of what it costs to prioritize your reputation over your bank account. If you’ve ever faced a crisis in your business that tested your integrity, this episode is for you. Resources: Kellsie’s Mentorship Waitlist Global Glam — Kellsie’s course on booking destination weddings
April 16 · 1 hr 7 min
The Business of Virality: How Shelby Ann Bell Built a Digital Empire
I’m sitting down in New York with the viral queen herself, Shelby Ann Bell! With 2 million followers and counting, Shelby is proof that 'overnight success' usually takes years of hard work. In this episode of More Than Makeup, we’re pulling back the curtain on the business engine behind the viral videos. We talk about her journey from a pro MUA of 10 years to a full-time creator, the reality of managing a 'parasocial' relationship with millions of followers, and why authenticity is her secret weapon. If you’ve been wondering how to turn views into a sustainable business while staying true to your artistry, this conversation is for you. Mentioned in this episode: Follow Shelby: @‌shelbyannbell on TikTok and Instagram for the best beauty vibes. Mentorship Waitlist: Ready to build your own digital engine? Join the waitlist.
#17
April 3 · 56 min
Building A Million Dollar Makeup Business with Selena Marchand
I’ve been following Selena Marchand since 2022, and today I finally get to sit down with her in person! In this episode of More Than Makeup, we are tackling the one thing most artists are terrified of: getting in front of the camera. Selena is a testament to the fact that it is never too late to start; she didn't even start posting her face until three years ago, and now she's building a digital empire. We’re breaking down the shift from being a 'service provider' to a 'content creator,' how to handle the fear of judgment, and the exact strategies for going viral in 2026. If you feel like you’ve 'missed the boat' because you're in your 30s or you're scared to show your personality, this episode is the kick in the pants you need to start posting. Mentioned in this episode: Follow Selena Marchand: Check out her incredible journey and tips on Instagram. Mentorship: Join the waitlist for the next high-level cohort.
March 23 · 1 hr 25 min
Storytelling Through Content: with Brittany Jayne from Muse By Her
In this episode, I’m sitting down with one of the first people I met when I moved to Canada, the incredibly talented Brittany Jayne, founder of Muse By Her. We’re diving into the world of content creation and social media management specifically for women-led beauty and lifestyle brands. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by 'doing it for the Gram' while trying to actually do your job as an artist, this conversation is for you. We discuss the transition from being a one-woman show to building a creative agency, the importance of storytelling over just 'pretty pictures,' and how to elevate your brand through high-end content. Brittany also shares her journey of doubling her revenue by implementing systems and automations, and why she’ll always make time to film my masterclasses! Mentioned in this episode: Follow Brittany: Check out her work at @‌musebyher. Toronto Masterclass: Final spots available! Mentorship: Join the waitlist for the next high-level cohort.
March 15 · 22 min
Stop Trying To Do Everything Alone
If you’re a makeup artist who is busy but still feels stuck, this episode is your sign to get some help. Kellsie Bain gets real about the moment she realised she couldn’t grow her business and do everything herself at the same time, and what happened when she finally let someone else in. In this episode, Kellsie walks through her journey of going from solo operator, staying up until 11pm trying to build her own Squarespace site, to hiring specialists that freed up her brain, her time, and her creativity. This is the episode that will make you stop procrastinating and finally get the help your business needs. Mentioned in this episode: Global Glam — Kellsie’s course on booking destination weddings Live Podcast Event in New Jersey (April 7) with Jamie Saunders Toronto Masterclass — limited spots remaining Kellsie’s Mentorship Waitlist Use code MORETHANMAKEUP for 10% off all of my online courses and masterclasses
#14
March 1 · 1 hr 16 min
The Truth About Destination Weddings with Jessica Wolfert
I’m coming to you live from Mexico for this one! In this episode of More Than Makeup, I’m joined by my friend and talented Toronto-based makeup artist, Jessica Wolfert, to pull back the curtain on what it’s actually like to be an international destination makeup artist. We all see the glamorous Instagram shots of sunsets and spicy margaritas, but today we’re getting real about the grit behind the glam. From navigating language barriers and unpredictable climates to surviving high-stakes travel disasters—like the infamous "Amsterdam Fire" that nearly derailed everything—we’re sharing the stories that don't make the grid. Whether you’re an aspiring makeup artist looking to book your very first international wedding or a seasoned pro makeup artist wanting to refine your travel rates and contracts, this conversation is a deep dive into the business strategy you need to go global. Connect with Jessica Wolfert: https://jessicawolfertmakeup.com/ Use code MORETHANMAKEUP for 10% off all of my online courses and masterclasses https://kellsiebainmakeup.com/pages/education In 2026, I will be taking on a limited number of Makeup Artists for personalised mentorship. To be the first to hear when applications open, join the waitlist below. https://manage.kmail-lists.com/subscriptions/subscribe?a=SBb7Mn&g=ThSqDB
#13
February 8 · 1 hr 11 min
Let’s Get Real: Q&A Edition
In this special Q&A episode, Kellsie Bain gets personal, sharing the life experiences and mindset shifts that have shaped her into the entrepreneur she is today. She opens up about her upbringing, her journey to finding love in a new country, and how she balances a high-level international career with her personal life. Whether you're a beauty professional looking for business inspiration or simply want to know the woman behind the brand, this episode offers a deep dive into the "why" behind Kellsie's drive. CHAPTERS: Introduction: Thinking Outside the Bridal Box Life Before Makeup: My Corporate Event Planning Career The Tragedy That Shaped My Work Ethic Lessons from My Mother: Resilience and Drive Moving to Canada: The Loneliest Year of My Life The $50 Rebuild: Starting My Business From Scratch How I Met My Husband (The Crypto Scam Story) Dating in Your 30s: Why You Should Never Settle Career vs. Family: Navigating the Fertility Clock Finding a Partner Who Supports Your Ambition Why I Say "Yes" to Every Opportunity Rapid Fire Q&A: Business Advice & Mindset
#12
January 24 · 41 min
How to Set Business Boundaries as a Makeup Artist
In the fast-paced world of the beauty industry, "hustle culture" often tells us that more is better—more clients, more content, more visibility. But what happens when the constant demand for your energy starts to drain your creativity? In this episode of More Than Makeup, Kellsie Bain explores the essential topic of boundaries in the makeup business. Using her own podcast schedule as a case study, Kellsie discusses the importance of setting boundaries with your time, your technology, and your business expectations. She reveals why she is officially moving the podcast to a bi-weekly (fortnightly) schedule and how this boundary is a strategic move to ensure the longevity of her brand and the quality of her education. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why I’m Pivoting to Video Overcoming Tech-Paralysis and Procrastination Lessons from a Social Media Detox The Reality of "Hustle Culture" in the Beauty Industry Why Boundaries are Essential for Business Longevity Moving to a Bi-Weekly Schedule: Setting a Professional Boundary Done is Better Than Perfect: Launching on YouTube Prioritizing Peace in 2026 Join Kellsie in Person! Kellsie is heading to New York and Toronto this April for a brand immersion and artistry masterclass. Come learn branding, content creation, and makeup skills in person. Tickets: Available at https://kellsiebainmakeup.com/collections/masterclasses
#11
January 11 · 18 min
4 Essential Marketing Tips to Grow Your Business in 2026
Is your marketing strategy ready for 2026? In this episode of More Than Makeup, Kellsie Bain dives deep into the four essential marketing pillars every makeup artist needs to master to attract high-ticket bridal clients and build a powerful online presence. The industry is evolving, and simply posting a "before and after" is no longer enough to stand out. Kellsie shares her "marketing brain" secrets on why video is non-negotiable, how to transition from a makeup artist to a storyteller, and why your email list is actually a "gold mine" for your future business In this episode: 00:00 Introduction to the 4 Marketing Pillars for 2026 00:44 Pillar 1: Prioritizing Multi-Platform Video Content 05:10 Pillar 2: Personal Branding and Storytelling 10:17 Pillar 3: Nurturing Your Email List 12:53 Pillar 4: Collaboration and Community Building 15:08 4 Marketing Pillars to Grow Your Makeup Business in 2026 If you’re a millennial artist struggling with editing or trending audios, check out Kellsie’s course, The Beauty Edit, designed to make video creation uncomplicated and engaging. Link: https://kellsiebainmakeup.com/products/the-beauty-edit Discount Code: MORETHANMAKEUP Join Kellsie in Person! Kellsie is heading to New York and Toronto this April for a brand immersion and artistry masterclass. Come learn branding, content creation, and makeup skills in person. Tickets: Available at https://kellsiebainmakeup.com/collections/masterclasses In 2026, I will be taking on a limited number of Makeup Artists for personalised mentorship. To be the first to hear when applications open, join the waitlist below. Mentorship Waitlist
#10
Dec 27, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
Breakthrough coaching call with Chloe Day
In this episode, Kellsie Bain walks Makeup Artist Chloe Day through a real coaching call and mentorship session. Together, they dive into what it truly takes to build a sustainable, profitable beauty business — from online growth and positioning yourself confidently on social media, to handling online haters, hosting your very first masterclass, and everything in between. This is an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation filled with practical advice, mindset shifts, and real mentorship moments. Around the 50-minute mark, Chloe experiences a major breakthrough that will resonate with any artist who has ever felt stuck or unsure of their next move. This is a longer episode, but it’s packed with value from start to finish — make sure you listen all the way to the end. In 2026, Kellsie will be taking on a limited number of Makeup Artists for personalised mentorship. To be the first to hear when applications open, join the waitlist below. Mentorship waitlist: https://manage.kmail-lists.com/subscriptions/subscribe?a=SBb7Mn&g=ThSqDB Chloe Day Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloedaymua/
Dec 21, 2025 · 59 min
From assistant to a six figure bridal business - with Claire Jamieson
In this episode of More Than Makeup, host Kellsie Bain sits down with her former assistant Claire Jamieson to discuss Claire's journey from being an assistant to becoming a successful bridal makeup artist and educator. They reflect on their experiences working together, the importance of work ethic, and the challenges faced in the makeup industry. Claire shares her insights on achieving six-figure success, launching masterclasses, and the realities of creating digital products. The conversation emphasizes the significance of persistence, professionalism, and the power of reflection in personal and professional growth. Use code MORETHANMAKEUP for 10% off all of my online courses and masterclasses https://kellsiebainmakeup.com/products/the-masterclass-manual Toronto Masterclass Tickets: https://kellsiebainmakeup.com/products/toronto-the-brand-and-artistry-immersion NYC Tickets: https://kellsiebainmakeup.com/products/new-york-the-brand-and-artistry-immersion Global Glam Course: Linked here Bridal Makeup Masterclass: Linked here

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