Meet Nia Lydian | Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nia Lydian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nia, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
When I graduated from high school, makeup was not something I saw as a career. Growing up, I was told I needed a steady job to pay the bills, and makeup could be a hobby. I did what my parents expected of me. College is a great place to expand your mind. I learned things during that time in my life that I didn’t know about myself. I worked two jobs and went to school full time. Then the pandemic hit and I was forced to stand still and look at my life and where it was headed. I was always told that a steady job would pay the bills. The pandemic left people laid off and in debt. Seeing this allowed me to create a picture of my life, the life I wanted and not the one I was told I should have. Makeup was always a passion of mine, but I never took it seriously. During that time I put all of myself into this Instagram page. I would do four to five makeup looks a day. Slowly, it progressed. I was doing lives and meeting other makeup, brands who were reaching out and sending makeup for me to try. At that point, I started to see how this didn’t have to be a hobby. This could be a life. How different would life look if I woke up every day and did something that made me feel alive.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I believe what sets me apart is that I’m just me. I have never been someone who compared myself to others. I thrive when it’s me against me. To be and give my best always. Authenticity is an important part of my brand. Even when it comes to makeup looks and trends. I do things based on how they feel. Does it feel genuine to my brand or who I am as a person? The thing I am most proud of so far is the campaign I did for TOO FACED cosmetics last year. At twenty, I was working for Ulta as a color match specialist. I have always worn and sold their products because they are amazing! It was surreal when they reached out to me asking to be a part of it. I still remember it like it was yesterday and I am forever grateful for the experience. I am nowhere near where I want to be professional. I believe the moment we become complacent is the moment we stop growing and dreaming. The steps and strides I have made came from a place of discomfort. My dad always told me that success is always on the other side of the things that terrify you most. If you are not scared, you are not growing. Before 2020, I had spent my whole life being unafraid. I did things that made me feel safe. It was stepping out of the box I put myself in that has led me to the success and happiness I have now.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To My Sister Kennedy, Thank you for always believing in me. For all the hours you put into my dream when it was just that, a dream. I could not ask for a better friend, project manager, or sister. I love you

Website: Nia.Does.Makeup@gmail.com

Instagram: @Nia_does_Makeup

Facebook: Nia_does_Makeup