July 27th, 2022
Next in our series focusing on the South West, we meet Christina Ouloupi, a freelance makeup artist with over 13 years’ experience working across bridal, editorial/fashion and beauty both in the UK and internationally.

MUA Christina Ouloupi
Christina is consistently creative and passionate about her work, whether working with a regular client or prepping an entire wedding party. Her personable demeanour and professional service has created a strong career for herself, and has built her a loyal client base.
She spent seven years working with MAC, being recognised for her talent and working on the MAC Events team. She turned freelance in 2015 and feels most fulfilled creating makeup looks that ensure her clients feel the best version of themselves. Christina works to enhance each client’s individual natural beauty and make them feel ultra-confident, sexy and powerful. Her versatility, stylist’s eye and experience give her a unique edge, which for clients creates a truly unique look for them every single time.
Her freelance work is varied and exciting – this is what drives and maintains her flawless artistry. She continuously aims to learn and strive for the best that she can. She loves to share her knowledge and experience through her series of masterclasses that she runs in and around Bristol.
We spoke to Christina about working in the south west, as well as the hero products in her kit bag.
We often see and hear from successful makeup artists working in London and it’s lovely to see you have gained a big following and clientele in Bristol. How much of your work and client base is in the Bristol area?
I would say around 70% of my work is around the Bristol areas. This has changed and demand has stretched outwards more recently.
Is there a good community of makeup and hair artists in Bristol? Do you have a network of people you regularly collaborate and consult with?
There is an amazing network of makeup and hair artists! It’s great as a lot of us have previously worked together and support each other often!
Yes I have a handful of people who I regularly work with or know I can rely on when I need a helping hand.
How long have you been building your business in Bristol? Do you see yourself travelling further afield in the future?
It has been 13 years of building in Bristol. Starting out at MAC cosmetics back in 2008 and going solo in 2015. I definitely see myself travelling further afield. I always said I wanted to travel all over.
What are your favourite wedding venues to work from in the area?
I would say Elmore Court, Coombe Lodge and Clevedon Hall.
What advice do you have for up and coming artists wanting to maximise their potential and build a client base in Bristol?
Be passionate and dedicated. Client base doesn’t just magically appear and so working on a counter to build a client base prior to going freelance is key. Service must be seamless.
Be ready to sacrifice weekends and work long hours. You can never stop learning to constantly stay on top of your game learning new things and trying new products.
What do you love about the city?
Bristol is such a diverse, multicultural, fun city! It’s beautiful!
Are you mobile or studio based?
I am mobile, I travel all over and rarely work from my own home.
If you were restricted to time and space what would be your bare minimum kit to create one of your signature glam looks? What products can multitask and what can you absolutely not do without?
I would have to make sure I have key skincare products: Hada Labo Tokyo Super Hydrating Serum and their Eye Serum.
A mixture of concealers to create a base. Tarte Shape Tape can be used to contour and bronze, also add dimension and definition to the eyes.
Cream blusher can also be used on the lips.
A setting powder.
Mascara and Sweed Lashes – no lash lashes!
I cannot live without MAC Cosmetics Cream Colour base to create the ultimate dewy glow.
Book a place on Christina’s next masterclass on 2nd October 2022.
Follow Christina on Instagram and Facebook.
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