I Downsized My Makeup Kit

Do you ever wonder what products a pro makeup artist keeps in their kit?

I joke that my makeup kit is my third child. It really does require quite a bit of care and attention.

Depotting is a Game Changer

Have you heard the saying, “outer order, inner calm?” Having an organized kit keeps my mind clear and focused.

To eliminate the clutter and lighten the load, I depot most of my products, meaning I’ve taken most of my makeup out of its original packaging to save space. I’ve easily cut out 20 pounds of unnecessary weight, so I no longer have to lug a clunky kit to on-location wedding venues and up and down winding staircases.

Plus, I can carry tons more foundation shades once I’ve removed their bulky packaging so I’m prepared for a bride who just went on a beach vacation or scrubbed off a spray tan and might be a shade darker or lighter than she was at our trial.

So how do I choose what deserves real estate in my kit?

#1 Carry the best long-wear products

#2 Know how to use products in multiple facets for each client’s needs

I love to share my secrets so below is a list of my makeup can’t-live-withouts.

RCMA – This is a trusted pro brand that’s been around since 1952 and is best known for its flawless full-coverage foundation.

Chanel – I love most of this makeup line and can’t live without some of Chanel cream products, like this cream blush and this bronzing cream.

Mars – Concealers, blushes and pressed powder are staples in my kit.

MAC – My go to for blushes, setting mineral powder and lipsticks.

Illamasqua skin base foundation – For regular and oily skin.

Giorgio Armani – Foundation or normal to dry skin with a glowy finish.

Anastasia Beverly Hills, Natasha Denona and MAC – Easy-to-blend full-pigment eyeshadows.

Scott Barnes – His blush and contour palette has some of the best shade ranges and color payoffs I’ve ever seen.

Gerard Cosmetics – The best lip pencils.

Favorite Drugstore Products

I do have some drugstore makeup in my kit. L’Oreal mascara is my number one. I also love the Maybelline and Revlon lip stains.

Learn to Depot

Want more info on depotting? Check out the master, Grishan Roof, on Instagram @grishanroof. She’s really helped my kit game.

What are the products you can’t live without? I’d love to hear in the comments below. Need advice on specific looks for your wedding? Reach out to me at frances@beautybyblythe.com