CEO of Unveil makeover studio, Bunmi Oyeniyi, epitomises the true meaning of an accomplished beauty expert. She is a seasoned professional make-up artist, an extraordinary businesswoman and a mother. In this interview with Woman Editor, TEMITOPE DAVID-ADEGBOYE, the Estate Survey graduate turned beauty specialist speaks on her career, mistakes women make with make-up and must-have tools
You are one of the first set of make-up artists who delved into a relatively unknown terrain about 15 years ago. What attracted you to the trade?
It was my passion for fashion that prompted me to demonstrate my ability and skills. I then decided to carve a niche for myself by going into the make-up business to explore my love for colours.
You’ve been quiet for a while now. What has been happening to you?
I haven’t been silent at all. The world has gone global, and in the same light, Unveil decided to focus most of its communication materials on social media sites and blogs. This, we believe will effectively reach our core target market rather than the numerous print materials like we used to do.
How would you describe your experience in the industry so far?
My experience with make-up is like being in a relationship. You make mistakes and learn from them and it makes you a better person. It has been tasking, challenging but rewarding.
Any woman in business has peculiar challenges. What are some of yours?
My first challenge is being a woman, although it’s a beautiful thing. Sometimes, I wish I was a man because in this part of the world people believe when you are a woman and you are successful; it’s difficult for you to be submissive to a man. But it’s actually the passion in you that drives you to take charge of every situation. Trying to give your business the time to be the best at what you do, finding time to be the woman that you are at home and then having time for yourself are also very challenging.
If you were not a make-up artist, what would you be?
I would have gone into modelling because I love fashion and looking good generally. I love everything that has to do with fashion. I love the runway. So, I would definitely have been a model.
How do you cope with competition from newcomers?
For me, I don’t see them as rivals; neither do I see them as competitors. I love tapping from fresh minds because they remind me of myself when I was much younger, especially the ones that I’ve trained. I love to see them climb that ladder because sooner or later, whether we like it or not, we will retire and leave the business in their hands.
From your point of view as a professional make-up artist, what are the basic things that strikes you when you are face-to-face with are client?
First, I love to build a relationship with my client. Then I consider her personality, features, location, her partner and the theme for the event.
What are the common mistakes women make with make-up?
Women make a lot of mistakes but the most visible is not getting the right shade. You have to identify who you are and identify the right shade for you; what kind of make-up suits you, your personality, age, and environment are also important.
To achieve a flawless look, what are the basic make-up tools that every woman should have?
You should have your professional make-up brushes. If you know you want to wear makeup, your brushes are very important. Personally, I don’t wear a lot of makeup. Depending on the skin type, the powder, brow pencil, inner eye rim pencil, mascara and a lip gloss are basic. You should fill in your inner eye rein, so that you don’t look dull or sickly. Use your mascara, lip gloss and then your powder. You don’t have to wear shadows if you don’t want a heavy makeup.
Is it true that make-up expires? How does one know the expiry date?
Like every other manufactured product, make-up has an expiry date. The texture, smell and look of it will tell you if it has expired.
Is there any health hazard when one uses any expired product?
Yes. Using an expired make-up product will cause reactions to the area(s) where the product is applied.
You studied Estate Survey at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). How did your parents react when you decided to take up make-up as a career?
Initially they weren’t sure, but over time they were supportive. And with prayers and blessings, they’ve realised it paid off.
Would you say you’ve achieved your aim of setting up Unveil makeover studio?
I have achieved my aim, but then I am not relaxing; innovation is important.
Any hope of practising the course you studied someday?
Never say never. For now, I’m still loving my make-up artistry.
So, what’s new with you now?
I have re-branded and I also have a pet project called ‘Unveil your Story’ where I invest in about two to three individuals who have been through a lot in life. I invest in them so they can also be their own bosses.