When Holly Crowley-Nepia graduated six years ago, the first thing she did was set up her own business – Elite Makeup Artistry. Starting part-time on weekends alongside a full-time job, it became the perfect pathway into business ownership. Today, Holly has taken the leap into full-time self-employment, offering glam and bridal makeup, lessons, and even her own cosmetics line.
Working from her home studio in Maungaraki, Holly describes going full-time as “the best decision I’ve ever made.”
A day in the life of a busy makeup artist
A typical day for Holly starts early, preparing the studio for clients and checking emails and orders. She works across the Wellington region, including weddings in Martinborough, so travel can be a big part of the day. Brush cleaning, content creation, and social media are also part of the daily routine.
“Running your own business full-time really does push you to work to the fullest. If you don't work you're not getting paid - you are your own boss. Setting a routine for yourself every day is key.”
Holly’s favourite part of being a Makeup Artist is helping clients feel beautiful. “Whether it’s their wedding day or any other occasion, seeing their bright smile when they look in the mirror makes my entire day.”
Making the leap into study
Holly had been passionate about beauty from a young age. When a teacher suggested Whitireia and WelTec in Year 12, she jumped at the opportunity.
“Whitireia and WelTec had a great reputation, it was local and easy to get to using public transport. My application for a Māori and Pasifika Trades Training scholarship (MPTT) was also successful, which paid for my first year of study.”
Through the MPTT scholarship, Holly also had her learner driver licence fee covered, making it even easier for her to step into the workforce.
Find out more about the Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT) scholarship →
MPTT recipients receive a wide range of support. The Tamaiti Whāngai team will support you with mentoring, goal setting, pastoral and cultural support, and you'll have the opportunity to get your drivers license, and first aid certificates.
Gaining real world experience
Holly studied the Certificate in Makeup and Skin Care (now New Zealand Certificate in Skin Care and Cosmetics Level 3) and the New Zealand Certificate in Makeup Artistry (now the New Zealand Certificate in Makeup Artistry and Hairstyling). During her time studying, she got to work backstage as a Makeup Artist at World of Wearable Arts (WOW), and Miromoda, which is part of the Māori Fashion Awards.
“My experience at Whitireia and WelTec was amazing. The tutors were so helpful and made sure that every student got the correct help they needed. I was able to learn different areas of the industry like hair, skin care, film and makeup. This made it easier for me to know which career path I wanted to choose. The course also taught me how to work with customers and how to build a business.”
What’s Next
Holly’s vision doesn’t stop here. She plans to expand her client base worldwide, become an international makeup artist, and continue growing her cosmetics line.
Her advice for anyone looking to study is to go for it. “If you have a passion and want to turn it into a career this is definitely the place to be. The opportunities that come out of this course really are too good to miss.”
