Makeup By Chelsey, based in Eastbourne, is an award winning business run by Chelsey Woods whose work has been published internationally multiple times.
Chelsey, who is a finalist for the 2025 UK Hair and Beauty Awards, said that her makeup journey started in a rather unconventional manner.
She said: “My background was in makeup straight out of school, doing beauty therapy at Eastbourne college. I then worked in retail for around nine years. I remember going to the cinema to see La La Land and it moved me to change my career path and actually go for something in the beauty industry I had trained in. A few days later, I was made redundant at my retail job. I saw this as a sign to take a chance on myself and go for it.”
Chelsey’s business was voted as the best makeup business in the town over the past two years and she firmly believes that word of mouth and making connections with her clients has helped her succeed.
She added: “All of my bridal work is based on the art of making you look radiant and use makeup as a true art form. It took years of practice before I decided to take that leap, and start my own business.
"Since then, I have been transforming my clients for whatever occasions they need me for, from Halloween to bridal make up.
"I am passionate about what I do, and love to spread my love for makeup and cosmetics to all of my clients.
"I was voted best makeup artist business in Eastbourne in 2022 and 2023 by @eastbourneinsta account which is voted by the people of Eastbourne. I do pride myself on good word of mouth and customer service. I’ve always been told that people buy into you.. there’s so many amazing makeup artists in Eastbourne and surrounding areas, I’ve always tried to stand out by being true to myself and making real connections with my returning clients.”
Despite doing bridal work, Halloween makeup is where Chelsey says her true passion lies.
She added: “Bridal makeup keeps me busy all year round from doing trials to these women’s wedding days, but Halloween makeup is where my heart truly lies.
“I love doing anything creative and out of the box. Working on music videos, editorial photoshoots, and Halloween themed shoots.”
Chelsey has also branched out into photography and has seen her work published across the world multiple times.
“I used to do the makeup and then have to take a step back and let a photographer capture my vision,” she added.
"I started to show a real interest in the photography side of things, so last year I decided to get myself a camera and learn the ropes.
"I love the editing process and making my mood boards come to life. I’ve currently been doing photography for 10 months, I’ve been published internationally 29 times with four front covers of magazines.”
5. Makeup By Chelsey
Makeup By Chelsey, based in Eastbourne, is an award winning business run by Chelsey Woods whose work has been published internationally multiple times. Photo: Chelsey Woods
6. Makeup By Chelsey
Makeup By Chelsey, based in Eastbourne, is an award winning business run by Chelsey Woods whose work has been published internationally multiple times. Photo: Chelsey Woods