The beauty of teaching and makeup artistry by Belle Rubio
For professional makeup artist Isabelle “Belle” Rubio, the decision to leave the corporate world in 2017 was life-changing. After nearly eight years working in the IT industry, she shocked even herself when she handed in her resignation. Belle recalled, “And then overnight, I decided, I’m going to do makeup.”
Her new beginning started small and humble, practicing makeup artistry on anyone who would let her try her hand.
“I practiced with my neighbors and their household staff,” Belle said with a smile.
But what began as a leap of faith quickly turned into a calling. One of her former schoolmates booked her as a wedding makeup artist, and soon, word of mouth spread. It was the start of a flourishing career that continues to expand today.
Belle’s journey didn’t stop with practice. Determined to refine her craft, she pursued formal training abroad, studying makeup in New York City, Thailand, and Singapore. Each destination opened her eyes to different beauty standards—Thai bridal glam, Chinese artistry, and Western techniques.
“Studying makeup is continuous,” she explained. Belle also added what’s on her bucket list, “We still have London Makeup School.”
Belle wasn’t content with just learning. She wanted to share her knowledge too. In 2019, she began teaching makeup classes.
“I only had 15 students, and I remember it was for free,” she recalled.
By the time the pandemic hit, she had shifted her classes online, continuing to teach despite the challenges. When restrictions eased, demand for her workshops soared. From 30 to 60 students per batch, Belle’s classes became a sought-after training ground for aspiring artists.
“Teaching is my passion,” Belle said in the vernacular. “I really enjoy teaching. I like sharing what I know and what I’ve learned all over the world. Sharing is caring for me.”
She made it clear that she doesn’t believe in gatekeeping, whether it comes to products or techniques.
“Local or international brands, I just tell everything. How they are applied, the techniques, the shades, I teach all of those,” Belle added.
Makeup philosophy
As a bridal makeup artist, Belle has developed her own style and approach. For her, makeup is not about transformation but enhancement.
“For me, all brides are beautiful. We just make them feel and look more beautiful,” she said. To create an element of surprise, she hides the mirror from her brides while working.
“The most fulfilling when I do bride and makeup, I don’t show them the process. So when I show them what I did, it’s so heartwarming when they like the look so much and when they feel very beautiful on their most special day,” Belle proudly and happily shared.
On TikTok, you’ll find her relaxing conversations with nervous and seemingly anxious brides.
Top three essentials
When asked about her favorite products, Belle keeps it simple. “Moisturizer or primer, lipstick, and setting spray are my three favorite makeup items,” she said.
Moisturizer and primer provide the foundation for glowing skin, while lipstick, she noted, is multipurpose. “The lipstick could also be your eyeshadow, your blush, and your lipstick,” Belle explained. Completing her list of must-haves is a setting spray, which ensures that the look lasts all day.
At the core of Belle’s artistry is a philosophy of authenticity. “With Belle makeup, less is more, and your glowing skin is coming from within,” the passionate makeup artist said when asked to describe her signature style. It’s a belief shaped by her years of learning, teaching, and working with brides on the most important day of their lives. The same glow is seen on her face as a real-life fairy godmother who found her vocation.
Belle’s story is proof that reinvention can happen at any point in life. And while London may be her next target destination, for now, she is content making brides feel their most radiant and teaching the next generation of artists that beauty is meant to be shared.
Follow Belle’s journey on social media (@teambelledoesmakeup).
For your random thoughts, email the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.
