Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsea Joseph.
Hi Chelsea, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have a very interesting journey. I’ve always known I wanted to go into the beauty space, but I’m not sure which aspect. When I was in undergrad, I wanted to drop out and go to Von Lee Esthetics in Baltimore, but my mom was not having it lol. I got my Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Trinity Washington University. The pandemic was my full-circle moment. During the pandemic, I was working from home and took the leap to go to Esthetics School. I went to Cortiva Institute in Baltimore during the pandemic. This was a rough journey because it was during the pandemic, so we were quarantining every time someone had COVID, traveling from DC, and working full-time. I even invested in classes with my instructor at the time, Stacy Lewis, to further learn the basics of makeup outside the classroom. From this point, I was taking clients in the house once I got my license and opened up my shop. Then, once I went back to work, I shifted gears in my business from a focus on waxing and facials to just makeup. I was part of a program called I-Artist at The Makeup Show, virtually. This was my first taste of makeup, but when my grandmother got sick and ended up passing, it took me away for two years. Soon after, I was ready to get back to it, but this time make up for lost focus. The Makeup Show had another in-person I-Artist in 2024, featuring 3 3-day intensives. I went to that program, and it changed my life. I was able to do Philly Fashion Week to NYFW. I have mentors from Danessa Myricks, James Vincent, and Ashunta Sherieff, to name a few. From there, I joined the Powder Group for more mentoring and classes to grow. 5 years and counting, I am a licensed Esthetician in 4 states and a Pro Makeup Artist, focusing on editorial, fashion, branding, and special events.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This has not been a smooth road. I went through many ups and downs. Walking away from my business to focus on my grandmother’s family cost me a lot. Also, losing friendships and business relationships in the process of growing. Making sacrifices no one understands, but staying the course was the biggest adjustment. The true statement, “people are here for seasons or a lifetime,” is what I lived through. I trust the path God put in front of me, and I try my hardest to lead in his grace.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Chelsea J Makeup is a beauty brand rooted in transformation, storytelling, and intentional design. I am a professional makeup artist and creative director specializing in elevated beauty looks, editorial concepts, and experience-driven visuals that go beyond surface-level glam. My work blends technical artistry with creative direction, allowing me not only to execute makeup but also to shape the full visual narrative from concept development to final execution.
I am known for creating transformative looks that enhance individuality, confidence, and self-expression. Whether working with everyday clients, creatives, or brands, I focus on making people feel seen, empowered, and confident while delivering polished, high-impact results. My signature style balances bold creativity with clean, intentional design, often drawing inspiration from art, culture, and personal storytelling.
What I am most proud of is building a brand that reflects both skill and purpose. I’ve cultivated a reputation for professionalism, thoughtful collaboration, and consistently delivering work that feels elevated and meaningful. I take pride in creating safe, inclusive spaces where clients and collaborators feel comfortable expressing themselves.
What sets me apart is my ability to merge makeup artistry with creative strategy. I don’t just create looks, I create experiences, concepts, and visuals with intention. This multidimensional approach allows me to support brands, campaigns, and individuals in telling authentic stories through beauty.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
You never stop at no and keep going till you get that yes. Go to events to network, engage on social media, slide into the DMS (lol) to gain opportunities, and listen to the ones who paved the way before you. Take some unpaid opportunities to get you into rooms you want to be in. Invest in yourself by attending master classes and conferences. Believe in yourself and dare to dream the things you never thought were tangible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vybzbeauty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelseaj.mua
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-nicole-joseph
