MJ Essence Makeup Artistry

Melissa possesses a talent like no other. I found her through word of mouth while seeking someone out to do my bridal makeup. First, I should say I am very selective and particular, some might even say difficult to please. That being said, Melissa exceeded my expectations for making me feel like the most beautiful bride on my special day. I don't normally wear much makeup, so I was worried about looking overdone. I scheduled a trial two days before my wedding, and she proved herself to be stellar at what she does! I was beyond pleased even just with the trial. I was so in love with her work, I did not even want to wash my face that night! She really listens to what look you want, and you can tell she loves what she does. These are all very important qualities! To top it off, you feel like she's a friend, since she's so personable. On the big day, Melissa worked with me to exceed what she did for me on the trial run. Not only did my makeup last, it photographed so exceptionally well. I literally felt like I came out of a magazine, because of how well she did my makeup. I felt like a million bucks and so beautiful, just as every bride should on her wedding day! I am normally quite self critical, but Melissa gave me nothing to criticize! I wish she was local for me, because I would love to have someone like her available to do my makeup for all of my special occasions. I will most definitely seek Melissa out again, the next time I'm in town. I don't even normally care for pictures much, but she makes you up so well, it makes you want to be photographed! :-) I highly recommend Melissa for any and all makeup needs...do not hesitate to hire her for whatever occasion you may need to look your very best. I have literally never been made up so gorgeous, as when Melissa made me up both on the trial and my wedding day! More...

Reviewed on WeddingWire

Melissa is great. I got married in Turks and Caicos and wanted to find a makeup artist that has a wide variety of clients. I was very happy to come across Melissa. she was very patient with me since I'm particular about my makeup. I didn't do a trial run but she came through beautifully on our wedding day. she did my makeup, my moms and my 4 bridesmaids. she made adjustments as needed to make sure we were happy. More...

Reviewed on WeddingWire

I was in search for a MUA in the TCI area for my sister's destination wedding. Others were recommended to us but I was not particularly impressed with their portfolio, especially as a woman of color. We were looking for someone who had experience doing a diverse group and who was able to give us the drama we were looking for without being garish. I did research for a solid 2 weeks before I came across Melissa's name. I researched and stalked her Instagram page for another 2 weeks and was very excited because I saw she had a really good range.

I reached out to her and she was very prompt in her communications and easy to work with. On the day of, she came in early and ready to go. The final product was amazing! She had us feeling GORGEOUS. I could not take enough pictures! I HIGHLY recommend Melissa and if she were to every come up to the NYC area (or I go down to TCI), I would most definitely use her again. More...

Reviewed on WeddingWire

Melissa was awesome to work with! She was professional, friendly and truly talented. My husband and I went to Turks & Caicos for our honeymoon and hired a professional photographer to take some pictures. My makeup by Melissa was flawless and I continue to receive compliments when people see the photos. She was able to come to my hotel suite and do my makeup for me there which was very convenient for me. I would give her my highest recommendation! More...

Reviewed on WeddingWire