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The Makeup by Kiley Smith

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I'm Kiley Smith, an experienced makeup artist with over 20 years in the industry, based in Fairfax City, Virginia. 
My passion lies in creating natural, radiant makeup looks that enhance your beauty, ensuring you feel confident and stunning with a flawless finish. 

I'm Kiley smith

Hello!

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It might surprise some people, but Yes, Makeup Artistry Is a Real Job. Many assume being a makeup artist is simply about playing with products, yet in reality, this career requires advanced skill, creativity, and professionalism. From weddings and photoshoots to television and editorial work, makeup artists deliver far more than just a beautiful face. […]

Yes, Makeup Artistry Is a Real Job

Makeup

Makeup

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When you’re a beauty professional working with brides, brands, and private clients, protecting your time and talent is essential. It’s not optional. Over the years, I’ve learned that clear, professional contracts are one of the best ways to avoid confusion and build trust. That’s exactly why I trust The Legal Paige for my contracts—and why […]

Why I Trust The Legal Paige for My Contracts

Weatherwood Cottage, Cape Cod

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A Week on Cape Cod: Beaches, History, and Coastal Charm Cape Cod has been on our travel list for years, and this summer we finally made it happen. We spent a week soaking up the history, charm, and coastal beauty of the Cape, basing ourselves in Barnstable at a historic gem—Weatherwood Cottage. Staying at Weatherwood […]

A Week On Cape Cod

Travel

Bride-to-Be

Summer Wedding Bridal Makeup Tips

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Planning A Summer Wedding… Planning a summer wedding in Northern Virginia or the DC area? You’re not alone! It’s one of the most popular seasons for weddings — and for good reason. The lush greenery, long daylight hours, and golden sunsets are the stuff bridal dreams are made of. But summer also brings heat, humidity, […]

Summer Wedding Bridal Makeup Tips

Cleansing-Balms-Makeup-Artist-DMV-NOVA-DC-MD-VA-BRIDAL-WEDDING-SKINCARE-

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As a professional makeup artist, I know that beautiful makeup always begins with healthy, clean skin. That’s why I love using cleansing balms to remove makeup. Whether I’m preparing a client’s skin for application or helping a bride remove a full day of glam, cleansing balms are my go-to—and for good reason. Gentle Yet Effective […]

Why I Love Using Cleansing Balms to Remove Makeup

Makeup

Makeup

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As a professional makeup artist who specializes in skin-forward, radiant beauty, I’m always searching for products that perform beautifully and treat the skin with care. Over the years, I’ve tried countless brands, but very few check every box the way Tower28 does. Their products are gentle, effective, and thoughtfully designed with even the most sensitive […]

The Tower28 Products I Love for Sensitive Skin

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As a professional makeup artist, my goal is simple: help every client look and feel their absolute best. Whether you’re heading to a photoshoot, walking down the aisle, attending a gala, or joining a Zoom meeting—you deserve makeup that looks flawless in every kind of lighting. That’s exactly why I use The Makeup Light, a […]

Why I Use The Makeup Light for Every Client

Makeup

Makeup

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Living right outside of Washington, DC, I work with many busy professionals—lawyers, realtors, federal employees… you get the idea. I love helping them look and feel their best, but I also know that between long commutes, family responsibilities, and packed schedules, makeup often takes a backseat. As a business owner, wife, and mom of two, […]

15 Minute Zoom Makeup for Professionals

Skincare Tips for Over 40

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As we age, our skin’s needs shift—hormonal changes, dryness, and loss of elasticity can make our old routines less effective. Instead of chasing trends promoted by influencers with flawless, filtered skin, it’s time to focus on simple, effective skincare that truly supports mature skin. Here are my top skincare tips for over 40. The Essentials 1. Keep […]

Skincare Tips for Over 40

Skincare

Makeup

When to book your makeup artist

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Planning your wedding can feel overwhelming with all the decisions you need to make. But when it comes to booking your makeup artist, timing is everything! In this blog post, I’ll cover when to book your wedding makeup artist to make sure you get the perfect person for your big day. Whether you’re getting married […]

When To Book Your Wedding Makeup Artist

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The wedding experience

INquire with Kiley

I specialize in professional makeup services, including bridal makeup, photoshoot makeup, and personalized makeup lessons—some of my most sought-after offerings. I also provide expert makeup for special events, TV, and editorial projects. Explore all of my services here!

Discover my signature wedding experience, crafted to give you flawless, natural, and radiant makeup for your special day. From our initial consultation to the final touch-up, I’m here to provide a luxurious and stress-free experience tailored to your unique vision. Click to learn more!

Ready to bring your vision to life? Whether it’s for your wedding, a photoshoot, or a special event, I’d love to work with you. Click to inquire, and let’s start planning a personalized experience just for you!