Blog

The Makeup by Kiley Smith

Facebook Copy-color Created with Sketch.
Instagram-color Created with Sketch.

Explore

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!

summer bridal makeup Northern Virginia bride

Read it!

Let’s be real — summer in the DC metro area is brutal. By late June, temperatures climb into the 90s, humidity hits the moment you step outside, and wedding days run 10 to 12 hours from getting ready to last dance. That’s a lot to ask of anyone’s makeup. The good news? The right preparation, […]

Summer Bridal Makeup: Northern Virginia & DC Guide

Makeup

Makeup

Read it!

Every bride has that one image she keeps returning to — saved on her phone, pinned to her board, or simply living rent-free in her mind. And more often than not, it isn’t a dress or a venue. It’s a face. A feeling. A woman who walked into a room and looked effortlessly, undeniably like […]

Your Bridal Makeup Style, According to Your Favorite It Girl

Read it!

There’s something especially magical about an autumn wedding at Goodstone Inn & Restaurant. The rolling hills, golden leaves, and quiet countryside create a setting that feels both intimate and timeless. Lauren and Mitchell’s October wedding captured that feeling beautifully—elegant, relaxed, and deeply personal. Originally from Texas and now living in London, the couple thoughtfully wove […]

An Autumn Wedding at Goodstone Inn

Makeup

Makeup

Read it!

Your bridal makeup trial is an essential step in preparing for your wedding day look. It gives you the chance to explore options, communicate with your makeup artist, and feel confident before walking down the aisle. However, many brides unknowingly make simple mistakes that can keep their trial from being as successful as it could […]

Common Bridal Trial Mistakes

Professional makeup artist applying cleansing balm to remove makeup, demonstrating gentle skincare technique

Read it!

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. Why […]

Why I Use Cleansing Balms to Remove Makeup

Makeup

Makeup

Washington DC makeup artist Kiley Smith sitting in front of a professional high-CRI makeup light in her Fairfax Virginia studio

Read it!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I personally use in my kit. As a professional makeup artist, my goal is simple: help every client look and feel their absolute best. Whether you’re heading […]

Why I Use High-CRI Makeup Lighting on Every Client

When to book your makeup artist

Read it!

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

Makeup

Makeup

Read it!

The morning of your wedding sets the tone for the rest of your big day. While it’s important to avoid certain pitfalls, there are also key things you should do to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s a list of 5 do’s and don’ts for your wedding morning. 5 Things You Should Do: 1. Eat a […]

5 Do’s and Don’ts for Your Wedding Morning

Read it!

At first glance, the true cost of a natural makeup look may seem like it should be lower, as it appears simpler and more subtle. However, did you know that creating a flawless natural look takes professional expertise, top-tier products, and time to ensure the makeup looks seamless and radiant?  Here’s why achieving a natural […]

The True Cost of a Natural Makeup Look

Makeup

Bride-to-Be

Read it!

As a bridal makeup artist, I know how important every detail is on your wedding day. From the perfect lipstick shade to the bridal fragrance that lingers as you walk down the aisle, everything matters. In fact, many people don’t know that I am as passionate about makeup as I am about fragrances. Choosing the […]

The Perfect Bridal Fragrances for Your Big Day

View Services

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!