What events and/or what inspired you to pursue a career in makeup?

I grew up in a small farm town. In the next town over, which was bigger, they had W Magazine at the grocery store. I was fascinated by W’s creative editorials, especially anything shot by Tim Walker, and I had to figure out how I could get a job doing something like that.

Has there been a key moment where things shifted for you and your career blossomed?

Some people have a breakthrough moment that they can point to, but for me my career has been brick by brick. That said, there have been moments where I've been able to recognize how far I've come. Shooting Lea Seydoux for the cover of Madame Figaro last year was one of those. Not only have I been a fan of Lea for a long time, but the team (photo, styling, hair) was also made up of people I really look up to, and it felt special to be included in that group of artists.

What’s been the easiest and hardest part about your industry? What do you now know that you wished you knew when you started?

The easiest part is that it's just makeup. Sometimes I can get wrapped up in high-stress situations on set, but then I remember that if a creative idea doesn't work out, I can always wash it off. The hardest part is carrying a 70-pound makeup bag around the city! Countless cabbies have asked me if my boyfriend is in my suitcase. They can't believe that the only thing in there is makeup. No one tells you about the schlepping!

What’s your process when creating a new look on a client?

I think it's important to be inspired by someone's natural beauty. One of the things I love about my job is that no one looks the same, so I always learn. I like to take my time to really look at their face and have it tell me what needs to happen.

What’s your beauty philosophy?

It should always be fun. If the makeup you're doing doesn't bring you confidence and joy, don't do it!

**Talk to me about Vanities, your new newsletter! What inspired you to start it and what will it cover?**

People ask me all the time what my favorite products are and how to use them. Shockingly, I never get tired of talking about makeup. I also recently had my first child and, on the recommendation of a friend, joined an online yoga/postpartum support group. I would have never thought to join something like that, but found it to be incredibly helpful and fulfilling. I want to bring a similar experience to the makeup world, and I hope my new newsletter VANITIES (vanities.substack.com) will be a fun way to connect with people and share everything I’ve learned at work. The first handful of posts are about my makeup process and how to upgrade your personal routine, and going forward I have all sorts of ideas for features on the latest trends and techniques, hero products, and beauty innovations. Additionally, every letter will have a guest who I think is really cool or who has informed my approach to beauty.

You have probably tested every product under the moon! So I’d love to know what are your holy grail top three makeup products and skincare at the moment?

Retrouvé Skin Brilliance Priming Pads: I use them once a week at night. They are truly magical. I wake up with clearer, brighter, fresh-baby skin.

Chantecaille Liquid Lumière Highlighter in Sheen: It's a light gel highlighter that you can use all over your face, and apply with your fingers. It's a perfect glow and isn't fussy.

Charlotte Tilbury Color Chameleon: I love the versatility of this pencil—you can draw it on and smudge for a diffused eyeshadow look, or you can apply more precisely for the easiest eyeliner you’ve ever worn.

Favorite scent...

An Enfleurage custom blend from their spot in the West Village. It’s an essential oil shop where they know and have everything. My go-to is a mix of white frankincense and Atlas cedar. It’s so grounding and unexpected. I have it with me always. If you go to Enfleurage, they will help you create a custom blend that’s perfect for you.

Favorite red lip color...

Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in Paradoxale. I love this formula because it lasts all day and is really buildable. This particular color is special and interesting, even mysterious. It's red, it's plum, it's fuscia... it has a magical shifting ability so you can't quite nail it down, but that's what's cool about it. She's a mysterious lady. And there's always something powerful about a Chanel red.

Favorite face oil...

French Farmacie Sérum Radiant. Smells amazing, hydrating, and brightening, and it's so clean you can even put it on your lips.

Favorite under-the-radar product…

Lilfox Pink Celestial Salt Soak. I’ve recently become very into more elaborate bath rituals. This soak is renewing for the senses and the soul. It smells incredible and comes with a QR code for a curated playlist and yoga nidra. Most relaxing pastime ever.

Beauty is…

All around you!

Beauty Expert Jessi Butterfield Talks About Her Career Evolution, Her Must-Have Products, and Her Newsletter 'Vanities'