Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Uzo.
Hi Nicole, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Rutier initially began as a series of favors. In high school, I was on the drill team and every Friday evening we’d have to get dressed with flamboyant makeup for game day. Weekly, some of my friends would notice my eye shadow or makeup and ask for tips, favors or help here and there. I would get so anxious because I didn’t want to mess up anyone’s face, so I literally asked God to guide my hands… And He did. This is where my journey began. Prior to that, I was not much of a “makeup enthusiast”, but shortly after I began my freshman year of college, I noticed the same trends and favors continued. Slowly, I began to fall in love with the art; with evening out skin tones, changing the appearance of bone structures, transforming people, and most importantly, the moment of truth; the gasp, followed by a wide smile they let out as I handed them the mirror.
I noticed I’d feel super warm and flustered inside when I did makeup, sort of how you feel when you have a crush or you’re on a first date (no joke). And from then, I knew makeup artistry was something I wanted to do forever; not necessarily as a source of income, but as a genuinely fulfilling hobby and passion.
Now, several years later, I still get those butterflies each and every time I enhance a face… Just like it’s the first time. I’ve been able to expand into creative directing, weddings, magazine publications and more creative makeup outlets.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’d say it has been a fairly smooth road. Primarily because I didn’t set any “goals” or expectations. I just knew it was something I loved and wanted to do, whether I got paid or not. So to me, I’ve just been having fun for the past few years doing something I love, learning, growing and earning in the process. Along the way, there were a few struggles, however. When I’d recently graduated from university and moved back to Texas, I thought since the market was bigger, it would be smooth sailing from there. I hadn’t realized that being on a college campus gave me a huge advantage in terms of my niche and marketing/publicity. So that was a bit tough dealing with the difference in competition and demand.
At one point, I was almost ready to let go of the art as a whole, but a friend of mine, Luchi (CEO of LuchLuxe), would continually bring gigs and creative opportunities my way. I know in my heart it was by the leading of the Holy Spirit, because over time these rekindled my love for makeup.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
“Redefining Art, One face at a Time.” This is what Rutier is known for. To me, makeup should make you feel. You should feel beautiful and confident, but also emotional, joyful, inspired.
For this reason, I specialize in customization. I don’t believe every face will require the same application style or technique. So, although fluffy brows may be in trend, or “clean”/box brows may be preferred, it’s always ultimately about what compliments the facial structure in the best way. I’m always eager to try new things or step outside my comfort zone, even if it doesn’t look as good as I’d envisioned.
What makes you happy?
Honestly, more than anything, my joy comes from my knowledge of God. When I learn and ponder on His love for me, the more I love myself, the more confident I am and the happier I am. Truly, joy comes from within. I’ve found that no matter what I’m going through, or seeing, the Spirit of God in me is consistently reminding me of how whole, complete, perfect in Him I am. So, I’ve gotten to a place where little perturbs me and everyday, I am happy. I find joy in my hobbies, work, friends, family, service to God, and in my life. I’m happy to see my clients, collaborators and others happy as well. The greatest thing for me is that I maintain a constant state of gratitude, I know how far Jesus has brought me and refuse to recognize anything else.
Contact Info:
- Email: RutierBeauty@gmail.com
- Website: https://rutier.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rutierbeauty/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rutierbeauty/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NicoleUzo
Image Credits:
Sherry’s Images
Riot Muse
Oluchi Ebere
Tarf Photography
