Today we’d like to introduce you to Zainab Ashraf.
Hi Zainab, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Ever since I was a teenager, I have always been into everything beauty related. I was the go to friend and person in my family for makeup. Any free time I had, I was watching makeup tutorials on YouTube. However, I never imagined myself making it my career.
5 years ago when my sister got married, I did my own makeup and her bridal makeup artist asked me if I wanted to join her team. At that time I had just had a baby and was working a corporate job in digital marketing, so I politely declined. But her offer, never left the back of my mind.
Fast forward to 2025, with the support of my family and friends I finally decided to pursue my passion and make it my career. I went in with zero expectations and took masterclasses in hair and makeup to sharpen my skills and learn from the best. I started by asking anyone and everyone to let me do their makeup and model for me. And now in 2026, my calendar for the first half of this year is fully booked. (Praise to god)
I absolutely love my job and making other women feel beautiful and confident. I cannot wait to see where this career will take me next. Godwilling.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Every bump in the road has been a major learning lesson. I’ve learned not to overbook or burn myself out. As that can lead to me not loving my job. I’ve also learned not to take on just any client but only the ones that align with my makeup style and aesthetic. That is the best way to ensure you love your work and so does the client.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a bridal hair and makeup artist. I also do non bridal work as well. If I could describe my makeup style in 3 words I would use: seamless, snatched, and ethereal. My signature glam is a mix of a soft glam base with more defined eyes. I’m most proud of my bridal work and helping them feel their most confident on one of the most special days of their lives. I feel what makes me a bit different is my approach to glamming. I bring in my expertise with color theory and technique to make sure each brides vision comes to life. I don’t like to just copy and paste a look; I’d much rather adjust it to each clients unique features so it suits them.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory was saving up my birthday money and spending it at target or Ulta to buy the latest makeup.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdC1nWRwo1-kJe8yc_Fmsz1NRAVk6DWDVOmkwRw7ZmwyY4N8w/viewform
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zsamakeupartistry
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zainabsashraf96
Image Credits
@picturesby.sh
