Over a year ago now, I received a message that seemed pretty casual at first. Producers from  Channel 5 reached out to ask if I wanted to take part in a fun project. They didn’t give away much just that it would involve makeup, something creative, and that they liked my work. So I sent over my portfolio, agreed to the filming date they gave me, and thought, “Why not? Sounds exciting!”

I had no idea what I was actually walking into.

When I arrived on set, I stepped into a room full of cameras, lights, people… and zero context. I assumed it would just be a creative MUA day: turn up, do our thing, and head home. But the room was packed, and there was an energy I couldn’t quite put my finger on. Still, I did what makeup artists do best focused, tuned in, and got to work.

We were each given a theme to inspire our look. I went for polished, radiant skin, warm definition, and a soft glam finish with luxe detailing. It was one of those looks where everything just flowed. And then, the competition was over.

I packed up, left the studio, and thought that was it.

Then I got the call.

A producer rang me after the shoot and said, “So… there was someone faking it.” One of the contestants I’d just worked beside had never picked up a brush professionally in their life they had faked being a makeup artist the whole time. And to top it off? Dominic Skinner had been secretly watching everything from another room, tracking every move we made. The twist was wild. I was stunned. We had unknowingly taken part in a high-stakes MUA experiment and somehow, I’d kept my cool the whole time.

Months passed and life moved on… until a few weeks before the air date, when reality kicked in. I got a call  from the team they told me the show was about to go live in a few weeks. I was hit with a mix of excitement and nerves. I hadn’t seen any edits, had no clue how it would all look on screen. But one thing lifted my spirits instantly  a surprise package from Dominic Skinner himself which had his amazing book inside and a bunch of MAC products. A thoughtful gift that reminded me how meaningful and magical this industry can truly be.

When the episode finally aired, I sat in front of the TV in my room nervous, excited, and definitely holding my breath as it still didn’t feel real that myself AND my work was about to show on TV eeeek. During the last 10 minutes of the show was where I had screen time and the competition was showing. Then I heard the judges’ feedback. (leading into this moment I was so nervous as I had no clue what they were going to say about my work) Here came the words…

“Beautiful.”

“Highly skilled Artist.”

“Amazing skin.”

They were talking about my work.

I smiled like a little girl whose dreams had just shown up in real life. It was a moment of pride I’ll never forget never in a million years did I think my work would appear on TV let alone myself! Once I posted the show and shared it on my stories, the support I received was overwhelming. Clients, friends, even people I didn’t know reached out with love and kind words. The outpouring meant everything to me and my heart was so full.

And just when I thought it couldn’t get any cooler…

A few days later, I noticed the show had popped up on Channel 4’s Celebrity Gogglebox.

While my full look wasn’t featured, there was a quick snippet of me on screen and honestly, just seeing the episode discussed and reacted to by celebrities on another major network was such a surreal and exciting moment. It reminded me of how far this journey had reached and how powerful these creative opportunities can be when shared with a wider audience.

From the first mysterious email to the glowing reviews and surprise TV cameos, this experience was a whirlwind of nerves, pride, and gratitude. The team at Channel 5 were incredible from beginning to end, supporting us through it all with professionalism and care.

This reminded me why I love what I do. Makeup is more than just beauty it’s creativity, confidence, and connection. And whether I know I’m being judged or not, I’ll always show up with my kit, my passion, and my WHOLE heart.

Be Bold. Be Brave. Be Free. Be You.

Let’s keep making even more magic and painting even more unforgettable faces.