A Glimpse Into the Typical Workweek of Meghan Markle’s Makeup Artist: Understanding the Journey Behind Glamour on the Duchess’s Special Day
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As the saying goes: one achieves true comprehension only after experiencing life from another’s perspective, especially if that perspective involves a royal wedding day. (Or something along those lines.)
The public has dubbed this phenomenon the Meghan Markle Effect — and even her beauty team isn’t left untouched. Ever since it became known that Markle’s long-time friend and makeup artist Daniel Martin was responsible for her wedding glam in May, his calendar has been overwhelmed with appointments.
“If I’m going to keep helping others, I’ve realized it’s crucial to prioritize my own well-being too.”
“Thanks to the worldwide attention I’ve received, I’m now engaged in more collaborations beyond just beauty,” Martin explains. This surge of visibility translates into a myriad of partnerships, interviews, events, celebrity jobs, and yes, an increase in frequent flyer miles. It’s exhilarating, naturally, but it’s not always a cakewalk: “[2020] served as a significant transition for me both in my career and personal life, and ultimately, if I’m going to continue to support others, I must also commit to self-care.”
Next, Martin reveals what his workdays entail. Let’s just put it this way, his hours aren’t your standard 9-to-5, and his footwear is a touch more majestic.
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Day 1
“New York Fashion Week has just concluded, and I’m celebrating with good friends Serge Normant and Francesco Clark,” shares Martin. Normant was also part of the royal wedding glam team, taking charge of Meghan Markle’s hairstyle, while Clark is the innovative mind behind Clark’s Botanicals. “Earlier, I hosted a Backstage Pop-Up with Dior at the Oculus World Trade Center where I offered makeup tips and complimentary applications.”
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Day 2
“Even though I’m busy hosting a Dior Beauty event tonight, I made sure to pause and vote,” Martin notes. “The event turned out to be a hit with my Dior ladies, and my close friend Veronica Webb and her daughters dropped by to show their support. I cherish my New York family.”
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Day 3
“By 9 a.m., I’m on my way to assist my friend Judy Greer, who’s embarking on a press tour for her directorial debut, ‘A Happening of Monumental Proportions.’ Before Judy’s Today show slot, hairstylist Anthony Campbell and I make a few finishing touches.”
Martin’s setup backstage for Greer included the Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer ($54), Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation ($43), Beautyblender Pure ($20), Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder ($43), and Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer ($33).
But day three wasn’t over yet. “Before I connect with my Dior Beauty team to strategize for the upcoming Emmy weekend and Paris Fashion Week, I swing by the SNL studio for a brief tour,” Martin shares. “After concluding with Judy at 5 p.m., I’ll be heading to the airport for my flight to LA for the Emmys.”
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Day 4
“My best friend for 25 years, Ray, has come to visit for the weekend,” Martin mentions. “He’s making his inaugural trip to Los Angeles, so we explored Rodeo Drive. Being a huge Wonder Woman enthusiast, we also searched for Lynda Carter’s star on the Walk of Fame.”
Afterwards, it was back to business. “With the Emmys approaching, we’re throwing a celebration for Elisabeth Moss’s ‘LA Confidential’ cover shoot, accompanied by custom crafted ‘Handmaid’s Tale’ cocktails.”
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Day 5
“Emmy day has finally arrived, beginning with a lengthy process of preparations. We’re finalizing the looks for Lizzie before she steps onto the red carpet,” Martin states. “Now, I’m off to co-host an Emmy red carpet viewing celebration with Instagram at Sunset Towers. It’s so wonderful to see so many friends gathered, supporting each other and celebrating together.”
Kelsey Castañon (she/her) is an ASME Award-nominated writer, editor, and content strategist. With ample experience, she can confidently say it’s time for retinol prescriptions. Currently, she serves as the senior content director at PS, overseeing the Beauty, Health, Fitness, and Balance sections while stockpiling (and reporting on) everything from skincare to wine.
