I derive inspiration from all over the world. Especially Europe.
I find dressing traditional brides to be effortless
Meet Jeni, the founder and creative force behind JeniMUA, a brand built on passion, precision, and the belief that every woman deserves to feel confident and beautiful. With over 14 years of experience as a professional makeup artist, Jeni has dedicated her career to perfecting the art of makeup and enhancing natural beauty.
Jeni’s approach is deeply personal, her mission is not just to apply makeup but to uplift confidence and bring out the best in every client. Known for her signature style of effortless, natural, and soft glam, she focuses on enhancing each client’s unique features while staying true to their individual style. At JeniMUA, it’s more than makeup, it’s about how you feel inside and out. Jeni believes that your bridal trial is essential, giving both artist and bride the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and create the perfect look. She takes the time to understand your preferences, go through your inspiration photos, and ensure your final bridal look feels both comfortable and authentic.
She’s been asked the questions we all want to ask and now she has given the answers. Take a look.
QWhat initially sparked your passion for makeup artistry, and how did that evolve into creating your own brand, JeniMUA?
Growing up, like most little girls, I had a passion for makeup. I would constantly experiment and play with a makeup kit. Then one day, when I was much older, I was at a wedding and observed a bride who looked amazing. I was very impressed by how well her makeup had been done. Her makeup artist had enhanced her natural beauty. This impressed me. That day was a turning point in my life. I decided that I was going to learn this wonderful form of art called ‘makeup’. The art of enhancing the beauty of a person’s face! From then on, I decided to observe, experiment and learn this art. That incident made me turn my passion into a profession!
QYou’ve spent over 14 years in the industry. How has your approach to makeup and client service changed or evolved over time?
I constantly observe new makeup trends, and I follow trends when needed. I look at every new style that is followed and adapt and change to suit the need and my bride’s requirement. In this ever-changing industry it is important to keep up and stay up to date in order for the JeniMUA brand to make an impact. I use the best makeup brands available. Most brides request these high-end brands by name. I believe my brides are well informed and have specific requirements. My experience and knowledge give them confidence as we plan that special day together. I derive inspiration from all over the world. Especially Europe. I find dressing traditional brides to be effortless. Over time I have learnt to constantly gain knowledge and apply this know-how to enhance the bride’s special day.
QWhat has been the most defining moment of your career so far?
Taking that very bold step to start my own business and venturing out as a businesswoman.
QHow do you balance current trends with timeless techniques when working with
your clients?
Brides and bridal trends are always timeless. For example, traditional Kandyan bridal attire is both traditional and timeless. I believe that a bride must always look like a bride, not a ramp model. This is the beautiful norm and has remained this way. I balance changing trends by keeping the bride’s attire and jewelry timeless while keeping the makeup and the look contemporary and modern.
Qan you share a particularly memorable experience, whether it was working with a client, doing bridal makeup or a behind the scenes story?
During the post-covid time, I had to dress four brides over the course of 8 hours! The weddings were taking place at four different hotels. And I was rushing from one to another changing masks as I went. I started the day dressing a western bride and this was followed by another morning bride who had to be dressed up as a traditional Kandyan bride. Then soon after I had to rush to attend to another western bride at noon and thereafter a Muslim bride. It was a very busy day and quite a challenge since it was post-covid and there was a lot of protocol to follow. It was quite a memorable day!
QWhat does beauty mean to you, and how do you strive to make your clients feel both beautiful and confident?
Beauty means natural beauty. I try to keep things simple and enhance my bride’s natural beauty at all times.
QMany clients describe you as both talented and deeply professional. What do you think sets JeniMUA apart from others in the industry?
My clients may feel this way because of the experience I have gained over the years and my desire to constantly update my professional knowledge and skills. Perhaps this is the reason they describe me in this manner.
QHow do you stay inspired and continue
honing your skills in such a fast paced ever changing field?
I self-inspire. It’s in me I believe. My passion for everything in this industry inspires me. I make it my business to know what’s happening out there. I fuel my passion. This industry has always been fast paced and constantly changing. And I love it.
QHave there been any challenges you’ve faced as a woman entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?
This journey is not a bed of roses. Everyone faces challenges. But I can face whatever challenge and come out of it victorious.
QWhat advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists looking to build their brand and make a lasting impact?
Be professional. Learn every day.
Jeni’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose, a story that proves success is born from both talent and tenacity. From a curious young girl experimenting with makeup to becoming the trusted name behind countless bridal transformations, her dedication to her craft and her clients shines through in every brushstroke. Through challenges and changes, Jeni has carved out a brand that speaks to beauty in its most authentic form, elevating confidence, celebrating individuality, and staying grounded in timeless elegance. She’s not only answered the questions we all wanted to ask, but she’s also shared a piece of her soul in doing so. This is more than a beauty story, it’s the inspiring journey of a woman who turned her passion into a powerful brand.
