Popular celebrity make-up artist, Banke Meshida, also known as BM Pro, opens up about her career and why she stopped making up for the dead which according to her is very lucrative but emotionally draining.
When asked if there is any type of make-up she will not do, Banke said;
I’ve been called occasionally to do make-up for dead people but I declined. I didn’t like the first experience I had. It’s such a sorrowful space to be in and I couldn’t deal with it. It left such a bad taste. I found it emotionally draining and made up my mind that I wouldn’t do it again. It’s a completely different skill set because one is working on skin that is not living; the colour and shading would different. However, it is a very lucrative aspect of make-up artistry because not many people possess the skill. I do every other thing except making up for the dead.
Other excerpts from the interview:
What is your educational qualification and how did you start Banke Meshida Professional (BM Pro)
I studied English at the University of Lagos. So, I had a lot of time to read, broaden my mind and expand my horizon in so many areas.
While in school, I used to do my make-up myself. I would make up in the morning and spend about two hours just playing around with cosmetics. Sometimes, I would even be late to class. However, people always noticed that I had good make-up on and they usually asked me questions.
Then, I had a roommate whose sister was getting married at a time and she asked me to do the bride’s make-up and I excitedly agreed. After the wedding, there were a lot of photographs and good reviews (of my work) afterwards. Since then, it has been from one referral to the other. Basically, make-up was a hobby that has now become what I do for a living.
Do you personally do make-up for all your prominent clients?
I have trusted hands. If I am unable to be physically present, my clients are happy to go with my recommendations. I have been able to replicate myself in my staff and it’s such a blessing, which is why I want to do more for my team. I hear that some people hog premium clients to themselves but what if the person is not able to be there, would the customer have to cancel the appointment? I have been blessed to work with upstanding people that have integrity. For the ones who go beyond my back to lure my customers, I have come to accept that (it happens) and will not chase them.
Do you want any of your children to toe your path?
Of course, I’ll like that. In our parents’ era, they all wanted their children to be lawyers and doctors but see what played out. Yes, I’ll love my kids to toe my line but I’ll also respect their choices. Thankfully, my kids love make-up.
How do you relax?
When I’m not working, I either watch movies, have a massage or sit down doing absolutely nothing. I also connect with my fans on Instagram.
Do you cook?
I love cooking but I don’t like clearing the dishes. These days, I have someone who cooks (for me) and I really like the taste. When I cook, it’s superb and my kids love it.
Source: Within Nigeria
