Meera Al Hammadi always had a flair for colours. With a touch of powder here and a dab of colour there, the 33-year-old Emirati from Abu Dhabi has been bringing out the best in women’s faces since she was 12.
“I love to make someone look and feel beautiful,” she says.
Starting with neighbours and family, Al Hammadi the make-up artist grew into a household name.
Having studied business administration, Al Hammadi has 55,000 followers on Instagram (@Meera_Artist), where she posts some of her work and the latest make-up trends.
“I cater to each person’s face,” she says. “Sometimes, when someone brings me a photo of a model or celebrity with particular make-up, I tell them if it will work on them or not, and then show them a nicer way of bringing out their best features.”
From traditional make-up, which includes henna designs, to modern make-up trends, Al Hammadi does it all. Recently, she has noticed that people prefer the “nude natural look”.
“It is nice when the make-up is delicate and light, instead of heavy with many layers. It leaves one looking more youthful.”
Self-taught, she learnt by trial and error, watching make-up artists work on YouTube and TV programmes. She perfected her own style and often gets inspiration from nature.
“There is so much beauty in nature. The vibrant colours in flowers, and how they mix together, are all very inspirational and give me ideas,” she explains.
Initially, her family wasn’t sure about her career, but after seeing the results, especially happy brides, they changed their minds.
“It is all about the reaction. If what I do makes someone happy, then I am happy.”
My favourite pastime
Reading novels and relaxing in a garden.
My favourite brands
Chanel make-up. They always have something unique. I also like to spend time at Sephora, and explore the limited editions they bring in.
My favourite music
Khaleeji music, such as songs by the Emirati singer Hussain Al Jasmi. He has a unique voice.
My favourite cartoons
The old Japanese cartoons that were dubbed into Arabic here, such as Sally and Georgie! We grew up on them.
My favourite actress
I like Angelina Jolie. I especially like her make-up, which is always light and brings out the best in her face.
My favourite book
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, a business and self-help book written by Stephen R Covey. It really helps you change how you see yourself.
My favourite perfume
Coco Chanel. The black one.
My favourite car
The Audi Q7.
My favourite dishes
I have trouble with food: I love it too much. I love pasta with pink sauce as well as chocolate fondues.
My dream job
I am doing my dream job.
My dream destination
I dream to visit the United States – New York. I like crowded, shopping places.
My advice to young Emiratis
When you want to do something unconventional, but you love it, go for it.
rghazal@thenational.ae