Get to know Vegas’ top makeup artists
January 29, 2009 - 10:00 pm
Meet five women who earn a living making Las Vegas beautiful. Each is hailed by the entertainment industry as the creme de la creme in the art of makeup. Whether it's commercial work, runway, editorial or the red carpet, these are the women who make us stop and stare. Take a look at what makes each of them stand out from the competition and scope out the life-changing beauty products that have earned their loyalty over the years.
Melissa Conner
Celebrity resume: Jerry Seinfeld, Alicia Keys and Adriana Lima
Proudest accomplishment: "Going to George Clooney's house last year to do hair and makeup for Sarah Larson (his then girlfriend) for the Academy Awards."
Life-changing product: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner: "When it says longwear it means it. You can swim in the ocean, watch 'Terms of Endearment' and take a two-hour nap and it stays put."
Props: "I love working with Melissa because of her dedication to her work. She brings an added level of creativity to the set and she has a wacky and wicked sense of humor." -- Jerry Metellus, local fashion photographer
Jenn Karsten (of MAC)
Celebrity resume: Fergie, Pink and Kevin Bacon
Proudest accomplishment: A special invitation from Cirque du Soleil in Rome. "It was a breathtaking and awe-inspiring experience that I feel blessed to have been a part of."
Life-changing product: Creme de la Mer: "The technology and ingredients are incredible. ... After using it for just a short time, I have noticed a visible result in the luminosity and hydration of my skin that I have never found in any other product."
Props: "She's the one who will figure it out and make it work. Some of the stuff she can come up with is just amazing." -- Jason Bennett, agency director, Envy Model & Talent, Vegas and L.A.
Barbra Jo Batterman
Celebrity resume: Tom Hanks, Steffi Graf and Kelly Clarkson
Proudest accomplishment: "How many of us go to work each day and make a living out of something we are truly passionate about? My proudest accomplishment is that I do just that and I never take it for granted."
Life-changing product: Guerlain Kiss Kiss Extreme #120: "It's creamy and extra long wear. ... You can put on the right shade of lipstick and instantly turn from a girl to a woman."
Props: "She is an icon in Vegas. She's really good at making people feel at ease -- whether it's an executive or a model just starting out. That's a talent." -- Christie Moeller, local fashion stylist
Zee Clemente
Celebrity resume: Nicole Richie, Vince Vaughn and Flavor Flav
Proudest accomplishment: "I must admit one of my favorites, alongside working with our local talent, is the Jerry Lewis Telethon. It holds a very special place in my heart; a true accomplishment."
Life-changing product: Sugar Tropic Tan Blush/Bronzer Duo: "This product will change your life. It's by far the most perfect bronzer. Not too orange, not too muddy, not too shimmery; just right."
Props: "She always makes sure she understands the vision before the project starts. Zee is super creative, flexible and her makeup always stands out." -- Kerry Grant, senior bookings agent, Best Agency
Mary Rockwood-Crabtree
Celebrity resume: Jude Law, Molly Sims and David Duchovny
Proudest accomplishment: "I am always proud to work with local Las Vegas crews and artists."
Life-changing product: Dior eye shadows. "I love them because the colors are beautiful, the pigment is perfect and the application is mess-free."
Props: "Mary is definitely one of my all-time favorites. Her attention to detail is great and everything is always so soft and beautiful." -- Amber Nichole, local fashion model