The work of Make-up artist Erica Owusu can be described as a timeless and natural glam look that enhances the beauty of each person she touches. Led by her story and strong passion for work, the artist takes time to hone her already exceptional skills with trends, industry knowledge and desire to deliver the best.

Spark in conversation with She Touch Trends CEO and Creative director. Full interview below

All images courtesy of She Touch Trends

Spark: Erica, can you please tell us more about yourself? 

Sure, I am Erica Owusu. Founder and creative director at She Touch Trends. My journey in the beauty industry commenced 4 years ago while pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies (Journalism) from The Ghana Institute Of Journalism, where I cultivated my passion for makeup

Spark: But why make up?  What drew you to it?

Make-up used to be my thing even in school – as far back in SHS. I loved styling myself with the basic things I had but that interest developed better while I was in university. At the time, I wasn’t perfect, but I still loved applying my own make-up and that of my friends. That drove me to pay for a short practice session with a make-up artist I knew from church, and later buying and selling make-up products I got from Makola. I’d say that started it all.

Spark: As a make-up artist, has that shaped how you see beauty in general?

I think make-up enhances beauty. There is this level of confidence that comes with a well done make-up. But that’s not to say, not wearing make-up takes away from your beauty. It’s just a means to enhance what you already have. 

Spark: In your opinion, what makes a good make-up artist?

One thing every make-up artist should know is, make-up is a trend so you keep upgrading. The way we used to do make-up some years back has changed from what we do now. No matter how good you are, you still have alot to learn. Just like any other profession, you need to know what you are about. 

For me, I keep taking online classes, and upgrading myself and learning about products. Especially products because, after mastering the skill, knowing the right products to use, improves your work as a make-up artist. 

Spark: Seems you’ve covered my question on how you keep up with trends in the industry. Let’s talk about your brand now – What do you offer as a make-up brand? 

At She Touch Trends we offer more bridal make-up than any other thing. And sometimes home service for wedding guests. The main focus is on the bridal make-up looks, but I do service people for other occasions – prom nights, birthday parties, baby christening etc. Also, I am open to doing movie and music sets when the opportunity comes.

Spark: By the way your Instagram Portfolio is very impressive. I like that most of the looks are very natural

Thank you

Spark: As a business owner, what has been your most exciting experience running She Touch Trends?

Haha! Let’s start with the exciting part – the excitement that comes after working on a bride. When I see my work, my God! I get so much fulfilment. I think it’s because of how I started and how far I have come.  I have so much joy when I work on a bride and they love my work. And so far by God’s grace, no one has hated their make-up looks. Also, seeing the confidence they have after getting their dream look and feeling good about themselves on their big day makes it exciting.

Another thing I’ll add is the fact that my business has grown and my craft has as well. Everyone can attest to that. With my business operations and how I handled things back then and now has really improved. It just keeps getting better. 

Spark: Any challenges?

Okay, I think from the beginning, I wasn’t able to charge much since I was now starting out. And when it came to travel booking and accommodation, the experiences were not too great, but I think it’s better now, much more presentable.

Another challenge I have is working alone. I have students I train though but that one person whose work will get to my standard. So we become a team, working on brides and getting more bookings at the same time. Not having a  shop is challenging, now I make due with my home studio for client walk-ins sometimes. 

Spark: Are there any big name brands you want to work for or collaborate with?

I’m really looking forward to working with big brands because I believe that it pushes you and gives you the exposure you need to grow. I really love Nars products, and use more of it in my work and Danessa Myricks. Also I am looking forward to more collaborations with big hair stylists, photographers and more. My dreams are too big but with God, we will get there.

Spark: Definitely! To wrap this up let’s have some fun questions – so what are your favourite make-up products to use?

This question will be tough because I have alot of favourites. I use multiple products for different things. But to mention a few, I love Nars, especially their foundation. I love Fenty powders too, Charlotte Tilbury setting spray and Danessa Myricks products. 

Also, a Ghanaian owned company called Annie’s Beauty, I love their eyeshadow and blush palette and a few Nigerian brands as well. 

Spark: What will we find Erica doing for fun, if she’s not doing any Make-up?

If I’m doing any makeup, I most likely be in my room or working on my other gig – hair styling. But these days, I am getting addicted to watching more movies. 

Although most of my time is spent on work, or learning about my field – products and ways to improve. 

Spark: Thank you so much Erica. It was so lovely talking to you – I enjoyed every bit of our conversation

I enjoyed talking to you too. Thank so much

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