What would some women do without that indispensable, lifesaving, beautifying invention - make-up? Louise Pace Gouder is an up and happening make-up artist whose time is divided between working as a beauty consultant for Revlon and applying make-up for weddings, photoshoots and TV shows. Miriam Galea talks to her about the latest trends in make-up, useful beauty tips and her passionate career.

How long have you been working as a make-up artist?

Professionally, since 2003.

Is this your full-time occupation? If not, what else do you do?

I joined Charles de Giorgio Ltd in 1999 and still work as a beauty consultant for the Revlon brand. Each year I attend the Train the Trainer course organised by Revlon UK and I received a diploma in this field. This helps me to keep abreast with new product development and selling techniques, and enables me to train sales staff locally. In my career as a make-up artist I also apply make-up for weddings, fashion shows, photo shoots, theatre, TV and filming.

Do you have any other hobbies?

Mostly I enjoy drawing, going for walks with my family and surfing the net for more information related to fashion and beauty.

How did you first become interested in make-up?

At a very early age, I had an eye for combining colours and experimenting with make-up, using my wooden and plastic dolls as models. Way back in 1986, I took my first beauty course and continued studying to a higher level in make-up. In 1993 I had another opportunity to work as a beauty therapist in a cosmetic outlet in Valletta. Later on, I attended a nail extension course and a couple of years ago I decided to take it to another level and study make up as a professional.

Is it something you always wanted to do?

Yes it has always been my dream, and now I wish to go a step further and study intensive prosthetics.

What is so fascinating about make-up? Why is it important?

With make-up, your imagination becomes reality. I have a passion for my work; I can experiment and play with make-up as it’s such fun!

What do you like in this job?

I feel it’s really exciting working in the cosmetic industry, I am constantly reviewing new products to keep up with trends in the art of applying cosmetics. Also, the fact that I am enhancing beauty in others and making people look and feel good gives me great satisfaction. I am a firm believer in building a relationship with my clients as this makes them feel very much at ease when they require advice and come back for beauty tips. My clients become my friends!

What is most important when applying make-up?

For me, it is being acquainted with your tools, so that they will give you the best results. One vital tip is “less is more!”

What is a no-no in make-up?

A ‘no-no’ may imply various methods and techniques which have changed with time. Nowadays, the trend is to wear natural make-up for the daytime, whereas in the past heavier make-up was applied throughout the day.

What is the most important quality in a good make-up artist?

Precision, passion, creativity and a sense of colour combination.

What is the favourite make-up job you ever had?

One particular event which was quite unforgettable was a photo shoot for a Swedish magazine. I had to use all my skills since the model was not a professional one and she was very carefree about her appearance. However, the end result was amazing! It truly was a ‘before and after’ transition.

There are different styles of make-up. Is there any style that you prefer?

My preference is the ‘party look’ for evening wear. With this look I can be more creative with the eyes, using more luminous make-up and stronger shades.

Tell us about the latest trend in make-up.

The most fashionable trend at the moment is called Bedroom Eyes. This new concept of smokey make-up which one blends around the eyes is very sexy and effective.

Future projects?

You are always inspired to do more, and I look forward to such opportunities whether it’s working for Revlon or freelance.