LYDIA JANKA: THE MAKEUP ARTIST BRIDES WHISPER ABOUT IN THE TWIN CITIES - VORAKA

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN VORAKA

Article Published on 2 May 2025 by Imani Belle | www.vorakamag.com

Lydia has had a passion for the beauty industry for as long as she can remember. Her journey began in childhood through her involvement in musical theater, where she was first introduced to the world of stage makeup. That early exposure sparked a love for artistry, self-expression, and transformation interests that only deepened with time. Throughout college, Lydia continued to refine her skills, practicing on friends and family at every opportunity.

LYDIA JANKA

The peak of the YouTube beauty boom in 2016 became a pivotal moment in her education. Lydia immersed herself in tutorials, product reviews, and application techniques, gaining both technical knowledge and creative inspiration. Her true breakthrough came when a close friend asked her to do makeup for her wedding and bridal party. That experience ignited a wave of word-of-mouth referrals that eventually grew into a steady business. She launched her Instagram account shortly after and has since cultivated a loyal following in the Twin Cities as a trusted bridal makeup artist.

MAKEUP BY LYDIA JANKA

Today, Lydia works both independently and as a contract artist with Joy Beauty Company. Her specialty lies in natural and soft glam looks that enhance her clients’ features without masking them. She believes makeup should celebrate the unique beauty God gave each person. Her clients often seek a look that feels like the best version of themselves, elegant, timeless, and polished, and Lydia consistently delivers just that.

MAKEUP BY LYDIA JANKA

Her training with Joy Beauty Company also introduced her to airbrush foundation, which has become her preferred method for brides and bridal parties. Its buildable coverage and long-lasting wear make it ideal for those once-in-a-lifetime moments.

MAKEUP BY LYDIA JANKA

With a heart for service and a gift for artistry, Lydia is passionate about helping her clients feel confident, radiant, and truly themselves on their most special days. With a brush in hand and a heart for service, she’s built a name for herself in the Twin Cities as a go-to bridal artist. Her style blends soft glam with a natural touch, always honoring the unique beauty of each client.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH LYDIA JANKA

What first drew you to makeup, and how did your background in musical theater influence your approach?

When I was in 8th grade, I was in the Oklahoma Jr. production at my school, and I loved seeing how makeup could make a kid look like an older Aunt Eller. I loved seeing in action how makeup can bring out your features through the harsh stage lights, and how it can transform your face into the character you needed to portray. As I continued learning about makeup, I learned how stage makeup and bridal makeup have many similarities- you’ll need more layers than you think you do to make it last throughout the hot, sweat, and tears. Bridal makeup needs to both last all day and it needs to photograph well. Some of the skills I learned through musical theater have carried over into bridal makeup as well!

How did the 2016 YouTube makeup era shape your skills and knowledge?

I watched and followed so many wonderful YouTube Influencers throughout the years. The majority of the knowledge I gained from these people was product knowledge. As a poor college student in 2016, I made sure I watched every review and every wear test before purchasing a product to use. I had to be very selective of what products I purchased, so seeing so many different skin types and skin colors on YouTube helped me select products that would work best for multiple people. 

Can you tell us about the moment you realized you wanted to pursue makeup professionally? 

I knew I wanted a career in bridal makeup when I received my first proposal for a wedding party. My friend in college was getting married, and she asked if I could do her whole wedding party too. Once I said yes, I dove deep into what it took to do makeup on all kinds of skin tones, shapes, and textures. I learned what it took to be sanitary and professional. This is when I started sharing my work on my Instagram page, and I started creating more content, leading to where I am now!

What do you love most about working in bridal makeup? 

I love working in bridal makeup specifically, because every wedding morning is so special and simply put, fun. Marriage is such a wonderful and beautiful covenant, and I love being a part of such a special day!

Why do you prefer an airbrush foundation for bridal clients, and what makes it stand out? 

I love working with airbrush foundation because it is so versatile. It is long-lasting, doesn’t feel heavy or cakey, and works great with all skin textures. My clients love the way it looks and feels, and I can always get the desired finish by using different primers and setting powders!

How would you describe your signature makeup style?

Bridal Makeup, in particular, is my favorite style because it’s not usually trendy or bold. My bridal style is a “you but enhanced” look. I always want my brides to feel like themselves and enhance the strong features they already have. 

What are some of the most common requests from brides, and how do you tailor each look to the individual?

My most common request for brides is to have a classic natural look and to make their eyes pop. I always ask about their current makeup routine and what they usually wear when they go out or get dressed up. I always want to gauge how comfortable they are with makeup before jumping in. I show them what I’m doing and what it looks like throughout the bridal trial process, so they can adjust and work with me to make their bridal dream makeup! 

How has working with Joy Beauty Company influenced your artistry?

Anna Jorgenson, the founder of Joy Beauty Company, is such an inspiration and role model for me! She has helped me grow my business with such kindness and grace. She is the one who taught me how to use airbrush makeup! If I have questions about business or how to handle situations, she is always there to help. As an associate artist of the company, she is still extremely supportive of me growing my individual business. That kindness and belief are what make such a great leader!

What challenges have you faced as an independent makeup artist, and how have you navigated them? 

My challenges have been finding the balance between motherhood and work. I had two beautiful boys back to back, so managing my business and also raising two boys has been tricky, navigating where I spend my time and energy! My husband, family, and friends have been a huge support in watching the boys when I have weddings and bridal trials. I am extremely blessed to have a job that allows me to stay home with my sons during the week, and work weddings on the weekends!