Makeup Artist Spotlight: Q&A with Coco Liu

For this week’s makeup artist spotlight, we’re featuring Coco Liu, a Chinese makeup artist based in New York City. By building trust and relationships with her clients, Coco guides them to enhance their natural beauty and match their unique style, based on their dress and individual personality.

Get to know Coco, a top New York City wedding makeup artist

Beginning her career in China, Coco specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and skincare. With over a decade of experience, she’s developed a distinctive style rooted in her passion for artistry and individuality.

Now based in New York City, Coco draws endless inspiration from the city’s diversity and creative energy. She believes every bride deserves a look that’s personal and true to who she is. In addition to her work in New York, Coco travels internationally for destination weddings.

Here are some of Coco’s stunning bridal looks we adore:

Q: How did you discover your passion for wedding makeup?

A: I attended a vocational high school in China, majoring in beauty, hairdressing, and image design. My passion for "beauty" and "creativity" started from there. Later, I chose to focus on bridal styling because it's a job that not only requires highly specialized skills but is also incredibly fulfilling: I get to be with the newlyweds during the most important and happiest moments of their lives. Bridal styling is more than just makeup or hairstyling; it's the art of "holistic image design." It blends aesthetics, emotion, and personal expression. I've loved art since childhood, so I truly enjoy this process of creating beauty and conveying happiness. I continuously refine my craft, so that every bride can showcase her most unique and authentic self.

Q: What do you love most about living and working in NYC?

A: New York is a city full of energy and diversity, a place with endless inspiration and possibilities. Different cultures, styles, and stories intertwine here, allowing me to learn something new every day. I find artistic nourishment in museums, dialogue with nature in Central Park, and inspirational conversations with fellow art lovers in galleries.

What I love most about New York is its inclusiveness and freedom. Whether it’s minimalist, vintage, classic, or avant-garde beauty, every style is appreciated and celebrated here. The city constantly fuels my creativity, keeps me open-minded and curious, and at the same time, keeps me true to my original aspirations as I pursue my career with an artisan's spirit.

Q: You started doing makeup at the age of 17, how has it changed since then?

A: That’s a fantastic question! Indeed, there have been significant changes! In the past, bridal makeup often leaned toward a “heavier, more glamorous” look. Nowadays, brides tend to prefer something more natural yet refined. They want a look that truly reflects their personality rather than simply following trends.

With constant innovation in cosmetic products and techniques, makeup has also become lighter, more luminous, and longer-lasting. I think the biggest change is that brides today have a much clearer vision of how they want to look. My role as a stylist is to use my expertise and artistic eye to help them present their best selves.

Q: We’re thrilled you connected with a bride through our directory and booked her wedding! How do you approach the trial to make sure it goes smoothly and leads to a successful booking?

A: I believe a trial session is not just about showcasing skills — it’s about building trust and understanding the bride’s personality and style.

Before the trial, I have an in-depth conversation with the bride: the wedding theme, gown style, typical makeup habits, and the vision for the bridal look. Then, I offer suggestions based on her facial features and overall look.

During the trial, I show each step of the makeup process, listen to feedback, and adjust details as needed until we are both satisfied. My goal is for a bride to look in the mirror and not just sees herself as "pretty", but thinks, “This is me — the most confident and radiant version of myself.” When a bride feels understood and respected, trust naturally develops.

Q: What's your top tip for helping brides feel confident and beautiful on their wedding day?

A: I believe emotional calmness is equally as important as professional technique. Brides are often nervous on their wedding day, so I see myself not just as a stylist but moreover, a gentle and supportive advocate.

When a bride feels relaxed, her genuine radiance naturally shines through.

Skills can make someone beautiful, but energy and atmosphere make her glow. True beauty isn’t something that’s just created with makeup. It’s the natural confidence and joy that radiates when one feels happy and blessed!

Answers have been lightly edited for clarity.

Book Coco for Your Wedding Makeup

We loved getting to know Coco and her approach to bridal beauty! If you’re interested in working with her for your wedding, you can find her contact info and Instagram here.