Meet Casey Cheek: Hair and Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Casey Cheek and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Casey, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work life balance is the toughest subject for me regarding my career. In today’s world everything is so immediate. In the beginning of my career I only had to think of myself and the choices I made were always for the betterment of my career. Then I started a family and things changed. I had to split my time between work and family. It is sometimes difficult to be present in either situation because I feel like I’m shorting one or the other. When a client reaches out to me they expect a response almost immediately. There are many times when this is possible. However when I am with my family and trying to be present with them , it’s a tough choice as to whether I should keep an eye on my phone or email or just be present in the moment. There have been moments when I’ve missed an opportunity because I didn’t answer immediately but also there are times I have missed being with my husband and children because of work. I try hard to balance the two and I realize that this career will only last so long but family is forever. I don’t want to regret all the time I spent working or chasing work and not being with my family. I struggle because this field is so competitive. You really have to be on top of it at all times. Sometimes I have to make the hard choice to make sure work is my first priority and I wonder if that is the right choice. 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a makeup artist and hairstylist that has been in the business for 27 years. I attended cosmetology school and two makeup schools specializing in film, television and editorial. I learned special fx and I’m equipped to work on any set. I am part of the NYC union as well as The LA union as a makeup artist. It’s been a tough road learning how to navigate this industry. There are so many elements that can make or break you. There is the technical part of it where you have to be great at what you do but there is also the social aspect. Getting along with your coworkers and learning how to read a room when you walk in are all important as well. I feel like I am a chameleon of sorts. When I’m on a job I’m pretty good at picking up the vibe and rolling with it. Whether it’s calm and quiet or maybe it’s a party atmosphere, I can do either and get the job done. I love what I do and work really hard at it. But I also have fun while I’m working.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love anything outdoors. I would go to visit Vizcaya for the landscape and history. Wynwood is among my favorite places to go to get inspiration. Everywhere you look there is something different and thought provoking. To do outdoor activities, I love Crandon Park. It’s beautiful over there. One of my favorite places to eat is Barton G. Their desserts are freaking amazing.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people that I have to thank for helping me along with my career. Family and friends , coworkers , mentors. One in particular comes to mind. When I first moved to Florida I met with Timothy Priano. He was honest and open minded and told me how to survive in Florida as a working artist. He and his agency gave me some great jobs that propelled me to the next level.

Website: www.caseycheek.com
Instagram: @caseycheekmakeup
Linkedin: Casey Cheek
Facebook: Casey Cheek Makeup and Hair

Image Credits
Photo of Valery Ortiz (brunette) Sarah Krick photographer Giuliana photo is a BTS by me Kristen Chenoweth- photographer is Bryan Kasm Bianca Baldi photo is from Getty Images Fantastics photo is photographer Scott Teitler