If you didn’t already know, I just completed a year of not buying a single makeup product in 2020. You can read all about my #nobuy journey here. One of the first products I purchased in 2021 was the Blighlighter by celebrity makeup artist, Jamie Greenberg. Her clients include Kaley Cuoco and Jessica Alba, so she’s legit. Not only is she an amazingly talented makeup artist, but she’s just so sweet and down to earth.

When asked if I wanted to chat with her about her makeup line and the launch of the new addition to the Blighlighter family, the Coral One, I couldn’t say yes fast enough. Talking to Greenberg felt like I was hanging out with one of my girlfriends and I felt like we could keep talking for hours. I asked her so many questions about her life, career, her favorite Peloton instructor, and more. Here’s what she had to say:

Getting her start in the industry:

Greenberg said that while living and working in New York, nothing was really exciting her. She decided to make a transition and started working at Ulta and loved it. She moved to Los Angeles and went from Ulta to Bloomingdales. She worked for Paula Dorf, then became counter manager for DIOR and did freelance makeup. She started working in reality TV, was able to meet the right people including Jillian Dempsey—and the rest is history.

Her favorite makeup product:

Although she has many favorites, the one thing in her kit that she uses on all her clients is Laura Mercier Hydrating Primer.

Why she decided to create the Blighlighter and what’s in store for the brand:

Greenberg explained that she was constantly mixing different cheek colors in her kit for different clients. She wanted to create something that was easy to use and could be used on anyone. 

She starting taking samples with her into the field and everyone fell in love with it. The Blighlighter really is the perfect product for when you need a little pick-me-up or to hop on yet another Zoom meeting.

She couldn’t give too much away, but Greenberg hinted that her line will include additional products including more colors of the Blighlighter, lips, eyes, and even complexion products. Can’t wait!

Advice for someone trying to grow their brand on social media:

Have fun while creating content. If you are yourself and relatable, you will attract the right audience. Consistency is key, and the quality and engagement of your followers is more important than quantity. Be human.

What has brought her joy in 2020 and 2021:

2020 has been hard on everyone. Greenberg has been finding joy in self-care in the form of her skincare routine, exercise, cooking, and of course, TV (#netflixandchill).

Her favorite Peloton instructors include Cody Rigsby, Alex Toussaint, Tunde, Ally Love (my all-time fave!), and Robin Arzon.

How do balance being a wife, mother of 3, and businesswoman:

There is no one answer other than you just figure out how to do it.

It goes back to being human and relatable. Greenberg prides herself on being authentic and breaking down stereotypes.

It’s impossible and unrealistic to be perfect at all times. No one is. Just be yourself.

It’s important to realize that we are all just trying our hardest.

What woman-owned small business are you loving?

 @_jennybird  A Canadian-based jewelry designer, Jenny Bird features jewelry that is beautiful yet relatively affordable.

@goodmollys Good Molly’s Bakery features baked goods and treats that are made without gluten, peanuts, dairy, egg, soy or tree nuts.

 @motherlandstuff Born in Kenya, founder @tishnastasha features jewelry and art directly from Africa, made by African artists.

I know I sound like a broken record, but Greenberg really is amazing. Not only are her products fantastic, we had a great conversation and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for her brand.

I now have all shades of the Blightlighter, and I’m not kidding when I say they are the perfect addition to my makeup routine. Perfect for every day, it’s amazing what a little blush + highlighter combo can do to raise your spirits!

Make sure to follow Greenberg on Instagram: @jamiemakeup. All shades of the Blighlighter are $34 and can be found online at jamiemakeup.com.

Tara KP Troszak is an LA-based lawyer, self-proclaimed cat lady, writer and freelance makeup artist for MAC cosmetics. She lives in the San Fernando Valley with her husband Nick and her cat Chevy. Follow her on Instagram: @makeupbytkp.