About Make-up Designory
Founded in Los Angeles in 1997 by a team of visionary make-up artists, educators, and administrators, Make-up Designory (MUD) was born from a shared passion: to elevate the art of make-up through exceptional education. What began as a humble, two-room classroom in North Hollywood has since grown into a globally recognized institution—respected by industry professionals and aspiring artists alike.
Headquartered in the heart of Los Angeles, MUD operates its flagship school, assembly, and distribution center, as the central hub for its worldwide network. Each year, students from across the globe train at MUD Los Angeles or through its international network of MUD Studios. In addition, MUD’s School Partner Program extends its curriculum to cosmetology and esthetics schools, offering students the opportunity to receive world-class make-up training as part of their broader beauty education.
At the core of MUD’s success is its unwavering commitment to results-driven education, high standards, and comprehensive educator training. Rooted in structure, discipline, and realworld application, MUD’s teaching philosophy ensures that every graduate leaves not only with strong technical skills but also with the confidence and professionalism to thrive in the industry.
But MUD is more than a school or a cosmetics brand—it is a community of artists, educators, and industry leaders. MUD graduates can be found on film sets, television productions, theater stages, fashion runways, and behind the scenes of the beauty industry worldwide. Many have gone on to win Emmys, Guild Awards, and other industry honors—a testament to the lasting impact of a MUD education.
Above all, MUD is a place where creativity is nurtured, diversity is celebrated, and students are supported long after graduation. The MUD family—made up of students, alumni, instructors, and partners—is the heart of everything we do. As we continue to grow and evolve, our mission remains the same: to empower artists through exceptional training, quality products, and an unwavering dedication to the craft of make-up.
Beyond education, MUD is also a respected name in professional cosmetics. Its full range of high-performance products including foundations, concealers, cheek, eye, and lip colors, tools, and brushes—is crafted to meet the demands of working artists. Designed in alignment with MUD’s educational methodology, every product serves a purpose and integrates seamlessly into the classroom and the kit. MUD also continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability, with ongoing efforts to reduce single-use plastics and minimize environmental impact.
MUD Graduate Spotlight WINNERS NOMINEES
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE:
A Tribute to Our Outstanding MUD Nominees and Winners of the Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild (IATSE Local 706).
We are incredibly proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our alumni who have been nominated and awarded at this year’s prestigious 12th Annual MUAHS Awards. The MUAHS Awards recognize excellence in the artistry and creativity of MakeUp Artists and Hair Stylists in 23 categories, including motion pictures, television, music videos and theater entertainment. This year, the theater category has expanded to include Broadway and international theater productions. Their dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to their craft are truly inspiring.
Each nominee and winner embodies the highest standards of excellence in their respective industries. Their talent, hard work, and passion have not only set them apart but have also elevated the industries they represent. These individuals are trailblazers, pushing boundaries, and redefining what is possible. They inspire us all to strive for greatness and remind us that with perseverance and passion, there are no limits to what can be achieved.
We are honored to have such exceptional talent within our community, and we look forward to watching them continue to lead, innovate, and inspire the world.
Congratulations once again to all the nominees and winners. Your achievements are a testament to your brilliance, and we are incredibly proud to stand beside you!
Best Make-Up
KIM WEBER
THE KELLY CLARKSON SHOW for Daytime Television, Game Show or Talk Show
RILEY NIGHTINGALL
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS for Daytime Television, Game Show or Talk Show
AMANDA GOLDSTEIN
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS for Daytime Television, Game Show or Talk Show
JENNIFER MCDANIEL
THE REALLY LOUD HOUSE for Children and Teen Television Programming
SIERRA BARTON
THE REALLY LOUD HOUSE for Children and Teen Television Programming
MELISSA ROGERS
“FORTNIGHT” - TAYLOR SWIFT for Commercials and Music Videos
SIERRA BARTON
THE REALLY LOUD HOUSE for Children's and Family Emmys
JENNIFER MCDANIEL
THE REALLY LOUD HOUSE for Children's and Family Emmys
SARAH BUCKLEY
GOOSEBUMPS for Children's and Family Emmys
Best Contemporary Make-Up
VALERIE
SABRINA WILSON
DOCTOR ODYSSEY for Television Series – Limited, Miniseries, or Movie for Television
LAUREN KILLIP
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE for Television Special, One Hour or More Live Program Series
GINA GHIGLIERI THE VOICE for Television Special, One Hour or More Live Program Series
Best Special Make-Up Effects
MEGAN THOMAS
BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE for Feature Length Motion Picture
EMMA FAULKES
HOUSE OF THE DRAGON
THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER for Television Series – Limited, Miniseries, or Movie for Television
HUGO VILLASENOR NIGHT COURT for Television Special, One Hour or More Live Program Series
Period and/or Character Make-Up
ERIN LEBRE AGATHA ALL ALONG for Television Series – Limited, Miniseries, or Movie for Television
TANA MEDINA AGATHA ALL ALONG for Television Series – Limited, Miniseries, or Movie for Television
KRISTEN ALIMENA
FEUD: CAPOTE VS THE SWANS for Television Series – Limited, Miniseries, or Movie for Television
ANGELIQUE VELEZ MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS for Television Special, One Hour or More Live Program Series
Period And/Or Character Hairstyling
BRITTANY MADRIGAL PALM ROYALE for Television Series – Limited, Miniseries, or Movie for Television Best Hairstyling
AMANDA DAWN MITCHELL
PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS for Children and Teen Television Programming
BRANDI STRONA LA TRAVIATA (LA OPERA) ROMEO AND JULIET (LA OPERA)
TURANDOT (LA OPERA) California Regional: Best Make-Up and Hair Styling for Live Theatrical Productions
Ronette rushed home to be by his side, holding his hand through his final weeks. After his passing, she decided to stop everything. "I quit modeling and took a 9-to-5 job in Cape Town. I went on autopilot for three years. It was hard to dare to dream again after losing him."
But in 2014, a new chapter began. Ronny met a friend with a dream of working and living in India. It was an opportunity for a fresh start. "I decided to quit my job and do another three-month stint in India. That stint turned into three years."
In just one year, Ronette's career took off. She booked jobs a year in advance, appeared in movies, starred in A-list music videos, and even co-hosted her television show, which was filmed in Paris and Mumbai. "In India, truly felt celebrated. I was a goddess there." Yet even with all this success, she continued to struggle with body image and health issues."
"It was only later that realized it was a form of self-sabotage. As I got closer to real success, used my body and weight as an excuse to hold myself back," Ronny says. But India was a time of body celebration and empowerment.
The Fashion Story: A Tribute to Resilience
Inspired by Ronny's incredible life and career as a fashion model, this fashion story captures the relentless fighting spirit and resilience of the modern-day woman. In selecting the Voortrekker Monument, we sought a location with profound historical and cultural significance.
Built to celebrate Afrikaans heritage in South Africa, this structure symbolizes not only history but also the incredible resilience of the women who played a pivotal role in the The nation's story.
Adding to the monument's historical weight, the Art Deco design of the structure mirrors the blending of tradition with modernity. Ronny, who worked through two distinct decades in the fashion industry, embodies this fusion of old and new perfectly. The shoot was intended to celebrate Ronny's work as an avant-garde and high-fashion model.
We wanted to honor Ronny's roots by looking at the '90s model era, with its sharp lines, bold statements, and fierce individuality, and the modern evolution of fashion. Vintage coats and intense statement jewelry paid tribute to her iconic high-fashion look while highlighting the themes of endurance, strength, and timeless elegance.
Our MUD make-up artists brought femininity to life, creating a range of looks that symbolized the multifaceted modern-day woman: the golden goddess, the red-lip corporate female, the nude, natural woman, and the ultra-resilient warrior. Each make-up look was a reflection of the different layers of strength that women embody today—whether it's in the corporate boardroom, on the runway, or in the everyday battles of life.
In India, I truly felt celebrated. I was a goddess there. “
MUD Prosthetics Invitational 2025
Each year, some of Make-up Designory’s most talented graduates return to campus for a special tradition: the MUD Prosthetics Invitational. Curated and hosted by veteran make-up artist and Make-up Designory graduate, Shelby Patton, the Invitational is a complimentary event that invites graduates to push their creativity, expand their professional networks, and showcase their artistry through
Graduates from MUD’s special makeup effects programs are encouraged to apply by submitting photographs of their best prosthetic work along with a written statement describing their interest in the event. From these applications, Shelby and
the team carefully review portfolios and pair artists into two-person teams. Placement is designed not just to highlight technical ability but also to build complementary skill sets and balance experience levels, mirroring the dynamics of a professional film or television make-up department.
Unlike a competition or a classroom exercise, the Invitational is designed as a portfoliobuilding and networking opportunity. Its purpose is to foster collaboration and connection among artists with varying degrees of professional experience. Each participant receives studio space, prosthetic appliances, a model, mentoring, and the guidance needed to bring their vision to life. The collaborative nature of the event encourages graduates to experiment, problem-solve, and learn from one another in real time.
Preparation for the Invitational begins weeks before the on-campus session. Once selected, artists are assigned prosthetics and models, allowing them to begin prepping appliances and planning their designs. When the application day arrives, teams gather on campus to transform their concepts into finished characters. The atmosphere is equal parts electric and collegial, an environment where creativity thrives without the pressure of competition.
As the day unfolds, each team applies their make-up and prosthetics under the mentorship of industry veterans. Professional photographers, Deverill Weekes and Jim Donnelly, document the final looks, ensuring participants walk away with high-quality images for their portfolios. These photographs not only benefit the graduates but also become part of MUD’s visual legacy, featured in school catalogs, websites, and promotional materials that showcase the caliber of its alumni.
For Shelby Patton, the Invitational is deeply personal. “ thought the Battle of the Brushes at IMATS was important for young artists. When IMATS ended, a void was created. I created the Prosthetic Invitational as a means to fill that void and provide an opportunity for MUD graduates to create fantastic make-ups in a collaborative environment,” she explains.
Participants echoed that same enthusiasm.
Mentors, too, see the value in giving back. Hugo Villaseñor, a MUD graduate and working professional, reflected on his role as a mentor: “Man, had to be here, I’m a graduate. MUD did so much for me, and it feels good to be back on campus working with the next generation of MUD-trained artists.”
Recent graduate Mia Roofthooft summed up her experience simply: “Amazing, amazing, amazing! The best day of my life.”
The Prosthetics Invitational has quickly become more than just an event; it is a celebration of MUD’s culture, where artistry, collaboration, and mentorship come together to strengthen a growing community of make-up professionals. For graduates, it is a reminder that their education is not just the beginning of a career but also an entry into a creative family that continues to support and inspire long after graduation.
TEAM
Howe & Tina Demirchian
TEAM LYCAN Wren Witting & Khalen Lennon TEAM
TEAM OGRE
Francesca Houlbrooke & Hayley Glazier TEAM
The New Beauty Textbook Has Arrived!
This book is made to support excellence at every level.
We have unveiled the new edition of the Beauty Make-up textbook, an essential update designed for both aspiring and seasoned makeup artists. This edition represents a complete reimagining of the original text, offering not just a revision, but a transformation. With a modern layout and hundreds of new images and illustrations, the book provides a visually rich learning experience that resonates with today’s students. Step-by-step diagrams, photographic examples, and expanded explanations give readers the tools to grasp core make-up artistry concepts while also exploring advanced techniques. Beyond surface-level updates, the new edition incorporates fresh terminology and updated practices that align with the evolving beauty industry, ensuring readers are prepared for real-world applications.
The expanded content of Beauty Make-up positions it as more than just a reference, it is a comprehensive guide to artistry, creativity, and technical mastery. Readers will find broader coverage on topics such as skin tone matching, highlight and shadow placement, and corrective techniques, while also being introduced to contemporary approaches that reflect the diverse faces and styles encountered in today’s beauty world. Designed with visual learners in mind, the new edition bridges the gap between theory and practice, helping students internalize concepts through clear, engaging visuals and exercises. For educators, it provides a reliable teaching tool that elevates classroom discussions and demonstrations. For professionals, it serves as a refreshed resource to refine skills and stay current in a competitive industry. MUD’s commitment to excellence and innovation shines through every page, making this latest edition of Beauty Make-up a must-have for anyone serious about the craft.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
// Updated step-by-step techniques and photography
// Expanded chapters on skin tones, color theory, hygiene, and tools
// Real-world insights from working professionals
// Clean, modern layout designed for both the classroom and self-study
Now available for partners & educators. A Modern Classic for the Next Generation of Artists
Paul Thompson - author
Make-up Designory Honored as ACCSC School of Distinction for 2024–2025
Make-up Designory (MUD), Los Angeles, is proud to announce that it has been named a recipient of the ACCSC School of Distinction Award for 2024–2025 by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). This prestigious honor is awarded to a select group of institutions that demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards in education and institutional integrity.
The School of Distinction Award is based on a comprehensive evaluation of an institution’s performance during its most recent accreditation review. To be eligible, schools must have undergone a full accreditation process between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, and must have been found to be in substantial compliance with all accreditation standards. This year, over 265 institutions applied for initial or renewal accreditation. Of these, only 11 schools were selected for this award, making it a rare and meaningful recognition.
Make-up Designory was founded on a simple but powerful principle: to provide outstanding education and professional-grade products for those pursuing a career in make-up artistry. From classroom instruction to career preparation, every facet of the MUD experience is built on quality, professionalism, and student success. Receiving the School of Distinction Award is a reflection of these values and a recognition of the entire MUD team’s commitment to excellence.
“As someone who sees the dedication behind the scenes every day, know how much this recognition means,” said Tate Holland, President and CEO of Make-up Designory. “This award is a direct result of the effort, expertise, and heart that our instructors, staff, and leadership bring to our school. I’m incredibly proud of the education we provide and the impact we have on our students’ futures.”
MUD was formally honored at the ACCSC Professional Development Conference, held September 15–17, 2025, in Arlington, Virginia. The award was presented during the Annual Meeting and Institutional Awards Celebration
DeeDee Smith
Instructor Spotlight
DeeDee discovered her love for hair at an early age, experimenting with her grandmother’s wig and sparking a lifelong journey in beauty and creativity. Even while pursuing her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Morgan State University, she never strayed far from her passion, continuing to do hair and later attending cosmetology school to hone her craft.
Her creative vision and fearless approach soon led her into production styling, where she has transformed looks for various media, print, and fashion platforms.
Her career has taken her to Miami, Los Angeles, Dallas, and back home to New York City, styling clients that include global icons such as Lady Gaga, 50 Cent, and Olympic champion Allyson Felix.
Wherever her work takes her, DeeDee remains devoted to creating hair that inspires confidence, artistry, and style.
Beauty 201 Instructor, MUD Los Angeles
Get to know MUD’s Los Angeles campus
Learning in La-La Land
Los Angeles has long been the heart of the entertainment industry and the birthplace of modern film. The start of Universal Studios in 1912, Paramount Studios in 1914, and Warner Brothers Entertainment in 1923 helped to shape L.A. and continues to influence film and entertainment today. It’s no wonder that twenty years ago MUD began in the very same city.
Our students come to study for a variety of reasons, from cosmetic sales to weddings and entertainment, but film and television are in the backdrop of all we do.
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CONTOUR POWDERS
MUD Studios
North America
MUD Studio LA
Make-up Designory Los Angeles
129 S. San Fernando Blvd. Burbank, CA 91502 818 729 9420 reception@mud.edu www.mud.edu
MUD Studio Knoxville Tennessee School of Beauty 4704 Western Ave, Knoxville, TN 37921 865 588 7878 www.tennesseeschoolofbeauty.edu
Asia
MUD Studio Mumbai
1st Floor, 893, Notan Chambers, Turner Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, India +91 97649 97384 +91 70309 30437 www.makeupdesignoryindia.in
MUD Studio Manila
1015-1016 Lower Ground Level East Wing Shangri-La Plaza Mall Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila Philippines +63 917 180 1133 info@mudstudiomanila.com www.mudstudiomanila.com
Europe
MUD Studio Ljubljana Rimska cesta 13 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia +386 1 6200 348 info@makeupdesignory.eu www.makeupdesignory.si
MUD Studio Vienna Karl-Schweighofer-Gasse 12/6, 1070 Wien, Austria +43 664 88227878 info@mudstudio.at www.makeupdesignory.at
MUD Studio Berlin Oderberger Str. 48 10435 Berlin, Germany +49 30 23906900 info@mud-studio.de www.mud-studio.de
MUD Studio Antwerp
Grote Pieter Potstraat 1 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium +32 3 226 32 22 antwerpen@huskk.be www.huskk.be
MUD Studio Izegem Lindenstraat 27, 8870 Izegem, Belgium +32 9 279 53 59 info@huskk.be www.huskk.be
MUD Studio Rome Viale Giotto n. 3 00153 – Roma, Italy +0039 06 45763132 info@muditaly.com www.makeupdesignory.it
MUD Studio Milan Via Soncino, 1/10 Milano 20123, Italy +39 02 3659 8968 info@muditaly.com www.makeupdesignory.it
MUD Studio Cyprus TIME Private Institute
Eleutherias Avenue 71, 7102 Aradippu, Larnaca, Cyprus +357 24400767 info@time-institute.eu mudstudiocy@gmail.com
Africa
MUD Studio Bloemfontein Shop 14, Preller Square Centre Louw Wepener Str. Dan Pienaar Bloemfontein, South Africa +2783 544 6025 preller@mudsa.co.za www.mudsa.co.za
MUD Studio Sunninghill Sunninghill Business Village, Tudor House 15 Tana road, Sunninghill Johannesburg South Africa 2195 +2769 254 6828 jhb@metabeauty.co.za www.metabeauty.co.za
MUD Studio Cape Town 2 Loxton road, Unit 20 Milnerton Mall, Milnerton Cape Town, South Africa 7441 +2760 895 4557 ct@metabeauty.co.za www.metabeauty.co.za
USA
Make-up Designory USA 129 S. San Fernando Blvd. Burbank, CA 91502 818 729 9420 sales@mud.edu www.mud.edu www.mudshop.com
Europe
Make-up Designory Europe Rimska cesta 13 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia, Europe +386 1 6200 348 info@makeupdesignory.eu www.makeupdesignory.eu www.shop.makeupdesignory.eu
Africa
Make-up Designory South Africa Sunninghill Business Village, Tana Road, Sunninghill, Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa +081 500 3667 office@mudsa.co.za www.mudsa.co.za
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