Beautiful way to empower women
In an industry, which can be super-competitive, these three beauty professionals recognise they are stronger if they collaborate and their clients benefit too.
Lauren Purnell from Lalas make up, Debbie Haslam from Refine Studio and Marissa Nielser – Makeup Artist are independent artists with unique styles, personalities, and approaches to beauty who have come together.
“We’re not just collaboratorswe’re a support system. We’ve had each other’s backs when unexpected jobs pop up, when someone’s unavailable, or when we simply need an extra set of hands,” Marissa explains.
“Whether it’s splitting large group bookings or seamlessly working side-by-side to deliver flawless results for our brides, we work cohesively with one shared goal: to give every client the absolute best experience.”
In an industry where comparison can easily creep in, they say it is refreshing and empowering to be surrounded by like-minded women who are genuinely “rooting for you to succeed”.
“We each have our own creative signature - our own way of seeing and expressing beauty - but that’s what makes working together so special. Instead of competing, we complement each other,” Marissa says.
“Instead of tearing each other down, we build each other up. And through it all, we continue learning and growing - not just as artists, but as women in business.
“I’m so proud of the work we create, not only because of the quality we deliver, but because of the trust, respect, and genuine friendship that’s behind it.”
Debbie says in the competitive world of beauty, makeup artists are finding strength in referring and supporting each other.
“Whether we’re fully booked or specialising in different styles, myself, Lauren and Marissa choose collaboration over competition, recommending each other to clients when we are unavailable. This
builds trust with clients but also strengthens our industry connections and fosters mutual respect.”
Lalas make up
Lauren Purnell says she has had a passion for makeup and making women feel beautiful for as long as she can remember.
“I love that this industry is constantly evolvingtechniques that I was taught over 17 years ago have changed so much and I thrive on learning and mastering new equipment and products that are out there and available to us and then passing that knowledge on through my makeup lessons,” she says.
“One of the best parts of my job is spinning my clients' chair around and watching their faces light up. Their happiness is mine too.”
Lauren says creating her own makeup range, LaLas Makeup, has been one of her greatest achievements.
“From the beginning, my goal was to design products that are user-friendly, longlasting, and give that beautiful, glowy finish we all love,” she explains.
“I was passionate about making sure every formula was infused with skin-loving ingredients, so not only would you look good, but your skin would feel good too.
VISIT lalasmakeup.com.au
Refine Studio
Debbie Haslam is a Newportbased lash and brow expert and professional makeup artist who is redefining beauty through precision, creativity and care at Refine Studio.
“With an eye for detail and a passion for enhancing natural features, I specialise in tailored lash and brow services that elevate each client’s look. From flawless brow shaping to lush lash extensions, every treatment is designed to highlight individuality,” she explains.
“As a makeup artist, I bring artistry and expertise to every face, whether it’s for a wedding, photoshoot, or special event.”
Debbie even offers oneon-one tutorials for clients wanting to learn some “tricks of the trade”
VISIT refinestudiobeauty.com
Marissa Nielser –Makeup Artist
Marissa Niesler is a professional makeup artist, hair stylist, and nanoplasty specialist based in Brisbane.
“My work is grounded in the belief that beauty belongs to everyone - and that makeup, hair, and styling should enhance who you are, not change you. I’m passionate about empowering people to embrace their authentic beauty and express themselves with confidence,” she says.
“With years of experience across bridal, formal events, and personalised hair treatments, I offer makeup, hairstyling and nanoplasty services designed to help my clients feel like the best version of themselves.
“From soft, radiant makeup that lasts all day to elevated hairstyling and smooth, healthy hair through nanoplasty, every part of what I do is grounded in care, creativity, and real results.”
“For me, it’s not about trends or perfection - it’s about connection. It’s about helping someone see themselves differently, feel more confident, or simply enjoy a moment of calm in the leadup to something special.”
VISIT marissaniesler.com.au
senior formal fun Stress-free
The Wardrobe at North Lakes is Moreton Bay’s only one-stop-shop for all things formal, taking the stress out of school formals and other special occasions.
Owner Kayla Nancarrow says she opened the business at 71 Flinders Pde, North Lakes, to ensure “absolutely everyone has the opportunity to look and feel amazing, without the hefty price tag”.
“Formals should be a celebration of graduating, not a competition of who has the most expensive dress or the most ‘insta-famous’ makeup artist.
“The Wardrobe is an all-inclusive and safe environment. It’s a place to feel pampered, special and glamorous for your big day.
“With so many schools in the Moreton Bay area, there are a huge number of families trying to navigate the crazy world of senior formal.
“At The Wardrobe, mums and daughters can walk into their fitting with nothing planned and leave with everything booked and organised.”
The Wardrobe has a big selection of well-priced gowns with nothing over $800, including purchase, hire and custom-made options. New arrivals are now in-store ahead of peak formal season.
“Once our formal girls have picked their perfect dress, we can help match accessories from our range. We can organise alterations, if gowns need any final touches,” Kayla explains.
The Wardrobe’s services don’t end with the gown. An inhouse hair and makeup artist from Carmens Makeup Artistry offers all-inclusive packages from the ‘Beauty Mezzanine’.
Spray tanning, nails and photography options are also available.
“We are with you through the whole process - from deciding what colour suits your skin tone to helping you buckle up those heels as you leave the boutique after you've been glammed up for formal,” Kayla says.
“Our boutique hosts a fully functioning beauty bar, full length mirrors, director's chair and amazing aesthetics for all of your pre-event pics.
“We take care of your entire look all in the one place, not only that we offer our studio as an enjoyable, convenient and charming place to get ready.”
We are with you through the “
Book in for a free formal fitting with your own personal stylist.
TO FIND OUT MORE, visit thewardrobe.online or phone 0434 919 040
5 Top five ways to look, feel great
The secret to looking good and feeling great is actually not a secret, it’s pretty logical when you think about it.
It’s a combination of physical and mental wellbeing, which doesn’t have to cost a fortune or be overly complicated. You might just need to change your way of thinking and dedicate more time to the task. Here are our top five ways to look and feel great …
Exercise
The benefits of exercise, in terms of physical and mental wellbeing, are well documented and include increased energy and mood levels, improved physical health, disease prevention, better sleep and many others. Adding exercise to your routine does not have to cost the earth, with heaps of
low-cost and free activities on offer across the City of Moreton Bay. Check out council’s Healthy and Active Moreton program.
The Redcliffe Peninsula offers a network of scenic walking and cycling paths, with views that make you forget you are exercising. Many local parks also have free-to-use outdoor gym equipment.
Eat well
Healthy eating may help you live longer, keep your skin, teeth and eyes in tip-top condition, support muscle development and function, boost immunity and lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend people eat a variety of nutritious foods from the five food groups (vegetables, fruit, grains/cereals, meat/ alternatives and dairy/ alternatives) every day, and drink plenty of water. You
should limit intake of foods containing saturated fat, added salt, added sugars, and alcohol.
Catch up with friends
Spending time with friends and meeting new people can be good for the soul, lifting mood and energy levels.
One-on-one catch-ups with close friends or group gatherings don’t have to be huge social events and can be as simple as going out for coffee, heading to the beach or enjoying a backyard barbecue.
Volunteer/give back
Philanthropy and volunteering not only benefit our community but also those who donate their time and energy.
matter what age we are. It also provides opportunities to meet new people, develop new skills and become more active.
5 4
The act of giving makes us feel good, adding value and purpose to our lives no
Take time out
Making time to relax and doing something you enjoy is central to mental wellbeing at all stages in life.
You know best what those activities are. They could be reading a book, watching a movie, meditating, going for a walk or even riding a motorcycle up the coast. Carve out some time and do whatever works for you. It’s important.
Fernwood’s more than a gym
Fernwood North Lakes and Morayfield are so much more than fitness centres for women, they are a ‘second home’ where women are encouraged to prioritise themselves in a supportive environment.
Owner Larni Mailer says they can take time out of their busy lives to work out and socialise in a setting which offers something for every woman.
“It’s a no-judgement zone … just a supportive, motivating tribe of women of all ages, sizes, cultures empowering each other just by being there,” Larni explains.
“The vision is that these spaces are not just a gym. They are an all-female environment focusing on women empowerment and supporting women to find what works for them to promote their overall health and wellness journey.
“We understand some days all you can do is get dressed. We are here with a caring smile to listen, support and motivate if that’s what you require in that moment, or just be a friendly face on the days you haven’t seen one.”
Fernwood North Lakes and Morayfield offer group fitness classes, Reformer Pilates, HIIT training, yoga, personalised programs and training, nutrition coaching, run club, HYPOXI weight loss studio, child minding, infrared sauna, beauty products to make getting ready easier, complimentary breakfast, tea and coffee station, book library, monthly social events and workshops, and guest speakers to promote self-care and development.
We’re about camaraderie, community and empowerment. “ ”
“I was grateful to the Fernwood community as a mum starting out on my own health and fitness journey. The depth of gratitude grew insurmountably through my family’s own personal heartache,” Larni says.
“Having a space to come to, feeling supported and not alone is the foundation to happiness. Finding a community of women who recognise and share your triumphs and traumas is healing.
“We are all about camaraderie, community and empowerment. To have the opportunity as a franchisee to support other women, the way I have been supported, is everything to me.
“I'm surrounded by women all working on themselves. I get to be a part of their journey, no matter how big or small that part may be. It is rewarding beyond measure.”
NORTH LAKES
5-7 Discovery Dr (07) 3886 4225
MORAYFIELD
379 Morayfield Rd (07) 5433 1187
Exclusive to The Redcliffe Peninsula readers! Enjoy a FREE TRIAL - book a workout and class of your choice, stay for a sauna and enjoy a coffee. Phone or visit Fernwood North Lakes or Morayfield and see for yourself why it is right for you.