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

Hi Niki, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
With over 25 years of experience as a makeup artist, I have dedicated my career to enhancing natural beauty and building confidence through the power of transformation. My journey into microblading grew out of this passion, allowing me to combine creativity with precision to create results that are both lasting and life-changing. I see each face as a unique canvas, where artistry and technique come together to restore balance, frame expression, and highlight individuality. For me, microblading is more than a beauty treatment—it is an intimate form of art that empowers clients to see themselves with renewed confidence every day

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started my career assisting in New York as a makeup artist, where I built a strong foundation and valuable connections that later helped me transition to Los Angeles. When I permanently stayed in LA, I was able to grow my portfolio and reputation through those relationships, eventually becoming a union artist and working as part of the makeup team for E! News. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of working with high-profile clients, editorial shoots, and red-carpet events. It hasn’t always been easy, but the challenges taught me perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to my artistry. What I’m most proud of is not just the caliber of work I’ve been able to do, but the trust I’ve built with clients and collaborators. At the heart of my brand is a belief that permanent makeup and makeup artistry is more than just beauty—it’s storytelling, confidence, and connection.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d want to give them a mix of iconic LA experiences and some of my personal favorites. For lunch, I’d take them to the Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel for that classic, glamorous LA vibe, and for dinner, Matū is a must for an incredible meal, followed by cocktails at The Wellesbourne for a cozy, stylish night out. We’d spend time exploring the beaches in Malibu, shopping at the Malibu Country Mart, and checking out exhibits at The Broad or LACMA. Of course, no trip would be complete without a drive up the coast on PCH. To me, the best part of LA is the blend of luxury, culture, and laid-back energy, so I’d want them to leave feeling like they experienced all sides of the city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to take a moment to recognize my mentor, Christina Zilber, whose guidance and vision have had a lasting impact on my artistic journey. Christina’s dedication to beauty, innovation, and empowerment has been a source of inspiration throughout my career. She not only taught me the importance of skill and creativity, but also the value of authenticity, resilience, and staying true to one’s passion. Her mentorship encouraged me to believe in my own artistry and gave me the confidence to evolve, grow, and pursue new creative paths. I am deeply grateful for her influence and the example she continues to set as both an artist and a leader

Website: https://www.studioneosbeauty.com

Instagram: @nikimetzbeauty

Image Credits
Kimberly Metz photographer

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.