Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry - Silver Spring, Maryland

Christina Sohn

I learned so much and had such a fun time during my 1:1 makeup lesson with Valerie! She took the time to ask me about my makeup goals and customized her lesson to fit my specific facial features. We started with developing a look for everyday wear, and she also added tips for enhancing for a more dramatic and glamorous look. She provided recommendations for makeup that would match my skin type, while also making sure to incorporate and optimize my existing makeup and brush collection. I came away from the lesson feeling confident in my ability to create the desired look for myself for any occasion. As a new mom, it also felt great to take some time for self-care. An added bonus is that Valerie is a warm and fun person to be around, and she creates a non-judgmental and accepting space to learn about makeup.

I’ve also had Valerie do my makeup for a photo session, and I admire how she truly understands how makeup can help you look your best in the camera’s eye. Overall, I highly recommend Valerie for any of her makeup services or lessons!

Jenny Rhee

Valerie is such an amazing makeup artist, and I'm so happy I found her. I used her two separate times recently for both hair and makeup for my business branding photo shoot as well as for family photos. She's incredibly talented and nailed the look I was going for. The photos came out amazing all thanks to her. Valerie is also incredibly down to earth and fun to talk to. She was so flexible and accommodating with my schedule as well. Seeing her is always a blast and a great break from the daily grind! I will be using her for all of my other makeup needs and can't wait to take her makeup class next!!!

Ginny Thomas

Val's makeup class is a MUST.  I learned SO much- not just about makeup, but about skin care, MY skin, what works best for my face and features, techniques on applying, washing, maintaining my routine and my products, and a customized list of products (completely optional and zero pressure to buy anything). I feel so much more confident doing my makeup for my 40-something self now and not just guessing and trying and watching random youtube videos of people with completely different faces and complexions.   She really listened to my goals and needs and customized the class from there.  I also love that she has you bring your own products and shows you how to work with what you have if you're not in the space to buy a bunch of new stuff.  It was such an education into all things skin care and makeup that I could never get anywhere else because it was truly about my unique look.  It's also a major plus that Val is someone you WANT to hang with for 2 hours anyway- she's easy going, completely non judgmental and totally understands the busy working woman/mom life that doesn't have a lot of time for a complicated makeup routine.  I truly can't recommend her class enough!  (and you can also gift a class to a friend- such a great and unique gift idea!!)

Lauren Wiebe

Valerie's makeup lesson was incredible! A perfect mix of encouraging me how to use my own makeup and providing suggestions to compliment. She spent over two hours teaching me how to apply bridal-ready makeup, all while listening to what I wanted and keeping it in line with my comfort-level. She even sent me home with an entire case of brushes! Couldn't recommend her more.

Valle Nicole Hauspurg

Valerie has a thoughtful and practical way of sharing helpful techniques. I appreciate how she didn’t just show us by doing it herself, she taught us how to integrate practices into our everyday life though experiential learning. The session was thoughtfully structured to allow us to listen, see, try, ask questions, and take notes. Thanks, Valerie!

Elisa Chen Sukhobok

I did a one-on-one session with Val, and she was incredible and patient! I learned so much, especially things that are unique for my age and skin. I was also looking for someone who understood Asian features. Not only that, but Val also had wonderful product recommendations and follow up afterwards with an email labeling all the different brushes!!! Highly recommend Val!

Ruthie Sherman

Val's makeup lesson was extremely helpful. She gave me the essential tips and tools I couldn't get from resources online. She's the perfect artist for a more natural look. I would strongly encourage anyone interested to do her makeup lesson to build confidence in your makeup skills with an expert who really cares about her craft!

Tonya Montella

My experience with Valerie was nothing short of AMAZING. She was responsive and flexible from the beginning, which was crucial as I was preparing for my branding photoshoot from hundreds of miles away. She made me look better than I've ever looked (no, seriously), and her energy and conversation was so natural and inviting. I immediately felt comfortable with her and loved that she asked me questions along the way to ensure that she achieved the look that I was hoping for. My photoshoot was on a sweltering hot and humid day and the makeup lasted the entire time - I was floored! Book Valerie, you will not regret it!