About Glow Up Academy

We're excited to introduce you to Glow Up Academy, the first makeup business school in Upstate New York, where artistry meets entrepreneurship. At Glow Up Academy, we are more than a school - we are a community of aspiring and thriving makeup artists, dedicated to teaching the skills and business acumen needed to excel in the beauty industry.


Our Mission & Values

Our mission is to empower passionate individuals like you to turn your love for makeup into a sustainable, profitable, and fulfilling career. We value quality education, hands-on experience, and a supportive environment that nurtures creativity and ambition.

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Program Overview

Become a Certified Makeup Artist in just 4 weeks

Join our Beginner to Pro Freelance MUA Certification Program Today!

The Glow Up Academy Advantage:

Hybrid Learning

Our Beginner to Pro Makeup Artist Certification Course combines the flexibility of online learning with the transformative power of in-person training. Over 4 weeks and 60 hours of expert-led instruction, you’ll gain access to a hybrid curriculum that covers everything from mastering the basics to perfecting advanced techniques. Start with self-paced online modules designed to build a strong foundation and fit seamlessly into your schedule. Then, join us for 6 consecutive days of immersive, hands-on training in our state-of-the-art facility, where you’ll refine your skills under the guidance of industry professionals. This innovative hybrid model ensures you get the best of both worlds—convenience and comprehensive, personalized mentorship—equipping you to launch a successful career as a professional makeup artist.

Ongoing Mentorship & Support for Your Success:

At Glow Up Academy, your journey doesn’t end at graduation—it’s just the beginning. Each student will have access to the full program for one year, ensuring they can revisit lessons as they refine their skills. You’ll also gain entry into my private mentorship program, where you’ll receive unlimited 1:1 guidance from me for six months as you navigate and grow in the beauty industry. To further enhance your learning experience, you’ll join our private Facebook group during the first two weeks of online learning, where you can submit assignments, ask questions, and receive personalized feedback. Graduates will earn a pro certification, gain exclusive access to pro discounts from top beauty brands, and have the unique opportunity to join my agency as a bridal artist. With this program, you’ll be fully supported every step of the way and can earn back your investment in less than five weddings. At Glow Up Academy, your success is our priority!

Class Start Date & Times:

Winter Evening Classes run on Tuesdays - Thursdays from 5:30pm - 9:30pm.

Upcoming In-Person Trainings:

2/18 - 2/20 & 2/25 - 2/27
3/18 - 3/20 & 3/25 - 3/27

Our summer schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.

Apply Here

Curriculum Breakdown

Week 1: ONLINE

Orientation, Brand Identity, Niches as a MUA, Professionalism in the Beauty Industry, Hygiene, Safety, Infection Control, Anatomy, Application Theory, Consultation Practices, Product & Tool Knowledge, and Color Theory.

Week 2: ONLINE

Problem Solving Techniques, Business/Career Development, Setting Profitable Pricing, Savings & Budgeting Strategies, Best Business Practices, Future Growth Planning, Introduction to Content Creation and Business Scaling Strategies.

Week 3: IN-PERSON

Skin Prep, Face Base Application, Basic Eyeshadow Techniques, Perfected Lash Applications, Lip Combos on fair/light Skin Tones, Client Problem Solving Techniques, Client Communication/Consultation Workshop, Content Creation and Best Social Media Practices Exercise.

Week 4: IN-PERSON

Skin Prep, Face Base Application, Advanced Eyeshadow Techniques, Perfected Lash Applications, Lip Combos on medium/deep skin tones, Client Problem Solving Techniques, Client Communication/Consultation Workshop, Content Creation and Best Social Media Practices Exercise.

Why Choose Glow Up Academy?

At Glow Up Academy, our goal is for you to leave with not only technical skills but the business mindset to pursue your dream career. We believe in your potential and are here to help you every step of the way.

Glow Up Academy
First and Only Makeup & Business School in Upstate NY

We are the first and only makeup business school in all of Upstate New York that provides more education on makeup applications/techniques, proper business practices and social media marketing than any other cosmetology or esthetics school in the area.

Industry-Recognized Certification

Upon graduation, you will receive a certification that not only validates your skills but gives you credibility with clients and industry professionals alike.

Exclusive Pro Discounts

As a Glow Up Academy student, you’ll gain access to professional discounts (up to 40%) with popular skincare and makeup brands, ensuring you have the best tools to start your journey.

Real-World Experience

We provide select graduates the opportunity to join our luxury bridal team, offering hands-on experience with real clients to build your confidence and portfolio.

Return on Investment

Upon graduation, you’ll have the exclusive opportunity to apply to join my luxury bridal team where you’ll be paid a minimum of $100 per service. Working 18 hours a week for 40 weeks out of the year, you’ll have the potential to earn a minimum of $72,000 a year. With the expertise and tools we provide, you have the potential to earn back your tuition in just three weddings, making this a truly worthwhile investment in your future.

Comprehensive Business Training

Glow Up Academy offers a unique curriculum that goes beyond makeup artistry. You’ll gain knowledge in business operations, customer relations, social media marketing, content creation, pricing strategies, personal investments and retirement strategies, so you’re equipped to run and grow your own successful business and live your best life.

Social Media & Marketing Mastery

Learn how to effectively use social media to market yourself, attract ideal clients, and build a loyal following, setting you up to thrive in today’s digital world.

Small, Intimate Class Sizes

We keep our class sizes small, allowing for personalized attention and hands-on guidance. This intimate setting fosters a supportive learning environment where you’ll receive individual feedback, build strong connections with classmates, and create a collaborative learning atmosphere where everyone can thrive and grow at their own pace.

In-person Guest Speakers

Guest speakers bring valuable, real-world insights that go beyond textbook knowledge. Guest speakers often bring networking opportunities that can extend beyond the classroom. Our students will be able to establish ongoing connections with these experts, gaining access to future guidance and potential mentorship, which can be invaluable as they build their businesses.

Financial Literacy Training

At GUA, we provide financial experts such as financial planners, bookkeepers and accountants to directly learn from so our students can understand key financial concepts like budgeting, tax planning, cash flow management, and profit margins BEFORE they graduate and start their career. This foundational knowledge will empower you to make informed financial decisions as business owners, potentially avoiding costly mistakes in the future.

Next Steps

If you're ready to turn your passion into a profitable career, we'd love to invite you to apply to Glow Up Academy. Please use the link below to fill out our application and someone will contact you within 24 hours.

Apply to Glow Up Academy

Love Notes from past students

Alex B.
★★★★★

Getting to work with Angilee has been an amazing opportunity! She is incredibly driven and gives 110% to her brides and artists alike. Learning from her has helped me take my artistry and career to the next level and given me the confidence to trust myself. I am consistently amazed with how Angilee makes every bride feel special and beautiful all while ensuring that her team has everything they need to succeed. The way she explains her techniques during trainings makes a huge difference in how I’m able to replicate it on my own. I can’t recommend choosing Glow Up enough whether it’s for bridal glam or in-depth training. Thank you to Angilee for your help and your patience, can’t wait for this next chapter.

Janelys T.
★★★★★

Angilee has taught me so much. She’s an exceptional teacher and mentor—patient, incredibly knowledgeable, and truly invested in both her business and your personal success. Her clear guidance, insightful advice, and valuable recommendations have been instrumental in helping me improve my skills. She’s supportive and dedicated to working with you until you achieve your goals and I couldn’t recommend her more highly.

Christie T.
★★★★★

My experience with Angilee as a mentor & educator has been exceptional! She is the real deal and will teach you everything she knows so that you become a successful artist & business owner. Her education is next level and her heart leads her business. She will have your back when you need it the most! 100/10 recommend!

Feidi G.
★★★★★

Angilee is a fantastic educator. Meets you where you are and provides useful tips to improve your skills. She is caring and kind with her delivery as well! She is so sweet and knowledgeable!