As the beauty industry continues to blur the line between artist and influencer, top NYC makeup artist and educator Anjali Wrenn stands out for her clarity.
For her, the distinction is simple but radical: Social media is a portfolio, not a full-time job.
“The priority was always my clients and my work,” Wrenn says, explaining that posting is not a directive; it’s a way to document her professional life. Instead of creating content for engagement’s sake, she simply shares what she is doing, letting her artistry speak for itself.
Wrenn integrates social media into her existing workflow, rather than carving out separate “content days.” The work comes first; the posting follows.
In a landscape that often rewards constant posting and trend-chasing, Wrenn is deliberate about what really matters: consistency, quality, and clarity. “A lot of it is just noise if it doesn’t serve your career.”
She reminds professionals that “visibility should support the craft, not replace it,” and that a career built on skill, trust, and consistency will always outlast the trend cycle.
Authenticity, for Wrenn, is not about reinventing herself, but about longevity. She has chosen not to chase trends that don’t align with her aesthetic or the needs of her clientele.
Importantly, Wrenn is quick to dismantle the idea that social savvy is a requirement for success. There is still ample room for behind-the-scenes artists who prefer to let their reputations do the talking, she says, adding that “social media is a tool, not a mandate.”
Looking ahead, she sees platforms continuing to drive discovery and education, but with a shift toward substance.
For artists feeling overwhelmed by algorithms or pressure to perform, her advice is steady and reassuring: start simple and sustainable. “You don’t need to do everything. You don’t need to post every day,” she says.
“Longevity comes from knowing who you are as an artist, building a strong reputation, and letting your work lead.”
Anjali Wrenn is teaching “Blend It Like a Boss: Foundational Makeup Mastery” and “Bridal Beauty: Perfecting the Art of Timeless Makeup” at the Be+Well | Beauty and Wellness Show New York (formerly International Beauty Show-NY) March 8-10. Registration is here; use the promo code EDSALON20 for 20% off education classes.