About Nancy
Nancy Vela has had a passion for makeup and hair artistry since junior high—and even earlier, when she would try to make her own makeup to play with. She spent countless hours practicing in her room, using tips and inspiration from her favorite fashion magazines. Her mother, an artist herself, helped guide her early by emphasizing the importance of blending and the beauty of a natural look.
As Nancy refined her skills, she began helping friends apply their makeup, which naturally grew into preparing clients for special events.
Nancy studied Visual Communications and Art in college and later earned her Cosmetology license. She then continued her education with 18 months of advanced training at Vidal Sassoon in Chicago. With over 25 years of experience, Nancy has had the pleasure of working with a wide range of fascinating people.
Beyond cosmetology, Nancy has studied Energetic Healing for 12 years and Oriental Medicine for 2 years. She believes that beauty is both internal and external, and she strives to create a calming experience for her clients so their inner beauty can shine through.
Photographers Nancy Has Worked With
Victor Skrebneski, Sandro, Carter Smith, Jeff Stella, Michael Voltatorni, Jean Moss, Tony D'Orio
Clients
Saks Fifth Avenue, Spiegel, Jacobson's, Kohl's, Boston Store, Lands’ End, Hush Puppies, General Motors, Whirlpool, Wahl, Johnson & Johnson, Kraft, Arby’s, McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House, American Airlines, Oneida, Mikimoto, St. Pauli Girl, Trabert & Hoeffer Fine Jewelry, Bigsby & Kruthers, Marshall’s, Loyola University Hospital, Pro Literacy Program, Ad Council – Domestic Violence Prevention
Celebrities
Paul Newman, Phil Jackson, Gale Sayers, Marlee Matlin, Stephanie March (Law and Order SVU), Eric & Kathy and the morning crew including Mark Suppelsa (The Mix), Alanis Morissette, Kenny Rogers, Sarah Ferguson (The Duchess of York), Mark Ballas (Dancing with the Stars), Shawn Johnson (Olympic Gold Medalist and Dancing with the Stars contestant), Gary Sinise, Buzz Aldrin, Amy Pietz (Caroline in the City), Delta Burke (Designing Women), Randy Jackson (American Idol), Senator Mark Kirk, Sean Giambrone (The Goldbergs), Steven Yeun (The Walking Dead)
Let’s Talk
Interested in discussing a project?
Whether it's a commercial, webcast, industrial shoot, film, or corporate stage event—I’ve done them all.
Planning a wedding and need ideas?
I’d love to help you bring your vision to life.
Curious about personal makeup classes?
Let’s chat and see what works for you.
Feel free to type a message—I’ll get back to you quickly. You can also give me a call!
Nancy Vela
Phone: (773) 450-8733

