“I’ve moved around a lot in my life…. from a very small town in Northern NY to Albany, NY; Chicago, IL… and Clearwater, FL. I tend to get bored easily and move around a lot — always searching for somewhere to inspire me and feel like home. Out of all the places I’ve lived, I’m proud to say Rochester is by FAR my favorite! I’ve lived here for going on 5 years now… the longest I’ve ever lived in one spot! The people who live here are so proud to be here and it’s so warming to my heart to see the pride and love everyone shares for this amazing city! Even though it’s a fairly large area, it still has that small-town feel to it, which I adore. I’m a professional makeup artist here, and the amount of creative individuals that I have been blessed to know and work with outshines any other place I’ve ever lived or worked. There is SO much talent and creativity in this city — from your local artists, fashion designers, models, makeup artists, hair stylists, photographers and writers/bloggers (just to name a few!).

“Some of my favorite places to go/do are shop at all the local boutiques! We have some of the most amazing, high fashion, on-trend boutiques that carry the most unique items from clothing, shoes, jewelry, purses, hats, etc., that you can not find anywhere else! All of the local boutique owners are the nicest and sweetest people you will ever meet… and you can tell they absolutely LOVE what they do! I also love going to some of the local fashion shows that go on here… and have been honored to do makeup for quite a few of the shows! I also love all of the cute little local coffee shops and cafés that have some of the most amazing drinks and foods. One of my favorite things to do is discover new little places! Every time I have a lunch or coffee meeting with someone, I try to pick somewhere I’ve never been — I feel like the choices are endless!”

—Laurie Berry, East Irondequoit
The Upstate Stylista