New Berlin woman launched face-painting business

New Berlin — What child doesn't like to have their face painted?

Annette Durfee's three daughters love having their faces painted. And in the past few years, Durfee had plenty of practice painting the faces of not only her daughters, but also their friends.

Following her oldest daughter's birthday party in which Durfee painted the faces of the children in attendance, a family friend suggested she take her skill for face painting and make a business of it. After researching online the business side of face painting, she took the advice, and in April launched Faces to Follow from her home in New Berlin.

"It's been very well received," Durfee said. "We've done birthday parties, community events, and even a corporate event in Chicago. It's been a pleasant experience so far."

Safety is a key aspect that Durfee follows with every painted face. She uses only professional, FDA-compliant, cosmetic grade, water-based face paints, makeup and glitter specifically designed to be used on skin. She said acrylic-based paints that are used in arts and crafts aren't designed for contact with skin, and can lead to rashes and other problems. Additionally, she washes and sterilizes all brushes and sponges after each painted face to further maximize safety.

Since starting Faces to Follow, Durfee, who also works part time in home health care, said the business has steadily grown through word-of-mouth reviews. Each month she's averaging three to four events. In addition to birthday parties and corporate events, she paints faces at princess parties, holiday parties, other children's events, family fun nights and company picnics. She even painted faces recently at her daughter's school during an event at Hoover Elementary School in New Berlin - where she has become known as the Face Painting Lady.

"For me the best part is seeing the kids' reactions when they look at themselves in the mirror," Durfee said. "They can't believe it's them - they're just beaming."

Durfee's clientele comes generally from Southeast Wisconsin, but she will travel outside the area.

FYI

NAME: Faces to Follow

WEBSITE: facestofollow.com

PHONE: (414) 870-0210

E-MAIL: facestofollow.com">Annette@facestofollow.com