Lisa Eldridge almost missed the letter that confirmed she was receiving a New Year’s Honour.
It sat, unopened, in a pile of mail until the very last day she had to accept it.
“I am terrible with my post and I was really surprised, because I am really bad at opening my mail, so I hadn't actually opened the letter actually, because I wasn't expecting anything like that.”
"I was supposed to go to New York for a job at the Gothic Film Festival, but the celebrity I was set to work with got sick at the last minute, so the trip was cancelled.
“On that Saturday, I decided to open my mail. Most of it was junk, but then I came across this letter. I thought, 'wow, this looks official’.”
Eldridge says she felt a warm sense of gratitude as she opened the letter, appreciating the recognition.
“It is such a great feeling to be acknowledged within the industry, especially by peers and people you admire.
“To be recognised for both fashion and beauty is so rewarding, especially after spending decades carving my path.'"
From her early days as a make-up artist working backstage at fashion weeks to becoming one of the most trusted names in beauty, Eldridge has built a career based on skill, knowledge and an unwavering dedication to her craft.
But she has never been interested in chasing fame or trends.
“I have always been more into the artistry of it than the hype,” she says. “That is what has always driven me.”
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