Meet Stephanie Sands

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Sands and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose an artistic career because it’s the truest way I know to connect with myself and with others. Art allows me to express what words alone can’t: emotion, transformation, beauty, and truth. I’ve always been drawn to the details that others might overlook, the colors, the energy, the feeling behind a face or a moment. Being an artist gives me the chance to make people feel seen, understood, and beautiful. It’s not just what I do — it’s how I move through the world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My background is a little unconventional, and I think that’s what makes my work unique. I actually began in voice performance and fell in love with the backstage world of beauty. That passion led me to study film and photographic makeup, as well as esthetics. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work on movie sets, music videos, fashion shows, photography sessions, and countless bridal transformations. Each of those experiences has shaped the artist and educator I am today.

Currently, I work in education and sales with Christian Dior, Ilia Beauty, and DIBS. I’ve developed a deep love for color analysis because it beautifully ties into my makeup lessons, helping women simplify their routines and see themselves in a new, empowered light. Color is powerful; it speaks to us in ways we don’t always recognize, and it can truly transform how we feel in our skin.

My journey has been layered, creative, and full of growth. What I want people to know about my story is that artistry isn’t just about products. It’s about connection, confidence, and helping others see their own beauty more clearly.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, I’d definitely start by taking them to downtown Fort Collins . it has some of the most charming shops and vibrant energy. One of my absolute favorites is Wear It Again, Sam, a vintage boutique that’s perfect for anyone who loves style with personality. For brunch, we’d head to The Silver Grill or Urban Egg, you really can’t go wrong with either. If the weather’s nice, we’d go for a scenic drive up the Poudre Canyon or spend time at Horsetooth Reservoir. Both are stunning and uniquely Colorado. Fort Collins has so many amazing hidden gems, and I love showing them off whenever I get the chance!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
If I had to dedicate anything, it would absolutely be to my two children. They are the heartbeat behind everything I do and my biggest inspiration, and the reason I work as hard as I do. I also want to give credit to my parents, who gave me the freedom and support to discover my creative path. Their encouragement, along with the influence of legendary makeup artists like Kevyn Aucoin and Bobbi Brown, helped shape my early passion for beauty. To the incredible color analysts I’ve had the privilege of learning from throughout my life, thank you for deepening my understanding of color and helping me see how powerfully it connects to identity and self-expression.

Instagram: @colorworkstudio

Image Credits
Tori Aaker
Lisa Gullo