Three of us got a Living Social deal for a facial plus makeup lesson. (I added a chemical peel.) One of the three of us is engaged and she wanted to see what he'd recommend but we all wanted to freshen up our makeup colors. Getting a hand and foot treatment was a nice surprise as well (maybe it was on the deal but we didn't see it if it was). I have to say from start to finish that everything was absolutely wonderful. Steven and Amber were professional but made us feel like friends. Amber set space aside for the wine and a charcuterie trays we had brought with us. She even provided forks and napkins when we realized we had forgotten them. We had an amazing time but we also learned a lot of things about makeup and makeup techniques that we didn't know. We all left with a sheet listing all of our colors and how to apply the makeup to each part of our face. Steven explains every step clearly and concisely. None of us are makeup girls so when he dispelled a lot of common makeup myths for us that was really valuable. He sells most of what he uses but we didn't feel pressured to purchase or like we were getting a sales pitch at all. He even told us which products had double purposes and which were unnecessary. We all loved this experience and the bride even booked her makeup for the day of the wedding! Tip: You can park on the street. You enter by going to the back of the house and the salon is in a small building in the back. You enter the salon by going through the black gate. read more

The best in town for sure. Steven did my make up for my wedding in 2005, I just recommended him to a longtime client of mine, and he went above and beyond! read more

I bought a Bloomspot coupon for a 60 minute makeup lesson which was $35 for $81. I definitely did not enjoy this experience, and I greatly regret purchasing this Bloomspot deal. Steven was very rude and I did not enjoy coming here. I made an appointment for Friday. I was in a meeting that ran over on Friday and had to call last minute to tell him that I would be late. When I got out of the meeting, I called him from my car before I left to tell him that I would be running late. He yelled at me over the phone, said he would not reschedule my appointment and that I could either go there late and receive half the time I paid for or get nothing. He said the Bloomspot deal was heavily discounted and rescheduling last minute was not an option. I opted for rushing to the salon and getting half the time. I was in the energy corridor and drove as fast as I could to get to the salon off of Kirby. When I arrived, I was very upset, crying and didn't even feel like getting a makeup lesson. He decided he would reschedule my appointment for another day. I would advise that you arrive early or cancel 24 hours in advance because he is very unforgiving when in comes to rescheduling last minute. I went back again today for my appointment and he was finishing up with a customer. I was on my phone while I waited and to catch my attention to fill out a paper information form, he sounded annoyed and asked "hey you, texting, can you fill this out?" After I filled out the form, he did my makeup. I told him I wore neutrals and he seemed impatient when I was trying to think of colors in my closet other than white, black, and blue. He applied foundation, navy blue eyeshadow, liner, filled in my eyebrows, lined my lips, and applied gloss. The makeup was very different from what I'm used to. He asked if I liked it and I said although I like a red lip, the shade of red was a little darker than I was used to. My favorite shade right now is Loreal Infallable Le Gloss in Red Fatale which is a very bright and vibrant red. I also told him that I'm used to more natural eye colors like brown and he seemed offended and said brown was boring. I had my eyes done at MAC with a brown eyeshadow for my formal and it was free and much better than the service I received here. I would not recommend this place. read more

Steven Merrill Studio - Makeover chart - Makeup Artists Near Me - Houston, Texas

I enjoyed my full facial and make-up lesson with Steven. He was friendly, knowledgeable and the whole experience was pleasant and relaxing. I wish I had found him sooner as I am leaving Houston in a few weeks :( I got the full facial which consisted of steaming, extractions, mask and more. A hand and foot massage was included which was lovely. I got my eyebrows tweezed and they turned out beautifully. I have trouble finding places that will tweeze eyebrows (wax makes my face break out and my skin is too sensitive for threading). I was weary of the make-up lesson as I don't wear much make-up. But it was fun, I learned a few things and I bought a couple products (though by no means did I feel pressured to do so) that I am excited to try out. read more

Steven Merrill Studio - Love the natural look after Steven did my make-up! - Makeup Artists Near Me - Houston, Texas

Consistent cut and color that always looked great. I need to get back here after moving too far away

From the moment you are called to confirm your appointment and speak to Amber to your greeting when you walk in The Studio you feel pampered. When I arrived I was explained everything and made to feel comfortable and it has a feeling of such peace and serenity. Steve is smart, funny, professional and his leg massages were amazing. We previously discussed what kind of look I was looking for and he knew his stuff for sure. His instruction was done slowly and everything was explained and I was given step by step instructions to help me replicate the look at home as well. The products were gentle and didn't leave my skin feeling like a mask. A wonderful homey establishment that is really a hidden jewel in the Upper Kirby District. read more

Worth at least 4 times what you pay! This guy is great , professional , knowledgeable , and hard working! I can understand from what others write about the time. I was not late to the appointment , but he utilized every minute of my two hours. read more

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Met Steven when I used a groupon last year! Will never use anyone else. I drive over an hour to get there from Magnolia Tx! He knows what he is doing and always does his best to get you in when needed. Makeup tips are great. Sells the products right in salon! He has years of great experience! Easy to get to location! read more

I came across the Steven Merrill Studio through a Groupon and decided to treat myself. So glad I did! The facial was wonderful and Steven did a wonderful job giving some tips on improving my skin (hydration, hydration, hydration!). The makeover was fun and a great learning experience. I highly recommend making an appointment. I plan on coming back again! read more

Part of me was apprehensive to go to Steven, since I am not a big believer in spending too much time on aesthetics (read: I am a make-up novice and was out of my league). Steven was lovely; not judgmental or dismissive, very personable and pleasant, and he put me at ease immediately. He is very informative and I really felt like I would be able to follow his plan once I got home. His assistant was also very pleasant and helpful. Excellent customer service and a great experience. read more

Purchased the makeup lesson with two follow ups. I highly suggest this. My make up routine need some refining and Steven's updates were perfect. High quality products that stay put. He has a positive attitude and was great to work with. read more

my boyfriend surprised me with a groupon for a facial, organic peel and makeover...he paid $69 for the deal, which retails for about $180 from the first phone call with amber (steven's assistant) to my appointment with steven, they took good care of me..I can't wait to go back! amber was very helpful with scheduling my appointment, even offering to put me on a wait list for any Saturday openings parking is on the street or anywhere around the block..the salon is in the back of the house through the back gate my appointment was a dream...I loved the music playing and the charm of the salon..for my facial and peel, steven explained everything beforehand and made me feel super comfortable...I love the products he used, especially the microdermabrasion cream (it really exfoliates!) the makeover was fun..steven showed me so many new ways to apply makeup..I especially loved the contouring lesson steven creates a customized look for you and puts it all together for you on paper (colors used, brushes, etc), so you can refer back to it anytime...there's no pressure to buy anything...but how can u not? everything is top notch and looks great on you! read more

Wonderful experience!! I was making many changes in my life and needed help with boosting my appearance. I made an appointment at the studio and was nervous not knowing what to expect, but was so pleased to meet Steve!! He has a fantastic personality and disposition, provides a comfortable studio, is a great teacher and knows how to help you make the most of your own assetts!! He taught me so much and I plan on continuing to return to studio for products and tips. Highly recommend!! read more

I had my first visit with Steven Merrill yesterday and loved it! His studio is comfortable, his assistant, Amber, was helpful, and I felt welcome. I have had many facials, but this was among the best. It also included massaging and softening hands and feet and then letting the product work into the skin via heated gloves. He was very conscious of my comfort and asked often if anything was uncomfortable for me. This was my first make-up by a professional. Both were wonderful. Steven is knowledgable, cordial, and shares his knowledge with his clients. He answered all of my questions, and we got along very well. I left feeling that he did an excellent job and that I could repeat the make-up that he did (OK, maybe with some practice). I showed him some of the makeup that I currently use, and he advised that some items were good colors for me and others not so much. I trust his judgment and will no longer use the lipsticks he did not recommend. He has so many products, both for skin and make-up, as well as utensils (brushes, etc.), and all are available to his clients; I could purchase any of the products, including make-up, that he used on my face. I recommend Steven for a wonderful facial and an excellent make-over. He is definitely a pro. read more

I bought a facial and makeup lesson for my friend for her birthday and decided to treat myself as well. The facial was great and the makeup lesson was informative. He explained each step an I learned some extremely useful tips on concealing under eye bags and applying a smoky eye look. Steven was really nice and has a good sense of humor. His assistant was super friendly as well. I would recommend him. read more

Steven was fantastic! Great facial! Great advice! Makeup tutorial I actually learned a lot! You need to get here asap! Steven is wonderful. Very relaxed environment! read more

Steven is absolutely awesome. With over twenty years of experience, he knows exactly what he's doing and does a gorgeous job, every single time. He's incredibly kind, patient, and listens to the details to make sure what he does is in line with the expectation I had walking in the door. #makeupmaster read more

It's a little hard to give a 5 star rating to anyone, but easy to do so for Steven. I have used this studio since I moved to the Houston area more than two years ago. I feel very fortunate to have been introduced to Steven Merrill Studio through Living Social and have gone faithfully every three weeks since. I first bought a facial and make-up application for my 16 year old daughter. I thought it would be helpful for her to learn about skin care and appropriate make-up use. I fully expected this would be a "one & done" since the drive is over an hour for me. But after just a few minutes I realized I got much more than I bargained for - even if I had paid the full price at that first visit! His skill and demeanor cause me to continue to return. There is no doubt of Steven's expertise in make-up, nor his skills at hair. He was equally proficient at listening to and teaching my daughter as he has been at listening to and teaching me. I think one of the great intangibles Steven possesses is the ability to determine the appropriateness of cosmetics and hairstyle or color for each individual client. I nearly always get compliments from strangers when I leave the salon - what better testimony is there?! I enjoy the comfort and intimacy of the salon, and I have found Steven and his staff to be gracious and accommodating. Imagine spending time visiting with old friends who just happen to be world-class at helping you look your very best. That's what I find at Steven Merrill Studios. read more

I love it! This was my best groupon ever! The facial + massage was very nice and relaxing. The make up class was very informative and helpful. The service in general was also 5 stars read more

Bought a Groupon and made an appointment with Amber, Steve's receptionist. Amber is very delightful, friendly, and does a great job. Steve runs his business behind his home in a separate studio space. He cuts, styles, and colors hair in addition to makeup and facials, but I think makeup is his passion. He has been in business for many years and even worked in Paris doing makeup for runway models. I purchased a facial and makeup lesson. Personally, I didn't care for his facial because he was a little vigorous on my face, but the foot and leg massage was great! Next was my makeup lesson and I think this is where Steve really shines! I learned some new techniques on how to apply my makeup and I looked beautiful afterwards! He is very talented and picks out just the right colors. If you have a special event to attend and need a makeup person, he is definitely the one you want to go to! On another note, Steve is a funny, friendly, witty, and knowledgable guy. I had a great time talking and laughing with him. He is a one person show and when you are there, you are the only one he is working with. Keeping that in mind, you should arrive on time. When you don't show or when you are late (Karen, previous reviewer), it hurts Steve's business. He books clients one appointment right after another and doesn't juggle several at one time. Another thing I really appreciated about Steve is that he doesn't try to sell you a lot of useless products. He is honest and straightforward and I plan on returning again soon! read more

I highly recommend Steven Merrill! I received a facial/massage and makeup lesson for Steven Merrill and went right before Christmas. From start to finish, Steven was polite, professional, and never rushed my services. He made sure I was happy! Clearly, he loved what he does and it shows! What a great experience! I learned a lot and will definitely be back for more! Steven was very educated on all products used (which he also sells). I've been using his products for 2 weeks now and loooove them! Thanks Steven! read more

Found Steven through Groupon, booked a facial and makeover, and it was fabulous! Steven is extremely professional and considerate of the customer's experience. He gave detailed instructions on the phone on how to find his studio, made sure to take his time with me since his previous client's appointment ran a little late, and did not push products on me that I did not need and were above my skill level to use. This is not a Sephora; Steven has a vast amount of knowledge working in the industry and the look and tips he gives you are more "timeless" versus "trendy." I learned a lot from the makeup lesson and will do my best in practicing on my own to improve. Today was my birthday and I received many compliments as I am sure I looked better than I would have before the lesson. Thanks, Steven! read more

With a Groupon coupon for an organic peel and make-over, I scheduled a back-to-back appointment for my daughter and myself. What a treat! Relaxing and enjoyable, Steven is low-key, has a great sense of humor, and a natural teaching instinct. During the facial cleansing, he explained the types of creams and cleansers he was using and why it would suit my particular skin type (oily with a tendency toward blackheads). The make-up session was done jointly with my daughter and me watching each other while Steven applied the make-up and explained how and why at each step. With the goal that we should be able to apply our make up at home with a degree of confidence, Steven provided each of us with a Makeover Chart, complete with the colors he used for eyes, face and lips. What I appreciated most was that he offers all of the make-up and cleansing creams for puchase (at a Groupon discount) but there's no pressure to buy. In fact, he was emphatic that we should only consider buying those products that we would definitely use. I typically wear very little make up, but Steven showed me how, with a little effort, makeup can actually light up my face and make me look more energetic (i.e., eyes more defined, less sagging appearance under the eyes) and he offered some good tips to avoid that "mask" look. For my daughter and me, we had a wonderful day sharing a unique and enjoyable experience together. read more

I was wanting a new look for 60, and did not want to go to the department store counter again. So I googled makeup and Steven Merrill's name came up. I called and got an appointment for the next day. Amber, his office personnel was warm and friendly upon my arrival. Steven Merrill was hands on the minute he came into studio. I was made to feel totally relaxed and welcomed. I had a facial, which included a hand and foot treatment. Steven prepped my color chart in between. The makeup session was absolutely fantastic! He taught me so much and was so thorough in explaining colors and contours. I purchased his products along with the items that come in the package. I did what he taught me the next day for work, and it was as easy as he told me it would be! My boss even noticed the change. I will definitely be going back. read more

I had an excellent experience here and would highly recommend it. I went to Steven Merrill for a facial, organic peel, and makeup lesson, which was offered as a Groupon deal. Steven Merrill is very talented and friendly, and offered lots of tips, tricks, and suggestions for skincare and makeup. I admit to being somewhat of a makeup novice, and he was very patient and clear in explaining different things I could do to accentuate my features. I could definitely tell that he takes pride in his work and enjoys it immensely. He's also great about keeping up with current trends and being proactive in helping his customers keep up, too. Steven Merrill is definitely worth a visit, either with a Groupon or at full price. read more

I recently went to Steven for a long overdue facial and make-up update. Not only was my "makeover" quite lovely/fresh and natural-looking (as I prefer), but it was a fun and pleasurable 2 hours with an incredibly skilled and entertaining artist! The results peeled away the years, and I collected many compliments from friends I ran into after I left. Steven takes his time, listens to his clients, instructs you in all the products and techniques he is using and makes professional recommendations without pressure to buy. But who wouldn't if it effortlessly takes ten years off you! I highly recommend this studio - in fact, I wouldn't go anywhere else... read more

While I had a nice experience with setting the appointment and interacting with Steven Merrill himself, my skin had an adverse reaction to both the facial and the products I purchased. I don't have sensitive skin but for 11 days after the visit and using the vitamin c facial cleanser and bleaching cream, my face was disgustingly flakey and blotchy red. I don't recommend either of those products. I was forced to go to the Shiseido counter to clear up my skin. It was pretty embarrassing dealing with my clients and colleagues while experiencing this. Nice guy but even the $90 brush set I purchased was falling apart shortly after my visit. Try the place out for yourself but I do not recommend the products at all. read more

Getting married? Special event? This is the place to go....I first went with a groupon for facial and makeover.....was I ever impressed! Usually a "tomboy" sort, I was very pleased with the finished, natural and beautiful makeover. Next time I have a special event, and don't want to leave anything to chance, I'm calling Steven!! read more