Taraji P. Henson and her makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff are out on date. To the 2016 Emmys, that is. As Henson’s makeup artist both onscreen and off, it’s no surprise that the two have grown close—in fact, they started as friends. And what’s better than taking your bestie to one of the biggest award ceremonies of the year? “It takes a village to get red-carpet ready for big award shows,” says Sheriff. “The Emmys is certainly no exception.” To commemorate the night, Sheriff created an exclusive photo diary for ELLECanada.com, below. 

8:00 AM

Lash application by Mahae from Damone Roberts, Beverly Hills. 

 

9:15 AM

Mistey Saffore of Sashay Wax arrives to get Taraji smooth and hair free for her Vera Wang gown. At 10:00 am, Damone Roberts arrives to get Taraji’s brows red-carpet ready. 

 

11:00 AM

My magic station set up began. Kate Somerville provided me with some amazing skincare products, and DermaFlash is my secret weapon to achieve flawless makeup. It’s the highest at home exfoliation you can achieve, plus it removes peach fuzz allowing skincare products works even better. 

 

Nails are in progress as well, with Malka. Taraji’s stylist, Jason Bolden wanted a neutral tone.

 

12:00 PM

A little celebratory Cristol Rose Champagne with the team 🙂 

 

12:15 PM

Hairstylist to the stars Kim Kimble arrives and gets set up. Amazing tools are needed to get red carpet ready! 

 

1:00 PM

I begin to prep skin with Kate Somerville eye balm. It is amazing to decrease puffiness. Perfect Blend Dual Stick Foundation by Ashunta Sheriff is my base of choice, and we used “Taraji Glow” from Taraji’s M.A.C collection.

 

2:00 PM

Our girl is red-carpet ready in custom Vera Wang and jewels by Lorraine Schwartz. Final touches with Taraji’s signature lipstick colour “Strip Me Down,” from M.A.C Cosmetics. T (my nickname for her) is on fire!

 

3:00 PM

In the car with her best friend, Tracie Jenkins, and myself. Taraji is off to the red carpet!