Meet Mariana Flores of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariana Flores.

Hi Mariana, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My passion for beauty started back in high school when I’d do my friends’ hair and makeup just for fun. What began as a hobby quickly turned into something more. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but when people began telling me I should actually pursue it as a career, it really clicked. Even though I went to college, I knew deep down that makeup was what lit me up the most. So after graduating, I decided to go all in. I took professional courses in Miami and Texas, and had the opportunity to learn from top names in the industry when I moved to Los Angeles. That experience really shaped me—not just technically, but in understanding the power of this craft. What keeps me going is knowing I’m helping people feel like the most confident version of themselves—it’s more than just makeup, it’s a transformation.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No path is ever completely smooth, but I’ve learned that every setback is an opportunity to grow. Mistakes aren’t failures—they’re lessons, and they’ve fueled my motivation to keep pushing forward. I truly believe that with hard work and discipline, you can achieve anything. Being in the beauty industry, especially as a makeup artist, means stepping into a highly competitive space where you constantly have to put yourself out there. But I’ve never seen that as a burden—because this is my passion.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a professional makeup artist with experience across a wide range of styles—including Bridal, Red Carpet, and Editorial looks. One of the highlights of my career was assisting celebrity makeup artists in the industry. Thanks to that, I was able to be a part of a lot of exciting projects. It was an unforgettable experience that not only challenged me creatively but helped sharpen my skills in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. What truly sets me apart is my ability to connect with clients on a personal level and make them feel at ease. I believe makeup isn’t just about technique—it’s also about the energy you bring to the room. My goal is to create an experience that feels collaborative, where clients feel heard, seen, and fully confident that I understand their vision. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the final look—it’s about how you make someone feel throughout the process.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was always artistic and drawn to creative expression. Art was my favorite subject in school, and I found constant inspiration in my mother, who is an incredibly talented painter. At the same time, I was captivated by the world of beauty. In my hometown in Mexico, there has always been a strong emphasis on self-presentation—whether through makeup, hair, or fashion—and that environment deeply influenced me. Personality-wise, I was outgoing and curious. I loved meeting new people and forming connections, and that openness naturally evolved into a strength in building relationships and creating a supportive community, both in my personal life and eventually in my professional career.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.marmakeup.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marmua/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@marianamua

Image Credits
Suzzette Labra- @es.photography.la
Chris Cruz – @chriscruzphoto
Leyla Stefani – @leyla.stefani
Kevin Ostajewski – @kevinostaj
Kat Borchart – @kat_borchart
Sarah Krick – @sarahkrickphotography