Meet Monique Carrillo of West Covina

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique Carrillo.

Hi Monique, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve loved beauty for as long as I can remember. In high school, doing my own makeup became more than just a routine, it was my escape, my creative outlet, and a way to express who I was when I didn’t always know how to put it into words. I remember sitting in my room for hours, watching OG makeup gurus on YouTube, pausing and replaying videos while practicing over and over again.

I was also deeply inspired by the artists at my local MAC store. Every time I saw a MAC artist working in person, I remember thinking, I want to be that good one day. That inspiration fueled my dedication, and I practiced every single day, eventually gaining the confidence to share my looks and tutorials on social media.

What started as a quiet passion slowly grew into a career that changed my life. Through makeup, I found my confidence, my voice, and a sense of purpose. Today, I’m incredibly grateful to do what I love, creating meaningful connections and helping others feel seen, confident, and beautiful. Just as I once hoped to feel myself!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I would be lying if I said it’s been a smooth road. The journey to get where I am today has been anything but easy. In the beginning, I was juggling two jobs while working and assisting as a makeup artist on weekends, doing everything I could to build my experience and grow my career.

Starting out as a new makeup artist in Los Angeles was especially challenging. LA is filled with incredibly talented artists, and trying to find my place in such a competitive industry often felt overwhelming. Still, I made a promise to myself to never let a negative mindset take over. Instead, I chose to stay inspired and use every challenge as fuel to grow, not only as an artist, but as a person.

There were moments during slow seasons, times I was passed over by potential brides or clients, and even periods where I struggled creatively and questioned whether this path was truly meant for me. But through every setback, I learned that growth often comes from discomfort. I taught myself to keep going, to hustle harder, and to trust my vision even when things felt uncertain.

Those early struggles shaped me into the passionate, resilient, and driven makeup artist I am today. Because of that journey, I deeply appreciate every client, every opportunity, and every moment I get to do what I love.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a professional makeup artist and creative with over 10 years of experience in the beauty industry. I specialize in bridal, special event, and photoshoot makeup, as well as custom spray tanning tailored to all skin tones. My work focuses on enhancing natural beauty while still allowing space for artistry, individuality, and confidence.

I’m known for my attention to detail, my ability to make clients feel comfortable and seen, and my commitment to creating looks that photograph beautifully and last. What I’m most proud of is building my own brand through passion, consistency, and genuine connection with my clients. I take pride in being inclusive, adaptable, and constantly evolving. Whether I’m working one-on-one with a bride or collaborating on creative projects.

What sets me apart is my personalized approach. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all beauty. Every face, skin tone, and moment is different, and I treat each client and project with that same level of care and intention.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something that actually surprises most people is that I’m very shy and naturally introverted. Connecting and putting myself out there didn’t always come easily to me. Building my business and working closely with incredible clients has definitely pushed me outside of my comfort zone in the best way! Working closely with clients, sharing my work, and trusting myself in unfamiliar spaces slowly helped me come out of my shell. Each experience taught me a little more confidence, not just in my work, but in who I am. That personal growth has been deeply meaningful to me, and it’s something I carry with me just as much as my professional accomplishments.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://uniquemoniquee.as.me/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_uniquemoniquee_?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr