Conversations with Katrina Brcic

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Brcic.

Katrina , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I first experienced permanent makeup back in 2005, when I had my brows done. At the time, it felt like such a small change, but it made a profound difference. I’ve always had very fine hair (on my head and in my brows), and before that, I spent every day penciling them in, trying to create something that wasn’t naturally there. Without them, I felt like a blank canvas. Having my brows done gave me a sense of ease and confidence I hadn’t known before – it simplified my routine, but more importantly, it shifted how I saw myself.

That experience stayed with me for years. It planted a seed.

In 2017, after recently moving to California and coming from a background in interior design, I felt ready for a change. I was drawn back to that moment – to the impact something so subtle could have on how someone feels. I decided to pursue permanent makeup, but I was starting from scratch in the beauty industry. I knew that if I was going to do this, I wanted to do it thoroughly. I searched for the most comprehensive training I could find, immersed myself in education, and worked on as many models as possible to build both skill and confidence.

What began as a personal transformation slowly became a calling…and that’s what led me to where I am today.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but the challenges have shaped so much of who I am in this industry. When I started my business, I was new to Orange County, and I did not know many people. Building a client base from nothing was one of the biggest challenges. Finding models, meeting people, and simply getting my name out there took real effort and consistency. Unlike industries like hair or nails, where clients return every few weeks, permanent makeup is different. Clients may only come back every couple of years for a touch-up, which means you are always in a position of needing to connect with new people and grow your audience. That requires you to consistently put yourself out there. For me personally, that was a stretch. I tend to be more introverted by nature, so stepping into a space where I had to promote myself, network, and be visible did not always come naturally. It taught me resilience and pushed me to grow in ways I did not expect. There was not one major obstacle – it was more about showing up again and again, even when it felt uncomfortable. Over time, that consistency really paid off.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in soft, natural-looking permanent makeup that enhances rather than overpowers, with treatments including powder brow design, eyeliner enhancement, lip blush, and 3D Areola tattooing. My goal is always to create something that feels effortless and timeless, whether that is brows or lip blush. I want my clients to look like themselves, just more polished and confident. I am known for my approach to subtlety. I do not believe in going too dark or too bold, because permanent makeup should age gracefully over time. The way pigment heals and fades is just as important as how it looks on day one, so I focus on choosing the right tones and techniques to ensure the results stay soft and flattering as the years go on.

What I am most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. Many of them come in feeling unsure or nervous, and being able to guide them through the process and give them something that simplifies their daily routine while boosting their confidence is incredibly rewarding.

What sets me apart is both my eye and my intention. Coming from a background in interior design, I have a strong sense of balance, proportion, and detail, which naturally translates into my work. I also take a very personalized approach with each client. No two faces are the same, and I believe the work should reflect that. It is not about following trends, but about creating something that truly suits the individual and stands the test of time.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is creating work that feels authentic to the person wearing it. I want my clients to still look like themselves, just more refined and confident. It is never about changing someone’s features, but about enhancing what is already there in a way that feels natural and timeless.

Beyond the results, the experience matters just as much. I want my clients to feel comfortable and heard in the process. There is a lot of trust involved in this kind of work, and I take that very seriously.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.liftpermanentmakeup.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lift_permanent_makeup/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liftpermanentmakeup?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lift-dana-point?osq=Permanent+Makeup&override_cta=Request+an+appointment