Today we’d like to introduce you to Elysa Quintella.
Hi Elysa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
It’s funny – I never really intended on having a career in beauty! Although I found a love for makeup in high school, I never considered going down that path until years later. Originally, I wanted to be a wardrobe stylist, so I began majoring in fashion in college. While in the fashion program at Sacramento State, I would often volunteer backstage at fashion shows and local events and unexpectedly fell into modeling for a short while. One day, while I was backstage getting my hair and makeup done at a fashion show, I remember looking at the makeup artist’s station and it just clicked that I wanted to be a makeup artist! That was in 2015, by the way, so this year marks my 10th anniversary in the beauty industry!
Since then, I’ve worked primarily in beauty, editorial and commercial production. I also have a huge love for musical theater and have worked backstage on several theatrical productions. Most of my jobs are here in Northern California, but I do enjoy when work takes me to LA! I actually spent some time in Burbank when I completed a 3-week long hairstyling course at Makeup Designory back in 2021. I really enjoyed my time there!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I think that embarking on a creative/entrepreneurial path naturally comes with its own unique set of challenges. There truly is no roadmap for this profession, which is part of what makes it fun but also challenging. The biggest struggle is the lack of consistency. You might be extremely busy for 3 weeks in a row, and then suddenly…nothing. Or be on hold for a job only to be told you’re no longer needed. It can get tough. In those moments, I think it’s important to always remember your “why” and use that as fuel to keep pushing through.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I do makeup for beauty, editorial and commercial production. When it comes to my artistry, I love soft, sophisticated makeup that enhances my client’s features. I’m proud that I cater to a diverse clientele – everyone is welcome in my chair! ❤️
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Attend as many networking events as you can. For me, I’ve found great value in specifically attending industry tradeshows (The Makeup Show is my favorite!) It’s a great way to meet artists that you look up to.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elysaquintella.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elysaquintella
Image Credits
Headshots by Deena Lyon (@lyonportrait)
Behind the scenes photos by Ricky Coronado (@rickylenss)
