Check Out Lala Sarkisian’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lala Sarkisian

Hi Lala, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
From the moment my uncle took me to a Van Gogh exhibit at the age of 10, I was fascinated by all things related to art, color, and composition. That experience ignited my passion for creativity. I spent a lot of my free time drawing, coloring, and immersing myself in art, eventually taking any art class I could all the way through college.

While in college, I faced the challenge of choosing a career path. Growing up in an immigrant household, traditional professions like medicine or law were more encouraged than creative pursuits. Art was my passion, but it wasn’t the path my family had envisioned for me.

During this time my creativity revealed an unexpected talent for makeup.

Then, a family tragedy struck and completely altered the trajectory of my life. I had to pivot quickly and think of a way to support myself. I thought, “What if I could swap sketchbooks for faces?” That idea led me to start doing makeup as a way to make extra money on weekends. I hit the ground running, and before I knew it, my side hustle had become my main hustle.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
For about 10 years, I balanced a full-time job alongside my makeup business to stay afloat. There were days when I’d start my morning at the studio, work on a client, rush to the office for a full eight-hour workday, only to return to the studio in the evening to see more clients. I was pushing 50-60 hour workweeks with no days off for months at a time.

It was exhausting, and I was slowly burning out. So I decided to take a chance on myself and quit my day job.

The jump is the scariest part-then you fly!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a professional makeup artist and licensed esthetician with a passion for creating beautiful looks tailored to each client. I love to envisioning the entire look, considering everything from what they’ll be wearing to the occasion, their personality, and unique features. Whether it’s bridal makeup, photoshoots, or special events, I love using my craft to create a polished overall final look.

In addition to makeup artistry, I offer lash lifts, brow laminations, and personalized makeup classes, empowering clients to embrace and enhance their features with confidence.

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
With Christmas around the corner, I’ve been reflecting on how magical my mom always made the holidays. She would have these crazy ideas for themed gift wrapping and over the top decor around the house. I remember going with her to craft stores to pick out linen, ribbons, paint, etc. until we brought the vision to life. Those moments of creating together are some of my favorite childhood memories—they were filled with imagination and love.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ooohlalamakeup