Conversations with Elena Zamora

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Zamora.

Hello! My name is Elena Zamora. I’m a Certified Professional Makeup Artist in the South Bay. I’m from Long Beach but have lived the majority of my life in Carson. My first memory of makeup is watching my mom get ready with music playing. I remember wanting to wear lipstick too but obviously wasn’t allowed to. I was raised in a traditional Mexican household and wasn’t allowed to wear makeup until i turned 15. I first started doing makeup in high school. I went to school on Day of the Dead for my senior year with half of it painted like a sugar skull. Unfortunately, I was sent to the principal’s office. I told them I didn’t see what was wrong with me being proud and celebrating a very special day for my culture. Other students appreciated it and that’s how I got my very first client. I was 17 when I got hired to paint a couple like a sugar skull. I remember I was so excited that someone actually wanted to pay me to paint them. I remember feeling so happy doing their makeup and the look on their faces when they saw the finished look. That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue a career as a makeup artist. I got hired at Party City for seasonal a year after to specifically do my sfx makeup while on the job. I got Certified in 2018 and started taking clients. I’ve done Pregnancy Photoshoots, Bridal Glam, Quinceñeras, Prom, Graduation Photoshoots, Baby Shower Glam, Natural Glam & Special Effects Makeup. In 2020 I started my own cosmetics line, Crystal Moon Cosmetics. However, I had to put a pause on that project & close for a moment. I wanted to expand the beauty services I could offer to my clients. That brings me to my most recent beauty service, Gel-X Nails.

I’ve definitely had bumps along the way in my career. I’d be lying if I’d say it was smooth sailing. Some examples are; slow seasons, the pandemic and car issues. At the end of the day, I’m not alone with these issues because I have a good support system. My husband & family (both husband’s & mine) always have my back and try their best to help find a solution. I’m very grateful. However, I’m also grateful for each obstacle I had throughout my journey. Each one helped me appreciate what I have and how far I’ve come. Each one helped mold me into the person I’m today. And I believe everything happens for a reason. It’s all part of the journey.

As I mentioned previously, I’m a Certified Makeup Artist. So I’m known for my variety of makeup looks. From glam to special effects. I’m recently adding the Gel-x Nails service and will be releasing some cuticle oil pens soon. I’m also bilingual (English & Spanish) so that allows me to be able to service more people. I’m also a mom to a toddler so I think that’s a big reason why alot of my clients are moms too. I love being a Makeup Artist but I also love being a mom and that comes first. I post alot of the motherhood experience while also trying to work for your family at the end of the day. I love communicating with my clients & followers and being open with them. I want to create that safe space for my clients so when they get serviced with me, they feel happy and get to relax for a bit.

I’d like to thank anyone who took time out of their day to read this. If you made it this far, I’d love for you to follow me on my social media and check out my work. My Instagram is @Makeupbyelenaa. My website is linked in the bio. As mentioned previously, I’ll be launching some cuticle oils so keep an eye out for that. If you’re interested in booking me feel free to book me through my website or email, Makeupbyelenaa@yahoo.com.