Today we’d like to introduce you to Megdi Tedla.
Hi Megdi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Before I get into my story, I would like to begin by letting you all know I am honored to share my journey on your platform! It means a lot!
I’m a first-generation Ethiopian born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Northern Virginia. My story starts back in 2004 – I had just started college and my aunt helped me get a part-time job working at a department store called Lord & Taylor in Columbia, MD. I worked in Women’s fashion – however, I always found myself gravitating toward the cosmetics department every chance I got. I had an innate desire to play in makeup and learn all about beauty products. From 2004-2008, I was a full-time student and continued to work part-time at L&T rotating between several Makeup counters such as: Estee Lauder, Clinique, Clarins and Lancome (just to name a few).
In 2008, I received my Bachelor’s in Healthcare & Public Policy from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. At that time, I never thought to seriously start a career in the Beauty industry, nor was it encouraged. I used to view working in cosmetics as a fun part-time job until I could finally start my career in the healthcare industry. Unfortunately, the Great Recession hit the U.S. from 2008-2009 making it extremely hard to jumpstart a new career in healthcare. Looking back, this roadblock was probably a sign to pursue a career in beauty…and before I knew it, I was thrust back into cosmetics! In 2008, was offered an opportunity to be a Makeup Counter Manager for Dior, Fashion Fair and Borghese… this is where I really started to develop my gifts and talents within customer service and as a Makeup Artist. I believe this was the inception of my passion to study makeup artistry.
Over the following 8 years, I left retail and accomplished my dream to work in the healthcare field – I also obtained my graduate degree in Health Administration and held many positions I took pride in! Although, I had a full-time career, I still worked as a Makeup Artist in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) on weekends… however juggling the two became overwhelming. Suddenly, my passion for Beauty started to take over and working in healthcare felt less and less fulfilling. In 2017, I felt a strong urge to quit my job and take a Leap of Faith. I moved to Los Angeles to see where my Makeup Artistry would take me.
Praise God, I will be celebrating my 5th year in Los Angeles this September and I have truly come a long way! Currently, I work with Amazing Brides and have secured VIP clients that regularly book me for makeup services! I’ve worked with Brands such as CHANEL, UOMA, THE LIP BAR, SEPHORA, ETHIKA, BFYNE and MBM SWIM. I provide Red Carpet Glam for Celebrities and have worked LIVE Events with: BET, NIKE, ESSENCE, BEAUTYCON, ZILLOW, GLAMSQUAD, BUZZFEED, SPOTIFY, NETFLIX, FACEBOOK AND MARRIOT HOTELS. All in all, the best is yet to come!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has absolutely NOT been a smooth road, yet I’m so grateful for all the lessons/experiences! Being an entrepreneur, as well as starting over in a new city will always come with challenges. Coming from a life where I always had steady income to solely relying on bookings to make ends meet was emotionally and financially taxing; it took a while to adjust! I believe it’s the nature of the beast, but if you continue to focus and develop your craft people will inevitably notice your talents! Another obstacle I initially dealt with in LA was finding a tribe of like-minded individuals. This will also take some time and discernment…yet when you start to meet the right people and make genuine connections, doors will begin to open! THAT’S A FACT! The best advice I could share is to keep going, no matter what! Don’t let time or your age deter you from reaching your goals!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Makeup Artist and provide services in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. I specialize in Bridal, Red Carpet and Glam for every occasion! My goal is to help people feel good, look good and exude confidence from the inside out. It’s all about unleashing that inner GLOW! I also pierce ears for all ages!
I’m very proud of my resilience and growth in this cutthroat city and industry! I believe my clients are a reflection of myself and since I attract the best ones I would say I’m definitely on the right path! I do my best to create a luxurious experience for everyone that sits in my chair…not only will you leave looking amazing, but I believe Makeup is also my vehicle for spreading positivity and good vibes!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Unfortunately, the pandemic had brought my business to a halt and unable to physically work I was forced to pivot and figure out a new way to use my skills in order to generate income for myself. This led to the birth of my Skin Care Line “Camara Sol.” My business partner Rosa Wilson and I created this line during our time in lockdown and launched our first product – “DEWY GLOW FACE OIL” in April 2021. The oil has been received so well and I couldn’t be happier! I consider this line my pandemic baby LOL!
Contact Info:
- Email: MakeupbyMegdi@gmail.com
- Website: https://megditedla.foliohd.com/
- Instagram: Megdi_Tedla_MUA
- Other: Camara-Sol.com
Image Credits:
Antwon Maxwell
