Connect
To Top

Life and Work with Monica Hsu

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Hsu.

Monica, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve always loved makeup, ever since I was little. My mom would get mad at me for playing around with her lipsticks, but I couldn’t stay away from it no matter what. It was so much fun! I am a self-taught makeup artist and makeup is my true passion. I see it as something therapeutic and a source of self-expression. I decided I wanted to start posting my makeup looks/tutorials on Instagram and YouTube about a year ago and that’s where it all started. The opportunity to be able to create whatever I want and be able to show the rest of the world my creations and visions come to life is what keeps me going! I am currently continuing my journey in the makeup industry and hopefully one day I can be a huge inspiration and influencer in the beauty community!

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
So far, the journey has been tough because juggling school, a job, and an internship makes it hard for me to find time to film videos and practice different makeup looks. Keeping up to date with the new brands and products can be quite difficult and it can get expensive. It’s a challenge, needing to buy the current products to stay relevant within the beauty community, especially since it moves so quickly. Life can get overwhelming and be staying consistent isn’t always the easiest thing for me. I would get discouraged because there are so many people on social media who are pursuing the same route and you question yourself if you’re even that good compared to all of these people who are all so amazing at what they do. The best advice I can give to other women and men who are starting their journey is to stay true to who you are and be yourself. Be genuine and always stay positive, because we all have our own unique personalities and we all have amazing qualities in different ways. Stay consistent with your work and never lose sight of your goal!

Please tell us about Monica Hsu.
I’m still trying to build my brand and I haven’t figured out exactly what I’m known for yet. I feel like that will come to me over time. I am definitely a perfectionist, that’s for sure! I believe what sets me apart from others is my goofy personality and my weird facial expressions. I’m not afraid to show the world my quirky side!

Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
I believe in the industry I am pursuing in, female leadership doesn’t really have any barriers because the majority is women. The only obstacle I can think of is the competition between women. We feel like we have to be the best or the most beautiful and it can definitely get competitive sometimes.

Pricing:

  • Makeup services start at $50

Contact Info:


Image Credit:
Sarah Sharpe, Jessica Sharpe

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in

  • Portraits of the Valley

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesApril 28, 2025
  • Portraits of Hollywood

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesApril 28, 2025
  • LA’s Most Inspiring Stories

    Every neighborhood in LA has its own vibe, style, culture and history, but what consistently amazes us is not what differentiates...

    Local StoriesApril 28, 2025
  • Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know

    Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a...

    Local StoriesApril 28, 2025
  • Portraits of LA

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesApril 18, 2025
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Services Spotlights

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 15, 2024
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Experiences to Consider

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 15, 2024
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Products from the Community

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 14, 2024
  • Podcast: Your Journey As An Actress

    We’re so lucky to have a great guest with us today to discuss your journey as an actress and so much...

    Partner SeriesOctober 22, 2024