Life & Work with Daniella Knight

Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniella Knight.

Hi Daniella, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up, my family moved around a lot since my dad was in the Army. I’ve lived overseas in places like Germany and South Korea! My dad retired in 2016 and we ended up residing in San Antonio, TX. Growing up, I always wanted to be a doctor, and with the push and support from my dad, that’s all I ever thought I’d be. In high school, I discovered my love for makeup and would spend countless hours in my room perfecting my craft. I did many of my friends and peers’ prom makeup and even was paid for some! After I graduated, I ended up attending college at UCLA. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology but something didn’t feel right. I soon realized I wasn’t passionate about medicine my last year of college. However, I still applied to many different STEM jobs just so I could secure a future. I was only supposed to stay in LA until I graduated, but my heart told me I needed to find a way to stay.

In May 2022, I ended up suffering an ACL tear which forced me to deal with a lot of darkness I pushed aside. I realized life is too short and unpredictable to be stuck doing something my heart isn’t passionate about. After recovering at home for a few months, I took a leap of faith and applied to freelance for Charlotte Tilbury. To my surprise, I was hired! I also worked part-time at Da Vinci Connect— a school now close to my heart. I worked as an assistant teacher during the week and makeup artist on the weekends. I had no days off some weeks and one or two if I was lucky some others. Finally, an opportunity arose for me to work full-time for the brand at the Americana in Glendale. Of course, I accepted and now work here at the counter! Alongside doing makeup there, I freelance on my own on the side as well.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This journey was definitely everything other than smooth. Aside my knee injury, I was also dealing with family problems at home, coping with the passing of my dog, Morty, and also struggling with the question of what to do with my life. I didn’t want to disappoint my parents being a first-generation student—I faced a lot of pressure to succeed. I was also torn between staying in LA or moving back home, where I knew I’d be comfortable. I’m so grateful for these obstacles as without them I would not be where I am today nor have the mindset I do now.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a makeup artist! I work at the Charlotte Tilbury counter inside the Nordstrom at the Americana. I also freelance on the side. I specialize in soft glam, bridal/wedding makeup, and the occasional creative looks as well! I’m proud of being surrounded by strong, like-minded women around me every day. I’m most proud of the beauty I bring to my client’s eyes. I love being able to have them see through my eyes and realize how beautiful they are regardless. What sets me apart from others is my heart and personality. I love empowering women and everyone to be as confident as they can be. I strive to bring that confidence to my clients in any way I can while forming a connection with them and empathizing with whatever they entrust to tell me during our service.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I’m a huge gym girl! During college, I did powerlifting and bodybuilding and I continue to do so today. The discipline and consistency it gives me definitely helps translate into my work by helping me keep my mind strong. Something about my work people may not know about me is that I’m completely self-taught! Everything I know is thanks to the years of research I did in high school and college, and continue to do so today!

Pricing:

• Full Face — $120

Contact Info:

• Instagram: instagram.com/daniellasartistry