September 12, 2016

Meet DTLA Makeup Artist: Patty Uchi

Website: www.pattyuchimakeup.com
Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection" class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="e7978693939e92848f8e8a868c829297a7808a868e8bc984888a">[email&#160;protected]
Instagram: pattyuchimakeup
Other: Styleseat.com/pattyuchi

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Patty Uchi.

Patty, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I did my first photoshoot when I was 18. At first, I did a lot of volunteer and trade work in order to gain experience and build my portfolio. I also got a degree in Beauty Marketing from FIDM. During my time there, I did a couple marketing internships, and I was the beauty editor of the school magazine. I also did makeup retail to learn more about the business side of makeup, which led me to Clinique, where I learned all about skin. With my artistry background and my degree, I was fortunately able to make a career out of something I’m so passionate about.

Has it been a smooth road?
It definitely wasn’t an easy start. It’s impossible to get paid to do makeup without a lot or portfolio. I did a lot of free work while trying to build my kit. And I also did school and work full time. It took a lot of time and energy, but it was definitely very rewarding and absolutely worth it.

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
It would have to be my college graduation. Education is so important to me and I sacrificed so much and worked so hard to be able to get to that point

Every story has ups and downs. What were some of the downs others might not be aware of?
It was a constant struggle balancing school and work. I was struggling between working to pay for school and also finding enough time for class and projects. It took a ton of energy and time management to balance both

Is LA a good place to do what you do?
I think this city is the perfect place for my career. There are just so many options for someone trying to get their start in the beauty industry. It’s a lot of competition but there is also a lot of opportunities.

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