Meet Sophia Penuelas of Aliso Viejo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sophia Penuelas.

Hi Sophia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
To be honest I did not like makeup at the beginning. I grew up with my female cousins who would sit and put on makeup before we would go out to places. At the time I didn’t understand why people found it amusing. It wasn’t till my cousin’s quinceañera where I had my makeup done for the first time and I realized that this is the feeling that maybe everyone gets. The feeling of peace and having fun when doing their makeup. At the time I was 13, it wasn’t till I got to high school and had my quinceañera that my parents officially allowed me to play with makeup. Instead of going out every weekend like a wild high schooler I stayed home and would play with a new makeup look or hairdo I saw on tv or on social media. On days where I feel overwhelmed I always gravitate towards my makeup brushes or my curling iron. My family has been one of my biggest supporters during my journey as a hmua and I can’t thank them enough!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It wasn’t always a smooth road. I remember girls at my school who would say some things about my makeup. A couple jealous family members who would talk down about my passion for makeup and hair. What made it better were the friends and family who would encourage me everyday to follow my dreams. There will be a few picky people along the way but it will seem so small when you have lots of love and support from the community who supported you since the very beginning.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a makeup and hair artist specializing in beauty, glam, editorial, and special effects makeup. My work ranges from creative photoshoots to music videos to film productions as well as bridal beauty and special occasions. I enjoy bringing creative visions to life through detailed artistry and versatility. I’m especially passionate about artistic/cultural looks, as well as connecting with photographers, models, and other creatives who share the same passion as me. I take pride in my ability to adapt to different styles and environments. I love watching my clients and models reactions after seeing their transformation.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the creativity and passion Los Angeles brings to the community. I know most people call it graffiti but I see the work and dedication the artist put into making the piece itself. Theres a lot of hidden talent in LA. One thing I like the least about LA is the traffic. One wrong exit or leaving 5 minutes late will make or break your arrival time.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautybychofiesss?stkn=eHo3YzJ5NHI4bjVn&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://photos.app.goo.gl/58BBvV6gaWHEiREv9

Image Credits
@suave_shotzz
@reverielove
@carlosrxo
@nesquik_jz
@skylarvsmith
@saysomarvelous
@la_fashionista_ayala
@rossychur_
@goldenhourpv
@toycarproductions