Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Ocampo.
Valerie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Anyone that knows me would describe me as creative and artistic. Growing up I was fascinated with Art and Movies, the “behind the scenes” aspect was what intrigued me the most, it was a world I knew I wanted to be a part of. Watching these talented artists elevate and completely transform a person into any character was pure magic. I was inspired to become a Makeup Artist. A traditional artist creates masterpieces on a blank canvas, a Makeup Artist creates masterpieces on canvases that faces of one of a kind.
Initially, I wanted to become a lawyer or an interior designer because it was a “logical” career choice. College is not for everyone and I was completely honest with myself, it wasn’t for me. Having chosen my profession I did not have anything to fall back on, which pressured me to work harder and dream bigger. I devoted 100% of my energy and time focusing on my true passion as an artist. Not once did I ever lose interest in Makeup Artistry, I knew that if I kept doing what I loved it would manifest into something spectacular.
I first got my foot in the door when I was 18 years old. I took a 3-day Makeup Artistry course and on the last day there was a guest celebrity Makeup Artist. She pulled me to the side after class and asked me if I would like to be her assistant, it was an opportunity of a life time, I quit my glamorous full-time job at Carls Jr the next day and it would be the last time I had worked a job I had absolutely no interest in. Within the first 2 years, I had the privilege of working on celebrities, television, and runway, it was incredible. The entertainment industry was addicting and exciting, it was a dream come true and a personal achievement.
I expanded my skills as an artist and became a full-time student at M.U.D in Burbank where I would master my craft as an artist learning Film, Special FX, Hair Artistry and everything in between. I figured the more knowledge I would acquire. the more doors would open up for me. I spent my weekends and free time collaborating with fellow freelancers, talent, photographers and directors to build my resume and gain more field experience. Eventually it landed me to work with multiple agencies.
7 years later, burned out with the glitz and glam of Hollywood so I started specializing in Bridal Beauty. I truly enjoyed the happy environment which is constantly filled with love and laughter. It was new and a breath of fresh air from the madness of the entertainment industry. It opened my eyes to realize where I really wanted to apply my time, talent and skills. There is a sense of purpose and fulfillment I find in creating a beautiful timeless look for someone on one of the happiest days of their lives. This is what inspired made me to focus on Bridal Beauty Artistry and start The Bridal Glow.
Has it been a smooth road?
I wish I could tell you that it was a smooth road. Making a living out of your passion is definitely the road less traveled. The saying “nothing worth having comes easy” is 100% true. To live your passion is one thing, to thrive in it is another.
I started as a freelance artist and later on decided to start my own business. The transition was difficult to say the least. Entrepreneurship is a 24/7 hustle. In the beginning of operating and managing a business I was faced with many challenges and obstacles. I sacrificed my savings, social life, and sleep to the business gods.
THE STRUGGLE IS REAL, it will make you or break you. It is an extremely competitive industry, patience is key.
Financially, I struggled for years. I mainly worked non-paid gigs, trade for print photo shoots and low budget films that barely covered my kit fee. I was able to land a handful of high paid gigs but still, I was not exactly “killing it”. Now having a business, I still struggle today balancing my business, social life, family and relationships without compromising one for the other. Even with the struggle and obstacles I still have yet to experience. I feel extremely lucky to be where I am today.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
The Bridal Glow is a luxury beauty service company that specializes in Makeup Artistry & Hair Styling for any occasion. We offer a wide variety of beauty services besides traditional makeup and hair. We do nearly everything from Airbrushing, Blowouts, Nail Design, Hair Extensions, Tattoo Cover Ups to 5 Min Fresh Facials, you name it.
What we are most proud of and what sets us apart is our techniques in our applications and how personable we are with each client, we focus on everyone individually to create a flawless timeless look that suits them without looking over done.
“You want to look like the best version of yourself” this is our goal.
Every client is a priority, we go above and beyond for our clients making sure everything runs smoothly for a relaxed, stress free experience. We travel to you and provide our services at the comfort of your home or hotel. Booking with is easy, we are there to answer any questions 24/7 and personally work with each of our clients to create a customized timeline for their appointments.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I love this city, you can find inspiration everywhere you go. Yes, you can start a business anywhere, but starting one out here was the most beneficial to me. I met a lot of others with the same goals and its really nice to live in an area where people are encouraging, most have similar dreams where you can grow together and learn from one another.
Small businesses have made their marks and have earned their stay here, these businesses are the backbone of this city and what gives this place so much personality and culture.
For any one starting out, this is the mecca of small businesses and entrepreneurs. I couldn’t think of a better place to start.
Pricing:
- Bridal Hair & Makeup Services $160 – $275
- Special Occasion Hair & Makeup $165
- A la carte $85
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thebridalglow.com
- Phone: 3108965570
- Email: hello@thebridalglow
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/thebridalglow
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-bridal-glow-long-beach
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.
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