Today we’d like to introduce you to Susie Salazar.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m a proud East LA girl. This place has left a mark on my identity, shaping me into the person I am today. Growing up around diverse cultures, music, and captivating personalities, I found myself constantly inspired by the uniqueness around me. From an early age, I discovered a deep passion for the visual arts. Fond memories flood my mind of the countless hours spent drawing, painting and experimenting different art forms and mediums all which ultimately led me to the art of makeup. I began doing makeup not only on myself but also on family and friends, for any occasion or just for fun. I truly had no idea what I was doing but doing it felt right and in the end it made my subjects happy. It was in those moments that I fell in love with makeup—it was therapeutic and sort of an escape. The canvas of someone’s face offered me the opportunity to express myself creatively, making them feel pretty and confident. During my high school years, when buying fashion and beauty magazines was beyond my means, I would eagerly immerse myself in their pages at the school library. I became obsessed with fashion photography especially in the realm of beauty and make-up.
In the mid-2000s, I moved to Spain and when I eventually returned to LA with nothing but the money I saved up while living there, it was clear to me that it was the right moment to pursue my passion—makeup. I took the leap and enrolled to Make-Up Designory in Burbank. Graduating from the program gave me opportunities that I otherwise wouldn’t of had and it also gave me that boost of confidence that I needed. Since then I’ve been striving to perfect my skills by engaging in numerous test shoots, taking classes or continuing to learning from my clients faces. My story continues to unfold and there is a lot that I wish to accomplish in my career.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Navigating the path of becoming a professional make-up artist and being a single mom has had it’s share of challenges. My schedule as a freelancer varies and I’ve had to learn over the years how to adapt to my jobs working around the care of my daughter. Nevertheless, I’ve been doing this for 11 years and this challenge has helped me learn to be a better multitasker and to use my time wisely. I truly embrace the journey, as it gave me the feeling of deservingness and gratitude for the achievements I have attained.
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 have a deep passion for all types of makeup but I believe that what truly tells me apart is my light-handed approach and emphasis on natural beauty. I love creating makeup looks for fashion editorial shoots, as they are a subtle which compliments with fashion aesthetics compared to heavier looks. That said, I equally appreciate crafting heavier, full-glam looks when the occasion calls for it. Clients often seek my services because they admire my effortless and natural touch. I prioritize light foundation and contouring, to retain the skin’s natural beauty without overwhelming it. Ensuring my clients feel comfortable and fresh beneath the makeup is important to me. Furthermore, I dislike following trends and prefer creating classic and timeless looks with my own personal touch. While I do enjoy experimenting and switching it up, I prefer something not too drastic.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe that one of the qualities that I posses and has been vital to my success is flexibility and having a great understanding of what suits my clients best. I believe that as a make-up artist it is very important to study the face, each look is catered and personalized that meets their needs and expectations. Through consistent dedication to my job and responsibilities, I have learned the value of discipline by establishing and adhering to a routine. Being a freelance makeup artist has its advantages and challenges. Contrary to popular belief, being your own boss requires constant self-motivation to improve your skills, learn new techniques, and ensure the sustainability of your business.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.susiesalazar.com
- Instagram: mua.susie
- Facebook: mua.susie
Image Credits
All photos taken by @JethroAlaba
