Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Catalan.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I wanted to be in the cosmetology community at first as soon as I had graduated from high school. But due to my parents not supporting my dream at the time, I had to make a career switch. Up until 5 years ago, when I got more involved with makeup and started learning on my own watching YouTube videos, I realized how much I loved it and I started my Instagram account and YouTube account. I sat down with a camera and recorded myself doing videos and I even made my own ring light. Practice makes perfect. All these things would not have been possible without my fiance Armando who supported my dream as well. He encouraged me to go after it and he also paid for my courses to become a Certified Makeup Artist.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I had this dream to be a part of the cosmetology community, but unfortunately, my parents did not support it. So, this career had to wait. Until I decided it was time to chase it and here we are now doing makeup on other people other than myself. Advice for anybody starting? Well, choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life. Never give up on your dreams because you will never know how far you can go. If you decide to go to the makeup industry, just know how limitless it is and you can go really far. People sometimes think this is a hobby when in reality it isn’t, they don’t understand how much of our time and skill goes into our work. So, chase your dream whatever it is and never let go!
Please tell us about Michellexmua.
I do makeup for any special occasions, I focus on what my client expects and wants from me. I have knowledge of different bridal makeup as well as mature makeup. I don’t know what sets me apart from other makeup artist but I let my work speaks for itself.
Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
My parents play a big role. My mother was always so overprotective of us that she did everything to take care of my two sisters, my brother and myself. My hard-working dad, who always gave us what he could. I was blessed to have my parents by my side. They always made sure that we knew the value of hard work and education. They made sure they inculcate values and morals. Also, my fiance, who is my biggest supporter, my biggest fan, and my best friend. A big shout out to my fiance for pushing me to follow my makeup dream. He’s always pushing me to be the very best version of myself. I wouldn’t be where I am without any of them and I want to thank my parents and sisters and my fiance for believing in me and supporting me.
Pricing:
- Makeup $50-$75
- Hair $50
Contact Info:
- Email: michelle.catalan625@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/_michellexmua
- Other: www.youtube.com/michellexmua
Image Credit:
Michelle Catalan, Liliana Avitia, Sonia Sandoval, Armando Antunez, Maritza Diaz
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago 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.
