MUA

Majority of my career has been in retail cosmetics. Although I had previously performed many makeovers, I didn't realize how much I enjoy makeup artistry until doing makeup for a few photoshoots. 

While in Dallas, my friend pursued photography for modeling agencies. While getting more into it, he asked if we could collaborate. Below are some of my favorite photos from the shoots (I worked with hair on all of these assignments as well).

 

I see makeup as a tool to enhance what is already there, not to cover it up. I enjoyed receiving creative direction from the photographer, and being able to add my own esthetic to each look. It was satisfying to help bring the photographer's vision to life.

View more of Andrew's photographs here: Andrew Arceri

West Coast

Years ago I would have never imagined living in Los Angeles. However, a couple of months ago, the idea of moving here swarmed my mind after my roommates in Dallas mentioned moving to San Diego. I thought to myself, I want to live on the west coast too. After further consideration, I realized that I actually knew a lot of people in L.A. And from that point on, I made the decision to figure out how to 'make it work'. When I told friends, family, and coworkers of my decision, they were all very supportive and had confidence that I could handle it.

So here I am, in the city of dreams. And have been very welcomed with great roommates, awesome coworkers and amazing weather!

In the thirteen days of being here, I have gone to the ocean, gone hiking, sent lots of emails, talked to artists, and drank a lot of coffee. 

On the not so exciting note, I found out my cat who I left behind has leukemia. Which has made it more difficult for my dear friend back in Lafayette to find a home for him. Before I left, and his diagnosis, he had two home options. But since both of those places have cats, it is no longer became an option. 

I felt so helpless being far away and that my friend had to deal with it all. Thankfully, we found out yesterday that he will have a home with a lady in Austin, TX who has a leukemia positive cat as well. So he will be living in a cool city AND have a friend! A big weight has been lifted.

I have a couple of thoughts from all of this. One - it’s crazy how attached we get to our pets. I cried so much when I heard of the news, and then felt like I was on the verge of tears the rest of the week. He was with me during a lot of my transitional times within the past five years. It reminds me of the movie Marley & Me - definitely had the ugly cry going on both times I watched the movie!

Two - moving to an unfamiliar place is difficult and teaches you a lot, quickly. I think that’s why I love doing it. Moving forces you to meet new people and explore the unknown.

I definitely miss my family and Louisiana cookin’ (and of course my cat), but I am truly happy with the decision to move here. And am so thankful for my amazing friends all over the globe!

I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone.