Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Arellano.
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 am the owner of M|C Artistry or @makeupbycrystalx on Instagram. Growing up I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do but makeup was probably the last thing I ever thought I would be doing. I grew up very tomboy and didn’t wear a full face of makeup until I was about 19. As a young adult, I had planned on going to college to study. However, life had other plans for me.
My then two year old daughter got medically ill and became disabled, which caused me to put a halt on my career plans. Soon after I decided to go to Cosmetology School, given it was a shorter course than what I originally wanted to study. Which was perfect for my busy mom/caregiver schedule. Once I started cosmo, I realized I did not enjoy doing hair at all but even though they did not teach hands-on makeup we were allowed to practice on our classmates. So I decided to follow a YouTube tutorial on one of my classmates and the rest is History!
For as long as I can remember, I have always loved art, drawing and creating. The day I picked up that makeup brush for the first time I realized how artistic and creative you can be with makeup. Makeup has no rules! I started doing makeup on family and friends. Letting all my creativity flow and the more I did it, the more I loved it. In 2015 with a small push from my husband I found myself freelancing and working at a salon part-time. I was so scared to do so but I am glad I did because this is where my journey began. Since then, I have seen myself evolve as an artist and a small business owner.
This is definitely an industry where you can never stop learning and after being self-taught for seven years, I decided to take my first makeup master class this year. This allowed me to meet other artists with the same passion and has given me the opportunity to work with upcoming models and beauty pageant contestants. The one thing I love most about makeup is how it makes people feel. Seeing how happy they are when they look at themselves before they leave my chair is priceless. All women are beautiful but I enjoy making them feel more confident and powerful with makeup!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been easy at all. There was definitely a lot of trial and error in finding my own personal style with makeup. Also, it wasn’t easy building up clientele and growing my portfolio to show what made me stand out from other artists. As much as Social Media platforms have helped me to showcase my work and grow my clientele, they have also now made me a content creator. Which is never easy. I am my own boss, marketer, receptionist, social media manager and full-time mom/caregiver, etc. Having to create content for social media is so much fun but it’s also a lot of work. You have to keep up with what is trending and stay relevant.
There is a great deal of competition and amazing talent in Houston but I like to think there is enough work and clients for everyone in the makeup industry. The road to success is definitely not an easy one. Just like everything else in life, nothing is handed to you and motivation is not always there. I’ve learned that you have to push through obstacles and work hard to get to where you want to be!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the owner of M|C Artistry, I offer professional makeup for all events, photoshoots and special occasions. My style varies depending on what look my client is asking for but I mainly specialize in full coverage flawless makeup. I am known more for my “Instagram Makeup” looks. I enjoy keeping up with makeup trends and putting my skills to the test. Something I’m proud of and sets me apart from others is the risks I take to get to where I want to be in this industry. It’s all about getting out of your comfort zone.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Networking is great for sharing ideas and knowledge. It can also help you meet people at all professional levels and help you make connections. Having a good mentor and making these connections will always result in good opportunities.
Pricing:
- Full Glams $75-150
- Bridal Glams $90-$150
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeupbycrystalx/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/pg/glambycrystalx/photos/?ref=m_notif&mt_nav=0
Image Credits
@Wolfpackvisualmedia
