Today we’d like to introduce you to Claudia Unzueta.
Hi Claudia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started studying makeup and hair styling eight years ago and taking classes in person and online.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all! It isn’t easy, especially at the beginning, when you are trying to start your own business and get your clientele to grow. Learning new skills is easy if you love what you’re doing. When I first started learning, I had two jobs as a waitress and housekeeper. This last job included being a pet sitter. I also like to draw and paint, so I did that and an extra income (When I was around 23 and 27, I was part of the art academy in Hilton Head, where I learned to draw and paint.). And even after years, when I started working as an MUA, I couldn’t leave my other jobs. A couple of years later, after I started as an MUA, I quit my career as a waitress. I started getting booked during weekends for weddings, quinceañeras, photoshoots, etc. And it was great! So I couldn’t work as a waitress anymore. But housekeeping, another thing during the week, is hard to get booked. So that is why I decided to keep on doing housekeeping. This allowed me to do my schedule. And have the weekends off to do what I love! But it hasn’t been easy.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
What sets me apart from others is my creativity. I specialize in makeup, which is what I am known for best, but I also do hairstyles and am an eyebrow tattoo technician. What am I must be proud of? I am proud of myself and everything I have achieved. I am proud of not giving up my dreams, even in difficult circumstances.
Networking and finding a mentor can positively impact one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have not had a mentor. But I had a lot of people in my life that supported me, pushed me to do what I loved, and helped me see what was good in me. What worked for me was that I always looked for a way to learn what I wanted to learn. No matter what! There is always a way. That is all I can say. For networking, I use social media. I like to go to bridal shows to meet photographers, wedding organizers, etc. (that is very important). I have also worked for local designers doing makeup for models on their shows. Anything that gives you experience is good! Just don’t be afraid.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @amara_ambrosia
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amaraambrosia?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Image Credits
Gustavo Rattia photographer
