Meet DaVaughn Moná | Model + Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with DaVaughn Moná and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi DaVaughn, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Whew, so this has been the one that’s most challenging. I’ve recently realized that I don’t have much balance I’m either all in or all out, and extremist really. So, I’ve been working on this. What helps me most and when I perform my best in any and all things is when I take the time to pour into myself first, this starts with my morning routine. What that looks like for me is, wake up, pray, meditate, journal, read, and get a workout in. Does everyday look like this currently? Absolutely not, that’s part of me seeking balance but I feel my best when I take that time for me first. I also read something recently about balance that Ashley Graham said and it was like when I’m thriving in one part of my life something else is being sacrificed and that stuck with me, because it can be challenging to give everything a 100% at one time. I think that’s important to recognize and remember when seeking balance.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When it comes to Makeup Artistry I’ve come to this space where I just do me and the right clients will align. Now granted, it hasn’t always been this way. I started my official artistry days at MAC and I did any and everything because we had to do what the client wanted. Which I believe was a great way for me to start because I learned what I enjoyed and didn’t enjoy quickly. Over time I realized what brought me joy in my artistry and the makeup looks I’d fall in love with from other artist and from there I realized my style was clean and timeless makeup what we now call “soft/natural glam”. I strive to enhance my clients features, and give them a great experience overall. My main goal is for my clients to look and feel great in their glam. Thus far in my journey I’m most proud of connecting and sharing space with phenomenal and talented women. It’s something I never take for granted and is such a privilege that I am super grateful for.

Modeling is newer for me, it’s no secret that I’ve always loved the camera but I will say I didn’t know how or if it was really possible for me to model professionally, you know? Until I did, a photographer friend of mine used me to test the light one day a couple years ago after I finished the makeup and captured the most gorgeous headshot and told me you need to be in front of the camera. That short conversation was all I needed to really go for it, I mean all my years at MAC and just growing up people would tell me I should model. Really, it was a dream of mine that I never worked towards so I just started connecting, shooting, practicing in the mirror and watching the journey unfold. Modeling is definitely not easy, it’s a highly competitive market, I know what keeps me going is my passion and my desire for others to see themselves in the media and know that they can do it too.

I want people to know that I’ve worked for all of the opportunities that have come my way and that when you are in an alignment nothing will pass you by. Just keep working, creating, and when it’s your time to shine, shine!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m from the bay and am newer to the LA area so I’ll share for both. I love to eat and try new spots, so in the Bay we’d definitely do in the East Bay: M2Oak, Oeste, Lolitas and of course go to Lake Merritt. In San Jose we’d do Tostadas and Nirvana Soul black owned coffee shop. We’d forsure to the city to see the stunning views and grab the best Mexican food in the Mission and do some wine tasting in Napa.

In LA, I’d have to go to Runyon, I love to hike and Runyon is just quick and easy work after the workout we’d have to stop by Kreation or some juice spot for post workout protein. I’d definitely go by Leimert Park, go by Issa from Insecure house, I feel like that’s a tourist attraction now lol. We’d eat great, Toca Madera, Bacari on 3rd, Harriets, Mama Shelter, E.P. & L.P. all the cute rooftop views and vibes. Check out Melrose Trading Post, Black on the Block, Black Market Flea and support Black Business, and last but not least take the PCH to Malibu and check out some beautiful beaches.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This is a loaded question. I believe that everyone in my path and each of my experiences have prepared me for my next moment and I’m forever grateful for all of those who have impacted my journey. But, my parents I hold close to my heart. My mom has been there every step of the way, she never missed a beat. She always listens to my high moments, my wins, knows about all my lows etc, just the best overall. My dad, our relationship is special. When I was younger he taught me this mantra that is forever embedded in my heart and mind. Post college, I moved back home to CA after living on the East Coast and when I did I lived with my dad which was a unique 1-1 experience. It honestly felt like bootcamp lol, he was always so hard on me. Living with a gemini is something else – if you know you know, but my dad dropped so many gems that I find myself remembering or saying to myself when I’m moving amongst a crowd. I’m definitely happy to have love and support as I grow and blossom in self and in this life I’m privileged and blessed to live.

Website: www.davaughnmona.com

Instagram: davaughnmona

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davaughnd/

Image Credits
@kayemcccoy @iannivy @darrinbaldridge