Meet Ellie Michel: Makeup and Hair Artist

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

Hi Ellie, how do you think about risk?
I believe that if you want to reach your fullest potential in this life, you must be willing to take risks. The first biggest risk I took was at 15, when I moved from my dad’s household, to my moms. If I didn’t make that conscious decision, my life would be completely different. The second biggest risk I took was moving to LA by myself at the age of 28. I moved here for my career in makeup and hair artistry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Licensed Cosmetologist in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in textured hair and beauty makeup. I am most proud of my willingness to keep going, even when the “odds are placed against me.” I am excited to see what the future holds, and I am excited about the relationships I get to continue to, not only build, but the new ones I get to create. I got to where I am today by having a vision, and then putting that vision into action. Staying consistent along the way also played a huge part, not only in my life, but in my career. It was not easy in any sense of the word. I overcame challenges by having faith, first and foremost. I had to realize that the challenges will never go away, but no same challenge is meant to stay either. It was important not to get stuck in a rut, and the only way I would get out of that rut, is by realizing that what I am seeing with my physical eye is nothing compared to what God has planned for my future. I have learned so many lessons along the way. The main one is to remain humble and keep those around you close. Take time away from the grind and get back to nature and come back to yourself. We have a tendency to lose who we are, but as long as we continue finding our way back, we will be just fine. I have also learned the importance of creating genuine relationships with those around me. That has been such an essential part of my growth. I want the world to know that you can do anything you put your mind and time towards, and you can be anything you want to be with dedication and passion. The odds were placed against me, at a very young age, but I always had drive and determination as a little girl, and because of that, I am living out my dreams.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I myself am pretty new to LA, lol. So I am still exploring. The first thing I would do is take them on a hiking trail. There are so many great ones, it is hard for me to choose. One of my favorites is Fryman Canyon Trail. Next, I would take them to The Raven Spa, I just went there the other day for a deep tissue massage and I was obsessed. After that, we would go to the beach in Malibu. I fell in love with Malibu, and I plan to definitely live there one day. LA has amazing food spots, but my favorite so far is Pizza Man. off of Magnolia Blvd. The best pizza in town. Last but not least, I would take him/her to see the LA lights at night. It’s a beautiful site.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate a shoutout first to God. I would be where I am without Him. Secondly, I want to give a shoutout to my Mom and Dad (Step – Dad). I use step dad because the previous answer wouldn’t make sense other wise, lol. They both have encouraged me to follow my dreams. They both have encouraged me to keep going even when I wanted to give up and stop. My mom especially, she is always there when I need her. I call her my “manager” because she is constantly talking to me about work and constantly looking for ways to help me improve my professionalism and understanding when it comes to the beauty industry. My dad, who always encourages me to keep going and keep chasing my dreams. Without either one of them both, this journey would have been a lot harder than I could imagine.

Website: https://www.elliemichell.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elliemichelll/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-reed-795591172/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ellie-michel-makeup-los-angeles?osq=Elizabeth+Michel+artistry
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYWaK6TD514PWWx6C-xXvNw

Image Credits
HAIR : Wesley Belchoir, Hair Designs LA, Nina J Hair Photography : Kris Lou, Chris Cruz Photo, Jasmine Baeza, Kinsey Ball, Olivia Katz, Tony Bee Photo