We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimtsy Sanchez Gomez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimtsy, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?

I pursued an artistic career for so many reasons. At a very young age, I became obsessed with History and film. I was fascinated by the art of transformation, the storytelling and the different makeup trends that have evolved over time. I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of in some way.
I was always attracted to colors, but I loved that in makeup it came in so many different forms (lipsticks, eyeshadows, etc.). You can use them in different ways to express who you were or to translate who a character was.
I became so passionate about makeup that creating just became a part of who I am. It doesn’t feel like work because I love it so much. When I’m doing someone’s makeup it’s almost therapeutic for me. I am painting on a canvas; it just happens to be on someone’s face.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am so proud and excited to have started Peony & Blush Makeup Artistry, my bridal makeup and hair business. I went from working alone to expanding to over 10 artists in the Southern California area. I didn’t know anything about running a company, but I take it one day at a time. I am constantly researching to gain more knowledge.
The road to becoming a successful artist has not been easy. I had to do a lot of free work to gain experience. I was working on sets, where I wasn’t getting paid, for 10-12 hours a day or driving over an hour to be a part of a shoot that would help start my professional portfolio. To become better at my craft, I had to make mistakes. I made mistakes as a professional but also as an artist. I am so grateful for my mistakes because they became lessons. They helped me become who I am today.

I’ve put in a lot of time trying to become a better artist as well. One thing that I pride myself in, is that I really pay attention to detail. I make sure that the clients lashes are sitting symmetrically or that their lipstick isn’t bleeding onto their teeth. I go above and beyond to make the client happy; I don’t just do my job and leave. I help them get into their dresses if needed. If they can’t reach to put on their shoes once they’re dressed, I put them on for them. People will always remember how you made them feel and if you made them feel beautiful and confident that will leave a lasting impression on them.

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 love Southern California because it is the only place where you can visit the beach, the mountains, the city, and the desert all in one day if you wanted to. I love the desert. I truly believe that the desert is magical so they definitely have to take a trip to Joshua Tree. There is a great coffee shop that I adore in Joshua Tree called Frontier.
The Midcentury architecture in Palm Springs is so unique. With the mountains in the background, the sunrise and sunsets are just priceless.
When in Southern California, you have to visit Hollywood. My favorite place in LA is the Griffith Observatory.
Not only is the building beautiful but the views are even better. I love that you get to a closer view of the Hollywood sign, but you also get to see the ocean and downtown as well. There is also a trail so you can hike up or down the hill.
 I got my first retail job as a makeup artist in Santa Monica. Although a very touristy spot, it’s such a fun place to visit. You have to ride the Ferris Wheel and walk the pier.
You can’t visit California and not get In n Out, so stop there for lunch.
Universal Studios holds a special place in my heart being one of the places that inspired my career. It is now my son’s favorite amusement park as well.

Disneyland is also very special to me. Me being the history lover that I am, I love that when you walk in there you are taken back to the 1950s.

My parents used to work at the Lake Arrowhead Resort, when I was growing up, so I spent quite a bit of time there. The view driving up is gorgeous. Make a stop i the village and eat at a restaurant overlooking the lake.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I really owe a lot to my family. My mom, dad, sister, and my boyfriend were always there to help or support me in any way that they could. They always told me to follow my dreams and to pursue what made me happy.

I am very grateful for my late Aunt Ulda. She believed in me, and with her help I was able to afford my monthly tuition payments for makeup school.

I assisted Troy Jensen for some time after finishing school and I would like to thank him for exposing me to a lot of things. Whether it was makeup techniques or just things about the industry, I learned alot from him.

I have had so many friends help me get through the rough patches. There were times where I would want to quit, and they would encourage me to keep going. My life coach, Patricia Castro, has helped me immensely in all aspects of my life. She came into my life at the most perfect time. She really helped me understand my thoughts and how to live a more positive and productive life.

I am also so thankful to my fellow artists that have referred me. It’s so special when you get support from your community.

Website: Pblushmakeup.com

Instagram: @Peonyblushmakeup

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/peony-and-blush-makeup-artistry-moreno-valley

Image Credits
Whimsie Photographie Mary Costa Photo

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.