Meet Mason Lopez | Makeup Artist

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

Hi Mason, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always felt passionate about makeup, but more importantly, about making people feel comfortable in their own skin. In a world where there’s immense pressure to be perfect and conform to certain standards, I wanted to break that norm. When I started my business, I knew I never wanted to change the appearance of my clients or hide their natural features. A quote comes to mind frequently, it’s become my mantra, “make her feel like art.” I want my clients to be confident with who they are and embrace their uniqueness. Makeup is just on the surface; we’re all beautiful in our own ways, and I want my clients to feel like a walking piece of art.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been doing makeup for friends since forever – sleepovers, dance recitals, prom makeup in my mom’s kitchen. There wasn’t a specific “aha” moment; it naturally evolved over time as I realized my passion for makeup and empowering others. In this industry, your word is gold, and your reputation is everything. If I promise something to a client, I make sure to deliver on it. There will be days that you don’t feel up to the challenge. There was an evening I lost a very close friend the night prior to a bridal appointment. That night was rough, and the next day, showing up to that appointment was the last thing I wanted to do. You will have some of your hardest days, but we have to remember that these appointments are some of your clients most anticipated and best days. My heart was absolutely broken, but there’s something so healing when you have the opportunity to completely immerse yourself into your work, especially as a creative type. Following through on commitments is crucial in building trust and maintaining strong relationships. My work-life balance has changed drastically. There was a time when I couldn’t say no and took on too many projects, even doing some for free or at a discounted rate. I’ve learned to prioritize and recognize that not every opportunity is the right fit. While saying no can be difficult, it’s essential to avoid overbooking and ensure rest is prioritized. If you’re burnt out, it will reflect in your work. I pursued a creative career because I genuinely love it. Creative careers aren’t about the money; they are driven by passion and the joy of creating something that brings happiness to others.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am fortunate to come from a very hard-working family, built from the ground up. My grandpa opened up a barbershop in 1952 that is still open and operated by my father. A Latino owned business, Richard & Greg’s Barbershop, operating for nearly 70 years, in a small and predominantly white town is huge, especially in the days where there are barbershops are in every corner. Growing up in the barbershop taught me a lot about connecting with your client base and providing the best services to your ability.

On the other hand my mother grew up in poverty, starting with absolutely nothing and has grown to be one of the top business women in her field, she’s a partner and financial advisor in Central Valley Strategic Wealth Management. That woman is a force of nature. I’ve watched her rise from the ashes and become one of the strongest, most independent, business savvy women I’ve ever known in a field dominated by men.

If that isn’t inspirational, I don’t know what is. Both of my parents have struggled with different types of adversity in their lives and continue to be known and reputable in their fields.

Instagram: masonmakeup

Facebook: Make up by Mason Lopez

Image Credits
Melody Olivas