Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Vega.
Hi Madison, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Since I was young, I have always loved every form of art and knew I wanted to pursue a creative field. It wasn’t until I got introduced to makeup that I knew I wanted to be a makeup artist! I first got into makeup in middle school, recreating looks by early Youtube makeup artists like Michelle Phan or Bubzbeauty.
After years of practicing on my own face, I was ready to test my skills and work on other faces. I got hired at MAC Cosmetics when I was 19 and gained SO much experience and knowledge with makeup. At the age of 21, I got promoted to a management position, and it was then that I started to gain an understanding of back-of-house operations. I continued to work for MAC Cosmetics for another year, and while I loved my position, I was always itching for more artistry. Working with artists every day allowed me to network and witness success stories of creatives leaving to chase the freelance dream. Despite all fear and doubt in my mind, my heart told me it was time to take the leap of faith and chase it, too. So, here I am now. 23 years old in a career that allows me to be my own boss and be an artist every single day. I am so grateful for all my past experiences, good and bad, because they shaped me into who I am today, and I couldn’t be happier!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my biggest struggles was being doubted by others in the makeup industry. When I first started with MAC Cosmetics, the majority of my team was incredible! However, there were a few that critiqued me every step of the way and made me feel like I’d never been good enough to make it. I was told I was too young to be in a leadership position, older artists did not want to take direction from me, or people would tell me something that I worked hard on was not up to standard. These situations created so much doubt in my mind about myself. Luckily, I started to realize that I can’t change the way people think of me. I can only be my best self, and the ones who accept me as I am are the ones whose opinions truly matter. Even after this, there were still moments where the self-doubt crept back into my life, especially when I decided that I wanted to chase the freelance dream. What if I’m not good enough? What if I don’t get enough business? What if I don’t know enough to sustain myself? It’s moments where I’m questioning myself that I have to take a step back and look at everything I’ve been through and where I’m still going. Every day is a learning experience, and all I can do is continue to grow and stay proud of how far I’ve come!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I do every type of makeup look from bridal, editorial, and even special effects! Although I love working on weddings and photoshoots, special effects makeup is truly where my heart is. Since I was young, I’ve had such an immense appreciation for horror movies, simply because of the makeup and production behind it all. I believe that having that love for art, especially from such a young age, truly sets me apart in the makeup industry because I appreciate every single aspect of it with my whole heart; I will always truly love art in every form!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My biggest support system is my boyfriend, dad, step-mom, brother, and best friend. They have encouraged me every step of the way, and I truly would not be where I am today without them. I am so blessed to be very close to my family and have them so involved in my journey as well as being a part of theirs.
I am also thankful for my very first manager at MAC Cosmetics, who hired me and gave me the kickstart to my career. Thanks to her, I learned so much about this industry, and she played a HUGE role in where I am now.
I also had two of the best coworkers at my last position in MAC Cosmetics, who drove me to chase this dream. These two both successfully chased their freelance artist dream and taught me SO much along the way. There were so many tools that they introduced me to that have helped my business, and they have also supported me since the day we met.
I am genuinely grateful for everyone that has been part of my journey and who continues to support me as I grow. I mean it with my whole heart that I would not be where I am today without them all.
Pricing:
- Glam Sessions: Starting at $80.00
- Bridal Makeup: Starting at $100.00
- Bridal Trials: Starting at $80.00
- SFX/Theatrical: Starting at $150.00
Contact Info:
- Email: madisonvegamua@gmail.com
- Website: madvegamua.wixsite.com/madisonvegamua
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/madisonvegamua
