Life & Work with Maria Luna of Gwinnett county

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Luna

Hi Maria, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
A profound loss became the catalyst for my life’s purpose. My name is Maria Luna, and I am a makeup artist and hairstylist, but most importantly, an immigrant. My parents fought hard to give my siblings and me a better life. We grew up surrounded by struggle, always hoping to repay their sacrifices. But at 17, shortly after my high school graduation, my mother’s passing left me with a profound emptiness and a lack of direction.

Experiencing such a loss at a young age, I turned to makeup as my outlet, my escape. Without a clear plan, what started as a safe place eventually became my salvation. Unable to afford college while raising my siblings, I pursued my passion for artistry. Over the years, I worked on my skills, transforming not just faces but lives through my work. I am now a makeup artist with over 8 years of experience and a hairstylist for over 5 years.

One of the most memorable moments in my career was working with a bride during a makeup trial who seemed to have lost hope for life. Unaware of her situation, we shared a touching conversation. The following day, I received a heartfelt text from her. She thanked me not only for the makeup but also for my words, expressing that my encouragement had made a difference. Moments like these remind me why I love what I do.

A year ago, I moved from California, where most of my clientele was established, to Atlanta. The transition was challenging, but the warm welcome I received here has been incredibly encouraging. Although this is only the beginning, I couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunities and support I’ve found in this vibrant city.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey has been far from smooth. Running a business has always kept me on my toes, but my biggest struggle has been with myself. Believing in yourself 150% is crucial to success, and my own doubts and fears often held me back from dreaming big.

In beauty school, we’re taught to keep things professional, but for me, it’s always been more than just a job—it’s a life purpose and a way of impacting the world. Over time, I’ve grown to carry who I am with confidence and fully accept that. This personal growth has been a critical part of overcoming my struggles.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Makeup Artist & Hairstylist
On weekends, you most likely won’t find me at the salon, as I focus on bridal hair and makeup, as well as all special events. When it comes to hair color, my heart is in “Balayage,” but I truly enjoy the art of any hair color transformation.

In this industry, there is a client for everyone because everyone’s art is unique in its own way. What has set me apart since the beginning is my ability to connect deeply with my clients. I always knew that the emptiness I once felt was meant for me to pour into others. Through my journey, I’ve learned to love the depth of human connections and how significant a small conversation can be.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I genuinely feel that this industry is always evolving, especially with the influence of social media. It’s beautiful to witness different creativity and art, but my goal for the next few years is to share more about the person behind the art. Life is too big to think small; for me, this is more than just a career.

With purpose comes goals. I plan to re-enter the world of education and inspire others to believe in their dreams. I aspire to add more value to this community. Being in a new state, I’ve been in the shadows, but we are growing every day, and I hope to share that journey with the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://booklunnaglam.my.canva.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunnaglam