Today we’d like to introduce you to Beth Mello.
Beth, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I always say that my story begins with my mom. She came to the U.S. from Brazil leaving behind her dreams of teaching art to start a new life with me. Since I was a kid, she has taught me the importance of self-expression and the need for a creative outlet. I think it’s safe to say I took that advice very seriously.
From crocheting to collaging, I’ve always loved taking up different hobbies to preoccupy myself. Even though I spent a lot of time working on these countless creative projects, it never felt like I had found something I enjoyed enough to deem a passion of mine. Not until I discovered the world of creative makeup artistry. I can’t even begin to imagine how many hours I have dedicated to my craft, it became a lifeline for me as a teen dealing with my undiagnosed health conditions.
Things got tough, and when I didn’t have motivation to do anything, makeup would be the one thing I looked forward to practicing. So just like that, I chose to replace my bass guitar and cahier de français with eyeshadow palettes and face paints! Instead of playing music and practicing all 6 languages I spoke at the time, I began staying up late to practice creating fun colorful makeup looks. I would daydream of all the combinations I could try with bright-colored eyeliner, metallic eyeshadows, and glittery glosses. Anything and everything that I liked became inspiration for new makeup concepts.
Eventually, when I finished high school, I decided to take some time off since I graduated early and didn’t want to start school again right way. During this time, I decided to pursue my passion of makeup artistry. It started slow, as I was working in the service industry and hesitated to explore my options. But once I did, I quickly began trying out any and all makeup-related jobs I could find. So, since 2019 I have worked as a freelance MUA in many of Atlanta’s fashion, music, and commercial productions, as well as cosmetic retailers, salons, and studios all around the Atlanta area. As much as I loved each and every job I’ve tried, I learned what I liked and what I didn’t. And once I turned 20, I chose to leave behind all the jobs I was working to try working for myself for a change. Since then I have been working online as a content creator and continue traveling around Atlanta as a freelance artist for other creatives seeking a makeup artist with an edge!
I feel so overwhelmingly grateful and blessed to have the chance to do what I love on a daily basis. I am a type 1 diabetic with anxiety so this job has truly helped me cope with what my daily life entails. My emotions often get the best of me but I am able to channel all that energy into my artistry. And though life with T1D isn’t very fun, with daily insulin injections and an insistent sugar addiction, makeup is something I can always count on being enjoyable. It means the world to me that I am able to inspire others with my art and my story. Though I’m not very sure I do a good job telling it! Thank you so much for taking the time to read through all this, I hope it can inspire you to do what you love as well!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
“Your road to glory will be rocky but fulfilling.” I’ve had this fortune taped up to my mirror for so long I can’t seem to remember when it came to be in my possession. It has stared back at me for a while now, so it must’ve stuck around in my mind because it was the first thing I thought of when reading this question.
Of course, there have been setbacks but I can’t think of anything that would stop me from doing what I love. From being fired on set to not being paid for my hard work, there is always a chance something could go wrong. It’s life, and it happens whether you like it or not. I like to think of all the tough times as lessons. Because if it weren’t for the people who weren’t very nice to me, I wouldn’t have learned my worth. And if it weren’t for the people who didn’t like my style, I wouldn’t have found the people who do. Needless to say, my artistic journey has truly been a wild ride. Honestly, I’m as excited as ever to continue learning and growing from every opportunity (and obstacle) that comes my way.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a creative freelance makeup artist and content creator based in Atlanta.
What do you specialize in?
Unique concepts and beth-dazzling*.
*Beth-dazzle: Bedazzling by Beth, using rhinestones, glitter, pearls, and more!
Did I just make that up? Maybe. But it’s true!
What are you known for?
My eclectic style and unconventional techniques! I love playing around with different colors, textures, and mediums and taking inspiration from pretty much anything and everything.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my Melloween makeup series because I absolutely love Halloween! It’s been so much fun posting looks every day all October long for these past few years. I always put so much love into creating super fun conceptual makeup looks inspired by my favorite time of year, spooky season! I am also super proud of all my work alongside my clients. We always create magic, literally.
What sets you apart from others?
I truly believe in being fiercely and unapologetically me. I trust my instincts, and sometimes that can be a little scary. But it’s helped me get this far, and I can’t wait to see where else it’ll take me!
Pricing:
- $150 creative makeup artistry
Contact Info:
- Website: bmellomua.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/beth_mello
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@bethmello
Image Credits
Me and Kiya Lacey (red top): Michael Frederick, humantrip on instagram Me and Kiya Lacey (black top): t.xlr on instsgrarm
