With over 11 years of experience in the makeup industry and a childhood spent in several family-owned salons, professional makeup artist and esthetician Tonya Gabriel has a passion for making everyone feel stunning in the skin they are in.
After receiving her dream job at MAC Cosmetics in 2012, by 2018, this boss went on to open her own beauty salon, the Beauty Marke Lounge in Phoenix! Nothing stops this fierce makeup pro as she climbs to the top as one of Arizona's most in-demand artists for events, photoshoots, and more!
As Mel.Media favorite, we sat down with Tonya Gabriel at the opening of her new Beauty Mark Lounge to get to know her better!
Hey Tonya, tell me a little about yourself and how you got into the world of aesthetics! I've been licensed for 11 years!
I got my inspiration from growing up with my family that owned salons. I was always a creative type and knew makeup was my passion.
I decided to go to esthetics school to learn more in that field and to have my license made official.
I decided to go to esthetics school to learn more in that field and to have my license made official.
I got my dream job at MAC Cosmetics in 2012. By 2018 I decided to take a chance on myself full-time and started Beauty Mark Lounge.
I am now a full-time entrepreneur!
Besides makeup, does the Beauty Mark Lounge provide any other services to clients?
Yes! I offer spray tans, waxing, brow lamination, lash lifts, and dermaplane facials.
Why do you love this industry, and what makes you so passionate about it that you decided to make this your career?
I love this industry because there will always be a need for it. I love to be creative, and this field allows me to be myself and create a safe space for my clients. I love being in a role where I can help people feel confident by bringing out their beauty!
Also, being part of my client's special occasions is very rewarding.
Any tips and tricks you can tell our audience about makeup, or do you see any new trends for 2023?
I see a lot of new trends for brows: bleached, brow art, colored… just please don't over-tweeze even if it is trendy!
Less is more with any makeup application, and please WEAR SPF DAILY!
Do you have any particular products you love at the moment?
Supergoop Glowscreen (spf)
Fenty Invisimatte Setting + Blotting Powder & Gloss Bomb in Fenty Glo
MAC Macstack Mascara Sjolie Skin Perfecting Lotion (can be purchased at my Beauty Mark Lounge)
A lot of makeup out there is horrible for individuals' skin. Any advice you can give when it comes to choosing products? Any ingredients people should avoid?
Learn your skin type and find a foundation that compliments your needs, not trends.
Makeup is meant to be fun and help bring out your natural beauty. My most crucial advice is to wash your face nightly and follow up with a skin routine that best suits you!
What's one piece of advice you would give to someone entering this industry?
BE YOURSELF! Don't waste time comparing yourself to others because your creativity makes you unique. Don't be afraid of failure because the faster you fail, the quicker you learn!
Where can people book you, or how can someone get in touch about services?
The best way to book is online at www.beautymarklounge.com!
