Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Contrera.

Hi Natalie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I began my career in retail sales as a makeup artist in a department store. It was an excellent foundation, allowing me to work with a diverse range of clients and perfect my skills.

Bridal makeup appealed to me because of the precision and creativity required. I loved being part of such special moments and creating looks that made brides feel beautiful and confident on their big day.

As my reputation grew, I started getting opportunities in corporate and commercial projects like photo shoots and fashion shows. This work required adaptability and collaboration, which broadened my perspective and skill set.

Currently, I focus on commercial projects and creative direction. I enjoy being involved in the conceptual side of shoots and campaigns, ensuring the makeup complements the overall creative vision.

I co-founded Mango Marketing Co. to combine my creative skills with strategic marketing. We offer comprehensive services including creative direction, branding, and marketing strategies to help businesses tell their stories effectively.

I’m excited to continue exploring new trends and techniques in commercial work and creative direction. Through Mango Marketing Co., I aim to push the boundaries of traditional marketing and create impactful visual narratives.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. In the beginning, working in retail was challenging due to the high demands and constant pressure to meet sales targets while providing exceptional service. Transitioning to bridal makeup came with its own set of challenges, such as managing the high expectations and emotions of brides on their wedding day.

Moving into commercial work required me to adapt quickly to different environments and collaborate with a variety of professionals, which was initially daunting.

Additionally, starting Mango Marketing Co. involved a steep learning curve in business management and marketing strategy. However, each challenge taught me valuable lessons and helped me grow both personally and professionally.

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 specialize in makeup artistry with a focus on commercial work and creative direction. I started in retail sales, moved into bridal makeup, and now primarily work on photo shoots, fashion shows, and advertisements. My strength lies in creating cohesive looks that align with the overall creative vision of a project. I’m known for my adaptability and ability to collaborate effectively with photographers, models, and creative directors.

What I’m most proud of is co-founding Mango Marketing Co., where we offer creative direction, branding, and marketing strategies. This venture allows me to blend my artistic skills with strategic thinking to help businesses tell compelling visual stories.

What sets me apart is my diverse experience across different facets of the makeup industry, from retail and bridal to commercial work. This breadth of experience enables me to bring a unique perspective to each project, ensuring that the makeup not only enhances the individual’s features but also fits seamlessly into the broader creative concept. My commitment to continuous learning and innovation also keeps my work fresh and relevant.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Several things make me happy, and I feel incredibly grateful for each of them. Traveling is a big passion of mine; exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and meeting new people always bring me joy and inspiration. Art, in all its forms, fuels my creativity and allows me to see the world from diverse perspectives.

Staying active is another source of happiness for me. Moving my body, whether through yoga, pilates, or nights out dancing, helps me feel energized and connected to myself. Cooking is a form of therapy for me, and I love experimenting with new recipes. I love cooking my cultural dishes as an Arab American. Sharing these meals with friends and family and seeing them enjoy my food is incredibly rewarding.

Above all, my relationships with my friends and family are what I cherish most. Their support, love, and laughter are the foundation of my happiness. I have so much to be grateful for, and these aspects of my life continually remind me of how fortunate I am.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nattycontrera.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nattycontrera
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/nattycontreraartistry
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/@thenattycontrera
• Other: www.tiktok.com/@nattycontrera

Image Credits
photo of me: www.instagram.com/Mangomarketing.co photo of BTS + model: https://www.instagram.com/khymphtgrphy/