We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lauren Tongco. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lauren below.
Lauren, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?
“Mirth MUA” began its journey when I was just 18 years old and stumbled upon the word “mirth” in the English dictionary. Discovering its meaning – happiness through laughter – sparked a profound curiosity within me. I embarked on a quest, scouring the pages of dictionaries, delving into passages of the Bible, and immersing myself in the vast expanse of Google, all in pursuit of a deeper understanding of this concept that resonated so strongly with me.
You see, laughter has always been my solace, my haven amidst life’s challenges. It brings me immeasurable joy, and I’ve witnessed its transformative power firsthand in the lives of those around me. It was this deep connection to the essence of mirth that inspired me to merge it with my passion for makeup artistry.
And thus, “mirth MUA” was born – a fusion of happiness and artistry, laughter and beauty. It wasn’t just a name; it was a statement, a testament to my belief in the transformative power of joy. I wanted people to see my brand and feel a sense of curiosity, to wonder about its meaning and significance.
With “express beauty from the inside out” as my guiding philosophy, I set out to redefine the role of a makeup artist. It wasn’t merely about enhancing external appearances; it was about tapping into the inner radiance of each individual, bringing forth their true essence through the art of makeup. In my chair, amidst brushes and palettes, I sought to create a space where transformation transcended the physical, where words and inspiration intertwined to craft a vision of beauty that emanated from within.
For me, true beauty isn’t skin-deep; it radiates from the soul, illuminating the world with its brilliance. And through “mirth MUA,” I endeavor to share this message with the world, one client at a time.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Lauren, and also the creative force behind “Mirth MUA.” Let me take you on a journey through my world of makeup artistry, where passion meets expertise and beauty knows no bounds.
My love affair with makeup began at the age of 19, when I took a leap of faith and applied for a seasonal position at Sephora while navigating through college. Though my stint there was short-lived due to academic commitments, it was there that I honed my skills in customer service, branding, marketing, and product knowledge. It laid the groundwork for my future endeavors in the beauty industry.
But fate had grander plans in store for me. A few months later, I found myself at a MAC Cosmetics casting call, fueled by a quiet determination and a swipe of my favorite lipstick – “Heroine” by MAC, a bold hue that felt like a talisman of good fortune. After three grueling interviews, I emerged victorious, securing my dream job with MAC Cosmetics.
MAC had always held a special place in my heart. From the age of 13, I was captivated by their products – the sleek packaging, the vibrant colors, the impeccable formulas. My first makeup set, a birthday gift from my mom, contained the iconic Studio Fix Powder, a mesmerizing Lipglass, and the enchanting Woodwinked eyeshadow. It was love at first sight, and I immersed myself in the world of makeup, devouring tutorials from YouTube gurus who would later become titans of the beauty industry.
As a self-taught makeup artist, I drew inspiration from the trailblazers of the industry – Sephora, MAC Cosmetics, and countless others who pushed the boundaries of beauty and set trends on a global scale. But it was more than just makeup; it was about empowerment, about helping people feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.
What sets “Mirth MUA” apart from the rest is not just my skill with a brush or my knowledge of products, but my ability to create a safe space where clients can shed their inhibitions and embrace their true selves. Whether it’s for a special occasion like prom, a birthday bash, or simply a desire to feel extraordinary, I strive to enhance your natural beauty while fostering an unforgettable experience.
I am most proud of the relationships I’ve built and the transformations I’ve witnessed – not just physical, but emotional. To me, makeup is more than just a tool for enhancement; it’s a catalyst for self-love and confidence.
So, to all potential clients, followers, and fans, I invite you to join me on this journey of expressing beauty from the inside out – one brushstroke at a time.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Building my reputation within the market has been a journey shaped by several key factors. First and foremost, I believe in the power of relationships. Treating people with respect, gratitude, and kindness has been foundational in earning the trust and admiration of friends, family, and peers. When you conduct yourself with integrity and authenticity, your reputation naturally flourishes.
Moreover, I’ve embraced the philosophy of continuous improvement. By relentlessly practicing my craft on friends and family, I honed my skills while simultaneously building a loyal clientele base. Their referrals served as a testament to the quality of my work, amplifying my presence within the industry.
In today’s interconnected world, the influence of social media cannot be overstated. Leveraging platforms like Instagram and Facebook allowed me to showcase my artistry to a broader audience, attracting potential clients and collaborators. Consistent, high-quality content and engaging with my audience helped me establish a strong digital presence, further solidifying my reputation as a reputable makeup artist.
Additionally, networking played a pivotal role in my journey. I’ve always believed that success is as much about who you know as it is about what you know. Through serendipitous encounters and intentional networking efforts, I’ve had the privilege of working with influential individuals whose support and endorsement bolstered my confidence and credibility as an artist.
Ultimately, it’s been a combination of skill, perseverance, and genuine connections that have propelled me forward in the industry. By staying true to myself, nurturing relationships, and continuously refining my craft, I’ve been able to carve out a niche and establish a reputation that I’m proud of.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Yes, my resilience story is finally achieving my dream of moving to LA after 14 years while pursuing a career as a makeup artist. Born in LA and raised in Vegas since I was 5 years old, my heart had always longed for the vibrant energy and opportunities of Los Angeles since I was 18. However, life and God had different plans for me during those years of waiting.
Initially, I aspired to attend UCLA and pursue a degree in business management. Yet, my path led me to UNLV, where I studied journalism and media studies with a minor in marketing. For seven years, I navigated the corporate world in digital marketing, utilizing my talents and skills while nurturing my passion for makeup artistry.
Despite the detours and unexpected turns, I remained steadfast in my pursuit. Every twist and turn seemed to lead me closer to my purpose. I refused to give up on the dream that had been planted in my heart so many years ago. Although I contemplated the stability of the corporate route, my passion, fire, and determination propelled me to take a leap of faith into the world of entrepreneurship, forging my own path and making a name for myself in the beauty industry.
For me, LA was always more than just a destination; it was home. And now that I’ve finally returned, I couldn’t be happier. Everything fell into place at the right time and in the right way, as if the pieces of the puzzle had finally aligned, revealing the bigger picture before my eyes.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mirthmua.com
- Instagram: mirthmua
Image Credits
@elev8agency