Meet Erika Pareja | Makeup Artist

“Without disappointment, you can’t appreciate victory”

I’ve been a makeup artist since 2011, as well as a licensed aesthetician. I’m all about enhancing your natural features, beauty comes from within. That being said, I am also versatile, I airbrush, do natural, dramatic, glam, editorial, avant garde and theatrical/halloween makeup. 2 years ago I really got into body painting costumes as well. I found that attention to detail to be very therapeutic for me in a weird way.

I’ve had so many wonderful opportunities in my career, like doing makeup for the Titan cheerleaders, showcasing an original makeup look I created for RAW artists, countless weddings and photoshoots, being featured on here. I’m proud of all of it but I’m still not where I want to be in my career. I’m working towards that goal. Currently, I’m working part time as an aesthetician at Sage Headspa in Brentwood (if you haven’t been, you NEED to, Japanese inspired head facials, talk about a heavenly experience) and freelancing makeup gigs. Don’t get me wrong, I love being an aesthetician and having that relaxing, pampering aspect but, my ultimate, dream job would be working as an editorial makeup artist for a magazine full time. That’s where I can say, I finally made it!!!

That’s a tough question with all the new places constantly opening up around town. Some of my favorite go tos.. Ugly Mugs in East and Two Ten Jack, my absolute favorite dinner spot!!! Everything on their menu is always outstanding. It’s a great vibe, great cocktails and the outside patio is awesome. 51st Deli, midnight oil and Maru in the nations are also some of fave local spots. Cornelia fort air park and McCabe greenways, Love circle at sunset. Definitely bar hop downtown for the music and drinks. Everyone needs to experience Broadway, in my opinion. End the night at Red Door or Old Glory in midtown for a night cap.