Meet Maria Jose Contreras | Permanent makeup artist and student

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Jose Contreras and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria Jose, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business began with a personal interest of doing makeup specially brows. I was motivated of this interest of mine and found personal fulfillment in bringing confidence in people through the art of semi permanent makeup. I’m currently part of the Huizenga Business Innovation Academy at Nova Southeastern, which is a program that encourages students to start their own business by their third year. Being part of this academy helped and guided me to open up my business in the beauty industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I would say something that sets me apart from other artists is my personalized approach with each of my clients. I try to learn and understand each client’s unique preferences, facial features, and desired outcome. In all good honesty, I’m relatively new to the industry but I’m most excited to meet my clients expectations and reach my goals. It took me two years to formalize this idea and start my business on it. As of now I would say it’s not as easy as I thought it would be, but I plan to put the work in and hustle through the challenge that come with having your business. Some lessons I have learned along the way is not to persist until you get results, and also the importance of acknowledging your small wins. Something I would like the world to know about the Highlight Beauty MC is that we have our clients best interest to positively impact them. We believe that permanent makeup is not just about enhancing appearances but also about instilling self-confidence and empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

After picking up my friend from the airport, we’d head straight to one of Fort Lauderdale’s beaches, I like going to Las Olas Beach. After that we would dine in one of my favorite restaurants called “Solluna”, then go back to my place and relax.

Day 2: Water Activities and Shopping

We’d start the day with an exciting water activity like jet skiing, or paddle boarding along the Intracoastal Waterway. Afterward, we’d explore the vibrant Las Olas Boulevard, known for its shops, boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. We could also visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a beautiful historic estate with stunning gardens and artwork.

Day 3: Everglades Adventure

I personally haven’t done an everglade tour, but I feel like it would be a nice thing to experience.

Day 4: Cultural Exploration

We could visit the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, which has a collection of modern and contemporary art. Afterward, we could stroll through the historic district of Stranahan House, the oldest surviving structure in Broward County, and learn about the city’s history.

Day 5: visit the Wynwood area

We’d spend the day walking around the various murals and try different foods. On the weekends, they have a bunch of stands with a variety of cultural foods.

Day 6: Day Trip to Miami

We could explore neighborhoods like South Beach, visit iconic attractions like the Art Deco Historic District, enjoy delicious cuisine at a trendy restaurant.

Day 7: Shopping

On the last day, we’d start with some souvenir shopping at the Sawgrass Mills, one of the largest outlet malls. I would also like to drive to Brickell Centre Mall at night to have a good ending of the trip.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would say my family. They have always been my number 1 supporters, and also some of the faculty at Nova Southeastern University.

Website: Highlightbeautymc.com

Instagram: Highlight_Beauty_mc

Linkedin: Maria Jose Contreras