Meet Massiel Navedo: Makeup and Lash Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Massiel Navedo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Massiel, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born in Managua, Nicaragua, and migrated to Miami, Florida with my family at the age of 2. I grew up in the City of Miami until the age of 8, then moved to South Miami in the town of Cutler Bay. When I lived there it was known as Cutler Ridge and it will forever be my home. I’m the 4th out of 5 children. My Mother and Step-Father worked tirelessly to provide everything we needed. We were not rich in material things but we had each other. Seeing my parents work so hard, my mom with 2 jobs and eventually opening up her own business, her Flower shop, and keeping her shop open during all seasons no matter the obstacles, made me realize that we are all capable of anything we truly want. It just takes a little courage, consistency and lots of sacrificing. I learned at a young age that failure was not an option because my parents worked too hard to see me fail. They worked day and night, minimum wage jobs to make sure we earned a higher lever education and rewarding careers. After graduating with my Bachelors in Finance from Florida International University, and pursuing a career in Banking for 10 years, deciding to leave the corporate world was the most difficult battle for me. However, knowing that I wanted to be not only an amazing mother, but also a present mother to my children, made the decision fairly easy. My husband and I prepared ourselves financially as best as we could for over a year for a change that we thought we could predict, but oh boy were we in for bigger surprises than we expected. Once I realized that earning an income as a Full-time Makeup artist in Miami was attainable, I put to work everything I learned from my parents – and did just that! I went to work. I put my name out there, attended networking events, went to trainings. I became certified, participate in many unpaid jobs, did it all with the understanding that because I made a huge career change, I was once again a student, making me humble, hungry and eager to work.  I have come a long way from the artist needing recognition and validation. I know what I bring to the table, while still understanding, I am forever a student. No job is too big or small for my art.  I feel balanced and I understand the importance of hard work all because my parents sacrificed everything for us to succeed.    

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I strive to be the best version of myself and truly am my own biggest critic. The one thing that sets me apart from the rest, is that I don’t aim to compete with anyone but myself. Getting my Makeup career started was not easy. This isn’t for the faint at heart. Makeup artistry requires so much behind the scenes work. Not to mention cleaning and sanitation, continued education to improve on your skills and techniques. Lastly, all the money that it takes to put your makeup kit together to cater to all types of events, skin tones and skin types. I’ve learned to always put my whole hearted effort into every job. Getting any Glam service done is something that should make you feel stress free, gorgeous and the best version of yourself, if I’m the person doing that job and haven’t made you feel that, then I’ve failed. I did not commit to this career to be a failure. Being a professional, requires more than technique, personality is the other piece of the puzzle. At the end of the day if people enjoy your presence and your work is beautiful, you’ll always have work. I’ve learned from all experiences, the good and the bad ones. One of my most recent and greatest achievements is currently having the role as lead Makeup Artist for the industry’s leading Energy Drink Company – Bang Energy. Every day in the office with Bang, is literally a reminder that with a good attitude, creative mindset and a room full of dedication; growth is inevitable. I am to build confidence through my work and remind everyone that beauty is truly from within. Just like the muscles in your body need constant movement to help keep you strong so does confidence. Confidence is also a muscle that needs attention, this is something we forget about and I aim to help anyone in my chair exercise that important factor in their mental state. 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love to eat; I’d definitely take my friends to Lincoln Rd. in Miami Beach for a good time and some yummy food!  I also am the biggest fan of Mexican food; I would take them to some spots here in Homestead for some yummy authentic Mexican spots.  

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband definitely deserves this shout out and so much credit. He’s my biggest supporter of all my ideas. As my manager, he aids in my decision making and supports all my craziness. He is my balance and is always present for both, home personal life with our babies and for my business when I need it most. Not only does he manage my budget for all creatives, he also provides me with ideas on being cost effective. He encourages my growth, from creating our up-and-coming in-home studio to all my state requirements and licensing. He truly is a gem and without his help on keeping me balance mentally, emotionally and loving me whole Heartly , I honestly don’t think I would be where I am today. A HUGE thank you to my bewildering, encouraging, loving, confidant, and my biggest advocate , my Husband – Jesus .

Instagram: Www.Instagram.com/miabymassiel
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