Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Lopez.
Hi Ariel , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started doing makeup on myself when I was around 14, just black eyeliner and mascara, but I instantly fell in love with how it made me feel. As a shy kid, makeup gave me confidence and a sense of transformation that I wanted others to experience too. Around that time, my mom became a foster mom, and my new “sisters” let me experiment on them with different looks. What started as a hobby quickly grew into a true passion.
After high school, I realized traditional schooling wasn’t for me, so my family encouraged me to pursue makeup professionally. I attended Make-up Designory in NYC and completed their Multimedia Makeup Artist program. When I returned to Nashville, I met Cherokee Hart, who helped me land my first movie set job, and from there I worked on films, music videos, and photoshoots. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with special event and bridal clients, SFX projects, and more. I’m so grateful for how far this journey has taken me and for every opportunity I’ve received along the way.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road, but it’s definitely been an amazing journey despite the challenges. Being a makeup artist was tough for me at first because I’ve always been more laid back and not very outspoken. Early on, I had to step out of my comfort zone much more than I expected. I did my best to deliver everything I could on every job, but when the slow seasons came, I had to find the motivation to keep going. I learned that as a makeup artist, there will be times when you aren’t booked every day and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean you aren’t good at what you do or that your personality doesn’t stand out on set. You just have to trust your craft, stay consistent, and know that the busy seasons always come back around. All I needed to do was keep going.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a professional makeup artist based in Nashville, and I specialize in beauty, bridal, and multimedia makeup, including film, photoshoots, and music videos. I’ve also worked in SFX and special event makeup, which has really allowed me to explore every side of creativity within the industry.
What I’m most proud of is the versatility I’ve developed over the years and the relationships I’ve built along the way. I love that my work gives me the chance to make people feel confident, beautiful, and seen, whether it’s a bride on her wedding day or an actor stepping onto set. I think what sets me apart is my ability to create a calm, comfortable environment for my clients while still delivering high-quality, detailed work. I truly care about every person who sits in my chair, and my goal is always to help them feel like the best version of themselves.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, I want to continue growing as an artist and expanding my experience in all areas of makeup. I’d love to work on more film and television projects, travel for destination weddings, and collaborate with other creatives who inspire me. Makeup has already opened so many doors for me, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next. My biggest goal is to keep doing what I love, meeting amazing people, and continuing to make others feel confident and beautiful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slayedbyariell/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slayedbyariell/
