"I was 7 years old when a cousin of mine gave me a Pink Lipstick . I instantly fell in love with it. Growing up, I had family members working in the cosmetics industry, and make up was something that was always in my life.

My aunt was a make up artist and took me along to freelancing jobs. I learned so much from her, and I am so grateful to her till this day. I've always been a girlie-girl and loved to dress up and play with make up. I still do! Currently I'm working for a cosmetics company, and freelance as well. I love making people feel great about themselves and showing those that are terrified of make up that there is nothing to be scared of. If you make a mistake, just wash up and try again!

The make up artist I admire the most are Kevyn Aucoin and Gordon Espinet. I met Gordon at a young age. He did my make up for my cousin's wedding - I looked at myself in the mirror and was awestruck, I felt so beautiful and was amazed at how he changed my face in such a short amount of time.

I'm influenced creatively by everything from nature to art. Every moment in life can inspire creativity. The most important tools I own are my mind to conceive ideas and my hands to create them. Through the years I learned that make up is an art form like any other, where the human face and body are the canvas that can be transformed into incredible works of art."

Stephanie Pacheco, Make Up Artist