Story & Lesson Highlights with Vanessa Cortes of Avondale AZ

Vanessa Cortes shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Good morning Vanessa, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I am most proud of building my audience on social media and building my clientele. People just see that I create content but they don’t see behind the scenes and how much work actually goes into every video, photo, transition etc.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Vanessa Cortes, and I’m the makeup artist behind makeupbyvanee_. I specialize in creating soft glam, bold beauty, and everything in between for all types of events and special occasions. What makes my brand unique is my ability to bring out each client’s natural beauty while tailoring every look to their personal style. My goal is to make every person who sits in my chair feel confident, radiant, and seen. I’m currently growing my brand by taking on more bookings, building my portfolio, and connecting with more amazing clients who love glam just as much as I do.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself is the one I’ve built with myself. Learning to trust my instincts, value my creativity, and give myself grace through challenges has changed everything, from how I work, to how I show up for others. Of course, I’ve had amazing support from family and friends, but it wasn’t until I truly started believing in myself that I began to see my own strength, worth, and potential. That inner relationship is what gave me the confidence to build my brand and follow my passion.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “Trust your journey and be patient with yourself. Everything you’re learning now is building the foundation for the amazing person and artist you’re becoming.” I’d remind myself that it’s okay to make mistakes and that every step, even the tough ones, are part of growth and discovery.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
The person I admire most for their character is my mom. She’s taught me so much about kindness, resilience, and humility, not through power or status, but through the way she shows up every day with love and strength. Her ability to stay calm under pressure, support others selflessly, and face challenges with grace inspires me constantly. She’s a true example of genuine character, and I strive to bring that same spirit into my own life and work.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing? 
The thing I would regret not doing is fully pursuing my passion and sharing my creativity with the world. I don’t want to look back and wonder what could have been if I hadn’t taken the leap to build my makeup brand, express myself artistically, and connect with others through my work. Life is too short to hold back on dreams, so I’m determined to keep pushing forward, taking risks, and making the most of every opportunity.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeupbyvanee_?igsh=enQ1ZHJ6OTNxZTU4&utm_source=qr