Meet Monica Sabatelli: Professional Makeup Artist for Film and TV

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

Hi Monica, what do you attribute your success to?
When I was young I felt extremely out of place in the environment I was in, while everyone was talented at math, science and writing, I was saving every penny I could find to buy makeup. Looking back I spent many years feeling inadequate because I wasn’t great at school, meanwhile I had classmates lining up at my door for me to do their makeup, even nicknaming me “Makeup Monica”. I knew that there was something more for me past the four walls of a classroom. I knew that my skills would one day be valued and appreciated, but as a young adult that can be difficult to grasp. The following years I proceeded to go through the motions of community college to please my parents and do what was “normal”. I felt stuck, unhappy, and unsure of what my future was going to hold. I knew I saw a light at the end of the tunnel, I just didn’t know how I was going to get there.

I was fortunate enough to have a close friend in my life who helped my dreams fall into place by giving me the advice I desperately needed to hear, just go for it. She gave me the courage to stand up for myself and not take no for an answer. I was walking through a life that wasn’t meant for me and I needed to follow my dreams, as cheesy as that may sound. Despite the lack of support from my family, who were still not convinced doing makeup was a real career, and the hardships I knew I would face, I decided to take the biggest risk of my life and move to LA. I quit my community college classes, busted my butt waiting tables and put a deposit down for the best professional makeup school in the world. Creating art and making people feel beautiful was never going to get old for me, this was my path and my purpose. When you want something as bad as you want to breathe, you make it happen. These were trying times for me, I found myself questioning my abilities. Would I ever be good enough or successful enough for those around me to take me seriously? I never took no for an answer because there was always a voice in my head saying “You Got This!”

What is the most important factor behind my success? Success is multifaceted. There is not one defining factor, there are many. For me it’s my hard work, determination and the power of manifestation. I found my purpose in life and I wake up everyday fighting for that. It’s not always sunshine and rainbows. There are many things I have to sacrifice because of my irregular work schedule, 16 hour back to back set days, and difficult clients, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I have spent years manifesting this life that I have now and if I didn’t believe in myself and push myself everyday to achieve my goals who knows where I would be. A favorite quote of mine says “If you can imagine a future event in your life based on any one of your personal desires, that reality already exists as a possibility in the quantum field, waiting to be observed by you.” – Dr. Joe Dispenza. The reality of our dreams is waiting for us, it is possible to achieve the success you want if you believe it to be true. Fast forward to today, living this amazing life I have, accompanied by the growing support of my parents and those around me, I think of my six year old self and how proud she would be of me. I am humbled by the success I have experienced and grateful for the fire that continues to grow inside of me.

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 am a Professional Makeup artist and Hairstylist in the entertainment industry, but also work with other clients for advertising, print, and even weddings. I have many personality traits and professional habits that set me apart from others. I work very well with people in any situation. I am patient and accommodating to all of my clients. Professionally, I have been in almost every type of set environment, so I adapt very easily because not all set environments are the same. Time is money, so being on time is extremely important. Staying professional, no matter the situation, is something people respect, which makes me reliable. Every work day is an opportunity to learn something new and acquire new skills or problem solving tactics.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I live in the heart of Los Angeles and there are so many fun places to visit! From amazing restaurants to legendary comedy clubs, you would never run out of things to do. I would absolutely visit Santa Monica. Of course there is the beautiful beach, Third Street Promenade, and amazing bars and restaurants like The Bungalow and 1212. West Hollywood is so vibrant and you can’t help but feel the happy environment. There are so many restaurants like Pump, Tom Tom, Conservatory, and Drag Bingo at Hamburger Mary’s. One of my go to bar spots is E.P & L.P. with one of the coolest rooftop bars and amazing LA views. Sunset Blvd. is another amazing strip. The 1 Hotel has an amazing lounge and rooftop bar. The Hollywood area also has amazing nightlife. Some of my favorite spots there are Mama Shelter, No Vacancy, and Hotel Cafe which has incredible live music. Runyon Canyon is a great hike with views from the Vally all the way to the ocean. My favorite comedy spots are The Laugh Factory and Comedy Store. And of course, you can’t miss the Melrose Trading Post on Sunday’s for the best flea market finds.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My loving Family and Friends, I wouldn’t be here today without you guys!

Website: https://sabatellistyles.wixsite.com/monicasabatellimua

Instagram: sabatellistyles

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-usLbn3aSHQINjiSMI1rdg