Being a Mom and a Full-Time MUA
How can two lives exist so fully at the same time?
One where I’m packing lunches, breaking up sibling arguments, and wiping sticky hands.
And another where I’m creating bridal timelines, blending eyeshadow, and showing up before sunrise to make someone feel like the most beautiful version of themselves.
Being a mom and a full-time makeup artist isn’t about balance — because balance implies everything is equal, neat, and predictable.
This life is anything but that.
Some days, motherhood feels all-consuming. Other days, my career lights me up in a way that reminds me who I am outside of being needed. And most days? The two intertwine in ways I never expected.
Motherhood Changed How I Show Up
Before kids, I thought success meant hustle. Longer days. More bookings. Saying yes to everything.
Motherhood softened that definition.
Now, success looks like efficiency instead of exhaustion. Presence instead of perfection. Choosing clients and opportunities that align with my values — not just my calendar.
I’m more intentional. More grounded. And surprisingly, more confident in my work than ever before.
When you only have limited hours, you learn how to make them matter.
The Makeup Chair Is My Creative Escape
There’s something sacred about the makeup chair.
It’s where conversations unfold naturally. Where women exhale. Where stories are shared quietly while mascara dries. It’s where I get to create — not just looks, but moments.
After a morning of mom life, stepping into that space reminds me that I’m still me. Still creative. Still ambitious. Still allowed to want more than one thing at once.
And I think that’s something we don’t talk about enough.
You can love your children deeply and love your career passionately. One doesn’t cancel out the other.
The Guilt (Because Let’s Be Honest)
Yes, the guilt shows up.
When I leave early for a wedding morning.
When I’m editing photos during nap time.
When my kids ask why I’m working again today.
But guilt doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It usually means you care — deeply — on both sides.
I remind myself that my children get to see a mother who builds something. Who loves her work. Who follows through on her commitments. Who shows up for other women.
That matters.
What This Life Has Taught Me
Being a mom and a makeup artist has taught me:
Time is precious
Confidence is contagious
Rest is productive
And fulfillment doesn’t come from choosing one role — it comes from honoring all of them
I no longer believe I have to shrink one part of myself to be good at another.
I can be nurturing and ambitious. Soft and driven. Present and successful.
To the Moms Chasing a Dream
If you’re a mom building something — quietly, imperfectly, beautifully — I see you.
You’re not behind.
You’re not doing too much.
And you’re not selfish for wanting a life that fulfills you.
You’re allowed to create.
You’re allowed to grow.
And you’re allowed to take up space — in motherhood and beyond.
This is my reminder.
And maybe, it’s yours too.
Anna K
