"If you asked me what I'd bring to a deserted island, one of my answers would still be makeup." I remember saying that during a college class discussion years ago. A classmate laughed and said, "Why would you bring makeup ? No one else is there." Without hesitation I answered, "Because I don't wear makeup for other people. I wear it because it's a form of self-expression for me."

At the time, I wasn't planning to become a makeup artist. Looking back, though, I realize that moment perfectly captured how I had always felt about makeup. To me, makeup has never been about impressing others or becoming someone you're not. It's about confidence, self-expression, and feeling like the best version of yourself.

I was always fascinated by makeup. I was the friend who got excited whenever someone asked me to apply even a little mascara. Although I once dreamed of becoming a psychologist or social worker because I wanted to help people, I eventually realized that makeup gave me another way to do exactly that. There is something incredibly rewarding about watching someone light up when they see themselves in the mirror.

I came to the United States as an international student in the 90s, expecting to return to Japan after graduating from college. Instead, I decided to follow my passion and enrolled in makeup school upon graduation. What began as a lifelong love for makeup soon became my career, and I haven't looked back since. That was 24 years ago.

Now based in Los Angeles, I've spent the past 24 years doing what I love most. I feel incredibly grateful to meet people from all walks of life through my work. Every face is unique, and every client brings their own story—it's an honor to be a small part of those stories.