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

Hi Miriam, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Back in 2014, I felt a strong passion to create something that reflected both my love for makeup and my desire to help others feel confident and beautiful. That’s what inspired me to launch Arte Cosmetics. I started with the essentials—foundation, powder, and blush—because I believed in building a strong base that enhanced natural beauty. Over time, I expanded the line to include eyeshadows, eyeliners, and eyelashes, focusing on products that could bring out creativity and personality. The word “Arte” means “art” in Spanish, and that’s exactly what I wanted to offer—makeup as a form of personal expression. Starting my own brand wasn’t just about business; it was about creating something meaningful that empowered others through the art of beauty.

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.
Arte Cosmetics was born from a simple but powerful desire—to feel confident in my own skin and help others do the same. I’ve always loved the way makeup can transform not just how we look, but how we feel. My style blends glamour with longevity—flawless makeup that lasts all day without constant touch-ups. From there, Arte Cosmetics took shape, driven by my passion for high-quality, high-performance products and a commitment to helping everyday women express themselves through beauty.

What sets Arte Cosmetics apart is our dedication to excellence. We specialize in high-quality cosmetics with an extensive color selection, and we pride ourselves in using only the finest pigments and ingredients. All of our products are paraben-free, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, allergy-tested, non-comedogenic, and never tested on animals. We deliver luxury quality with accessible pricing—because every woman deserves the best.

Professionally, the road hasn’t always been easy. Building a brand from the ground up takes faith, sacrifice, and resilience. There were moments of doubt, financial setbacks, and the constant pressure of staying creative in a fast-moving industry. But I overcame those challenges with persistence, prayer, and the support of those who believed in me. Every obstacle became a lesson—whether it was about patience, trusting the process, or learning to ask for help when needed.

Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with diverse clients—from pageant queens and models to brides and quinceañeras. I’ve sponsored events like the PSA Fashion Show at the University of Houston and worked alongside brands like La Ve Vee Couture and Elite Physiques Models. These experiences have shaped my perspective: it’s not about following trends—it’s about setting them and creating a signature look that reflects who you are.

At the heart of Arte Cosmetics is the belief that beauty is about self-expression, not perfection. I want the world to know that this brand was created for real women—women who wear many hats and want to feel powerful, beautiful, and seen. With Arte, you don’t have to choose one identity—you can be whoever you want to be, whenever you want to be it. That’s the freedom beauty should bring.

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 do everything with my family, so when it comes to going out, we always look for places where we can enjoy great food and great company together. Some of our favorite spots are truly special to us.

Little Mustard Seed in Mont Belvieu, TX, is a wonderful place where you can enjoy a delicious meal while listening to worship music it’s such a peaceful and uplifting atmosphere. Another favorite is Chiludos, also in Mont Belvieu, which serves authentic Mexican food that we highly recommend.

When we’re in the mood for something sweet or a cozy coffee outing, we love Kaffeinated Crepes & Coffee in Webster, TX. For a special dinner, Chama Gaucha on Westheimer is always a treat I love seeing my boys and my princess enjoy their medium-rare cuts, and of course, my husband too. I’m the only oddball in the family who likes my steak very well done!

We also enjoy Otsuka in Deer Park, TX, for delicious Japanese cuisine, and Opus Ocean Grille in Clear Lake, which has amazing seafood and a lovely atmosphere. Honestly, the list goes on and on.
My husband is a true foodie he always seems to know the best spots in town, so our family is never short of great places to try. We don’t go clubbing or anything like that; we’re all about family time, good meals, and making memories together.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First of all, I want to thank God and my husband Joshua Gonzales they have been my number one support system. I’m very blessed to have my husband; he’s my best friend, my partner, my everything. We’re not perfect, but with God, we can do better and strive to be better every day. His love and support have carried me through every challenge and every success.
I also want to give a heartfelt shoutout to Jessica Vasquez, Sami Khaleeq, Estela Munguia, Rehan Siddiqi, and Leena Shah. Each of them has played such a special role in my journey. They’ve believed in me, supported my vision, and opened doors for opportunities that helped shape who I am today like becoming Ms. Texas back in 2016 and hosting The Dashing Dames Show on HUM FM 103.5. Their encouragement has meant the world to me.

Above all, I give my utmost thanks and recognition to God. Without Him, none of this would be possible. He has guided me, sustained me, and been so good to me and my family every step of the way. Every accomplishment I’ve had is a reflection of His grace in my life.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mua_miriamgonzales

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaringEyesCharmingBeauty

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mua_miriamgonzales?_t=ZP-8xs10dCe1CJ&_r=1

Image Credits
Self-portraits and Pageants:
Model: Miriam Gonzales
Photographer: Stephanie Quates
MUA: Miriam Gonzales
Hair Stylist: Miriam Gonzales

Western Photos:
Model: Ariela Ventura – Model with blue jean top
Photographer: Stephanie Quates
MUA: Miriam Gonzales
Hair Stylist: Estela Munguia

Western Photos:
Model: Jennifer Rodriguez – model with Black top, hat and tan flare pants,
Photographer: Stephanie Quates
MUA: Miriam Gonzales
Hair Stylist: Estela Munguia

Quinceanera photos:
Model: Kaylley Mya Gonzales
Photographer: Alec Julian Garza
MUA: Miriam Gonzales
Hair Stylist: Miriam Gonzales

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.