Meet Danielle Gabriel | Makeup Artist

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

Hi Danielle, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
When I was younger (35 is creeping up on me soon) I was unable to say, “no,” to anyone or anything. I am a people pleaser by nature and it was incredibly difficult for me to feel like I let someone down. So, for the longest time I had no work life balance. I said yes to every job, every event, every request. Over time, I became burned out. I had to teach myself that it was ok to say no to things that did not spark joy with me or I knew I simply did not have the time for. Having children also really made me change how I manage my time. Now, I have a life / work balance where life comes first and then work. At the beginning of every year I sit down and look at the calendar for the New Year. I block off every day my children are out of school, their Spring Break, Christmas holiday, etc. I plan ahead and know when we will take a weekend trip, a long vacation, or just enjoy some family time alone. Every time I have done this, I have had such a great balance. I set boundaries for myself and it truly keeps me loving what I do!

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.
In the field of makeup and hair artists the competition is quite large. However, no artist is the same! Studio DG Beauty is a boutique makeup and hair company. I strive to have a personal level of communication with each person that inquires with me and sits in my chair. Each and every client to me is so special.

I started my business in 2014. I had a 1 year old and was pregnant with baby #2. I wanted to do something I loved but also give my daughters something to be proud of me for. It was not easy. In fact, I even shut my business down for a couple years, It ate at me everyday that I wasn’t following my dreams so when I did decide to pick back up I had to start over but I was determined to give it my all. Reading really helped me keep me focused. I read (well listened to) a lot of books geared toward the female entrepreneur. My favorite was Girl Code by Cara Alwill Leyba. I also have the most amazing support system from my husband, children, sisters and friends. Having your people in your corner cheering you on makes it impossible for you to want to give up! I am so proud of how far I have come building my brand from the ground up. It takes time and dedication and it is not always easy. I still have more I want to accomplish and I am excited to branch out and grow my business to it’s full potential in the next couple of years.

I think the biggest lesson I have learned throughout these years is that time is fleeting and to go for whatever it is that fulfills you. If it doesn’t work out the first time, that is ok. Sitting back down at the drawing board isn’t always a bad thing. It gives you a chance to re-evaluate your goals and what it is going to take to get there.

I just want people to know that I do truly love what I do. I love when I am done with a client and they look in the mirror and I see joy come across their faces. I have laughed with my clients, cried with them and hugged them as if they are my oldest friend. Each person matters to me. I work with beautiful people everyday and I am just enhancing them. I want you to feel like your best self and love the work I have done.

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?
Well, my cousin from Wisconsin is coming here next month and she is one of my best friends! We have to eat at Berryhill in the Heights because I mean, who doesn’t love fish tacos? Also, I worked there all through college so it has a special place in my heart. We will also be visiting Blacksmith, Common Bond, Tiny Boxwoods and can’t forget the best bbq at Killen’s BBQ.

We aren’t big drinkers but I do love a good Bloody Mary so Onion Creek would have to be the place for that!

I’m not sure if many readers know this but Houston has some quirky little museums and one of those is The Funeral Museum. I know it sounds weird but it is a cool museum and we plan on going to it again! Side bit – I REALLY want to get into that industry. I want people to look at their loved ones and see the person they remember. Back on topic, we will also visit the new Holocaust Museum. Man, we sound like some morbid people. Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens is on the list as well! The property is gorgeous and so peaceful to walk through. After we do the local thing, I am going to take her on the short drive to Austin. She needs to experience Austin and also visit my most favorite place on earth – Krause Springs.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have to dedicate this shoutout to my husband and children. They are my biggest cheerleaders and go above and beyond for me when I need it! They have encouraged me, been my models and even my little worker bees when needed. Always with.

Website: www.studiodgbeauty.com

Instagram: @studiodg_beauty

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

Image Credits
Ivory House Portraits