Meet Cass Cooper | Owner | Artist

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

Hi Cass, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Before this I was an in-house Art Director for a marketing team. The hours were long and demanding. When the pandemic started our daycare closed. My work/life balance really took a hit as it was impossible to work from home. The demands of my job, along with the demands of our 1 year old, were too much. I was a first time mother navigating the depth of PPD without a village, everyone was in lockdown. I experienced complete creative burnout. In Sept. 2020 I left my career in hopes of finding a healthier work/life balance.

Then in early 2022 I discovered face painting on a whim. I quickly realized that it was a perfect job for me and really celebrated the stuff that brought me joy and that I was good at. Face painting gave me the flexibility I was seeking to be there for my family.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Throughout my life, I’ve had a strong passion for art, and working with kids has been a constant source of joy for me. I’ve taken on various roles, from being a dance teacher and a camp director to designing kids’ video games. At one point, I even considered pursuing a career as an elementary school teacher. So, when the opportunity to become a face painter presented itself, it was a smooth and natural transition for me.

Believe it or not, angel numbers like 11:11 and 2:22 777 played a large part in guiding me here. Whenever I see those numbers everywhere, I know it’s the universe telling me to keep going. But when they disappear, it’s a sign to slow down and take it easy. It might sound a bit offbeat, but it’s my truth. My 15 years of experience in creative marketing definitely played a role in making Mama Mia what it is today.

What sets me apart? Content creation is my jam! I love putting together behind-the-scenes reels and creating cute animated IG stories. Sharing relatable stuff for parents, moms, wives, gamers, EDM fans, and folks with ADHD is just icing on the cake. My IG is all about being sassy yet classy, and giving folks a peek into the every day life of a Creative Mompretuner.

Can you believe it? Mama Mia is about to celebrate its 1-year anniversary! I’m super proud of that

This weekend, I’ll be painting with Bodies and Beats at Immersive Arts Center in L.A. It’s my first NEON body art show as Lumi Body Art (my other creative project). Can’t wait for it!

Next month, we’re expanding our services with the Mama Mia Glitter Bar, featuring glitter tattoos, festival glitter and bling. It’s going to be a great addition, especially for Barbie parties!

My first face painting convention and master classes are coming up, and I can’t wait to get hands-on training and learn from exceptional artists and business owners.

Here’s what I really want the world to know – being a face painter is simply the best job ever. The most magical moment is that mirror reveal, when a child sees their freshly painted face. Their smiles, giggles, and the spark of imagination in their eyes – it never gets old. Seeing my art bring joy to everyone’s life is so fulfilling and I can’t wait to see what is to come next for Mama Mia.

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?
Oh man in our household we like bringing people to eat.

Some of our OC favorites
Sushi Imari
Los Compadres Long Beach
Korean BBQ
Roma De Italy
Baja Tacos
Hole Mole

Places we would visit as a family with a young kiddo
– Pretend City
– Candee Land in Main Place Mall
– Irvine Regional Park
– Bubble Pop
– Nickel Arcade in Garden Grove
– one of our favorite parks like Adventure Land in Irvine

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband – He has encouraged me every step of the way. Having his support allowed me to embrace this next chapter with open arms and fewer worries. He always reminds me to focus on the fun.

Shout out to our little “Princess Peach” Mia- Getting to be your mommy has opened my eyes to how precious time is. You are such a special kiddo and I am so lucky to be your mom.

To all my friends and family: those who fuel my diet coke addiction, understand how to read my cray-cray texts and love me for all of my authentic ADHDness… I appreciate each and every one of you.

Last shout out would be to the face painting community – you all have taught me so much, so many of you have been so open about your journey and I appreciate your willingness to share.

Website: www.mamamiafacepainting.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mamamiafacepainting.fb

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mama-mia-face-painting-tustin

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mamamiafacepainting

Image Credits
Hana Storybook.com