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

Hi Justin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I have been working for other people my whole life and I really felt like it was time for me to start making my own rules! I have been a makeup artist for about 15 years but have always had a full time job for security and comfort. After the events of the past 2 years, I have changed the way I am thinking about my future. I no longer want to be controlled by other peoples schedules, rules, policies. I needed to start thinking about myself and my future and what that would look like in this new world we have. I am only responsible for my life and i am making the choice to work to live and not the other way around.

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.
I have been a Makeup artist for over 15 years specializing in theatrical, transformation, and drag makeup. So I take this experience and unique outlook and incorporate that detail and imagination to all my work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Living in San Diego means there is never enough time to do it all! Im a big fan of the outdoors so I would start with a stroll around Balboa Park. The museums, gardens, trails etc. you can really spend a whole day there. Right next door is the famous San Diego Zoo so thats a definite must! Next we would head to Downtown and explore everything that has to offer. The waterfront is a favorite of mine. Stroll through Little Italy for pizza and gelato. Then to Gaslamp for drinks and nightlife. So many great little neighborhoods to explore but my favs are Hillcrest with all the little shops and restaurants. Not to mention Hillcrest being the major LGBTIQ center of the city so there is plenty of restaurants and clubs packs with events!

I love a good farmers market and thankfully San Diego has one every day of the week in different parts of the city. So that a great ay to explore and experience local food, art and entertainment.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My boyfriend has been there with me through this whole journey and he has pushed me, inspired me and drove me crazy to get things done! He has supported me when I wanted to start trainings and give up my regular full time job. He has really been amazing through this journey.

ersonalJustinParker

Website: www.justinparkermua.com

Instagram: @JustinParkerStudios

Facebook: JustinParkerStudios

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal 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.