Makeup Artist, Entrepreneur
MP Makeup Artistry
Age: 36
Makeup could merely mean lipstick and mascara but Mandy Paavola blows through these simple cosmetic touches like a hurricane. Makeup can also be physically transformative and a way to unlock what’s inside someone.
Paavola is a master of makeup and a star in Prince George’s arts scene. She has two Leo Awards (B.C. film industry) for her makeup work, she was acclaimed for her abstract painting at this year’s Art Battle event, and she’s gotten multiple Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards nominations for turning it into a local enterprise.
“It’s very easy to be negative. I help everyone see their inner beauty,” she said. “I am passionate about impacting others in a positive manner. I don’t just do makeup or help a grad find a gown – I help those often when they didn’t know they needed help. I love my job, and running my charity fills my heart.”
Paavola started her career with an Art & Design degree at Kootenay School of the Arts, then graduated tops in her makeup class at college, and went directly into business.
Paavola also founded a charity five years ago unlike any other: Prince George Dress Dreams.
One supporter explained that PG Dress Dreams “gives every girl the chance to feel like Cinderella on her prom day. These girls may come from single-parent families, families that are low-income, families that are facing medical issues, teen moms.” These girls get treated on that prom day to a dress of their choosing, a proper fitting, professional hair and makeup, pro photography, shoes, accessories, and a corsage – all for free thanks to Paavola’s arrangements.
On your big day, or Halloween, or special events like Northern FanCon (her face painting there was its own attraction), she can make anyone look like a million dollars. If you are a girl from difficult financial realities, she’ll do it for free.
Presented by the Prince George Chamber Of Commerce
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