MWS Employee Spotlight: Celeste Vanya

MWS Employee Spotlight: Celeste Vanya

Celeste Vanya

Versatile and detail-driven, freelance makeup artist Celeste Vanya  brings a strong foundation in clean beauty and fashion makeup for print to every project she takes on. A graduate of Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry, she blends technical expertise with a sharp artistic eye, making her a reliable and collaborative presence both on set and in-store at MWS. You might also recognize her as the host of our popular Instagram series, Friday Night Live, alongside Gabriella Pizzo. We sat down with Celeste to talk about her journey, her passion, and what led to her being named our Employee Spotlight of the week!

What specifically does your job entail?

My job entails so many things! The basics are: cashing people out at the register, stocking shelves, all while answering the phone and checking our email for orders. The extra’s (which are the fun parts), are introducing people to new products, helping artists find solutions to challenging makeup looks, and educating new artists on product knowledge. I’m also the Social Media Coordinator for MWS, so I’m constantly trying to keep all the moving parts of all of our different platforms looking and sounding cohesive.  I love creating content for Instagram and TikTok with my partner in crime, Ella (Gabriella Pizzo).  I like to sprinkle all of that with the occasional silly joke.  You gotta laugh after all!

How did you get your start in the industry?

Celeste sampling makeup

At 40 years old, I decided pretty late in life that I wanted to be a makeup artist. Previously, I had worked in Hospitality for almost 30 years. I was the Front of House Operations Manager for South East Florida when I left the company I was working for.  I enrolled in Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry in Ft. Lauderdale and the rest is history.    

How do you keep yourself organized?

I wish I had a better answer for this, honestly, I still feel like the most disorganized person. I’ve tried just about everything. Right now, I rely on a Post-it note app on my work computer at MWS, which has been surprisingly helpful. I also keep tabs open as reminders for tasks… and, thankfully, Ella helps keep me on track.

What’s the most difficult scenario you’ve faced in your field?

How heavy my kit is. Truly. It’s a constant battle.

What is your favorite part about your job

Celeste playfully modeling a beard

I love helping people find solutions to their problems. We work with incredibly experienced artists, and collaborating with them – especially when we’re figuring out how to do something new or previously untested, is really satisfying.

What skills are the most useful to cultivate for success?

Patience, active listening, kindness, and a sense of humor. Patience is a given as you’re tested daily, and how you respond is what people remember. Truly listening is harder than it sounds; most of us are already forming a response before someone finishes speaking. Kindness matters not just in actions, but in how we speak to others. I always try to communicate the way I’d want to be spoken to. Also, a sense of humor is essential. Not taking yourself too seriously and being able to laugh can bring a sense of calm to any environment. The world is serious enough – so laugh when you can.

What is your favorite product?

Neen Pretty Extra Mascara – Black

This is a tough question. I love so many things, but I am definitely a mascara connoisseur. I keep coming back to Pretty Extra Mascara from Neen. Whatever is in that formula, it lengthens and curls beautifully. I don’t even need a lash curler!

What is one thing you never leave home without?

My headphones. I love music, and commuting without it is torture.

Tell us about a harrowing moment—and one that brought you the most joy.

MWS / MAQPRO 10 Color Makeup Palette

One of the most meaningful moments was when we received our first shipment of the MWS & MaqPro Collab Foundation Palettes. We worked so hard on those, and it was my first time being involved in something like that. Seeing them in person made me a little misty-eyed. They’ve been so well received by the pro community, which means a lot. On the flip side, the most harrowing moment was when my coworker Kim fell off a ladder. That was genuinely scary.

Tell me about your history with Manhattan Wardrobe Supply.

Celeste receiving a new shipment

I’ve been at MWS for just over four years, and it’s probably my favorite place I’ve ever worked. During that time, I’ve had the chance to collaborate with amazing artists, watch new talent find their footing, and continue developing my own skills. I’m really proud to be a small part of the history of such an iconic place.