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HND Makeup Artistry graduate, Cara Tonfoni has scooped third place in the regional category for Make-up Artist of the Year for Scotland at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2023. The 21-year-old self-employed make-up artist from Renfrew who studied at our Clydebank campus and graduated just last year has been running her business for just 5 months but has already seen great success in the industry in such a short time.

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Cara who owns CaraMaria Makeup and works from Glossup salon in Renfrew, specialises in bridal and occasion makeup and she even does face painting for children’s parties!

Speaking of what first inspired her to pursue a career in make up artistry Cara said,

“I always wanted to do what the make-up artists done. I watched beauty influencers and started practicing on myself and my friends and family.I have such a passion for all types of make-up, and I can’t wait to see where my business takes me in the years to come.”

On her success at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards earlier this month, Cara said when she came third in Scotland for Make-up Artist of the Year, she was “so shocked.” She said: “I couldn’t get my words out, I was just speechless!”

Having gained experience on the BBC training scheme of the set of River City as well as working on short films and theatre, Cara is keen to continue her work in productions but also said she is also “grateful” to all of her clients and models who have always supported her in her career so far.

Speaking of her time at College Cara said,

“My time at college was absolutely amazing. I learned so much and was always so determined to give my all into each assessment that was given to me. Most days of the week I would come home and practice after college and get better and better. The lecturers are outstanding they pushed me to get best result and any little detail they would make sure you get it perfect.”

 She said that she absolutely loved meeting new friends too that are now “friends for life”. During her time at College Cara competed in regional and national competitions where she travelled to Edinburgh and Blackpool, “This was one of my favourite parts of college I loved the competitions and seeing everyone’s work from all over the UK. The standard of work was insanely high I loved it. The competitions are what inspired me so much to believe in myself and practice really does make perfect.”

After winning multiple awards at nationals I was absolutely over the moon and now that I have won 3rd place in the full of Scotland for Make-up Artist of the Year I am so overwhelmed and grateful especially to all my lecturers I couldn’t of got here without you.”

Curriculum Quality Leader, Morven Aikman said,

“We are so proud of Cara and all she has achieved in her career so far. She is an excellent example of our talented graduates putting their skills into practice in this fast paced, exciting industry and we can’t wait to see where her career takes her. Well done Cara!”

Follow Cara on Instagram: @caramaria_makeup and check out our Makeup Artistry courses to follow in her footsteps!