MW: What were some of your first big breaks in the beauty industry?
TQ: It wasn’t until I was graduated college (Albertus Magnus College- BA in Economics) and moved to Florida to work with Merrill Lynch. South Beach was in its full swing – the whole clubs/models/Versace in South Beach scene was fully of allure. I knew it was time for a change and I went to Milan – that is when I discovered my passion for makeup. I was fortunate to be offered a position with Borghese and spent several years honing my skills and knowledge throughout the US, Europe and Asia. My world totally changed when I was recruited for a position with Helena Rubinstein – it wasn’t for me, but the General Manager of Giorgio Armani Parfums, Serge Jureidini, was looking for someone to launch the brand in the US in August 2001. He promised to ‘make me a star’ – I signed on and never looked back. He is now the President of Lancome USA and a dear friend.
MW: Which other makeup artists inspired you at the time?
TQ: Pat McGrath, Kevin Aucoin, and Debi Mazar. Debi used to be makeup artist for Madonna at the time. I ended up working with Debi and Pat so it’s an odd world that keeps going in circles.
MW: What is your philosophy about makeup & beauty?
TQ: For me beauty is all about what makes us shine – I’ve learned from Mr. Armani that “elegance isn’t about being noticed, it’s about being remembered.” I apply this philosophy to my work. I’ve been so fortunate to work with some of the most amazing women in the world – not only in the celebrity arena but also as I continue to learn and grow as I encounter women of all ages and life paths.
MW: What have been some of your most memorable celebrity collaborations so far, and which celebrity you would like to do makeup for in the future?
TQ: I often go blank when the celebrity questions come up – I have vivid memories of my first meetings with Debra Messing, Glenn Close, Farrah Fawcett (an amazing spirit- gorgeous inside and out, and taken from us way too early) Kerry Washington, Andrea Mitchell (who has been an amazing friend – helping me when I was diagnosed with Cancer two years ago). As for the future – the Emmy’s are soon and I’ve sent ‘faces’ out to many of the nominee’s. True Blood is my favorite show, so I’d love to work with Anna Paquin. -Talking Makeup
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