Gloria Noto does it all: She’s been a lead makeup artist for over a decade, she’s the Editor-In-Chief of The Work Magazine and she just launched a multi-use natural cosmetics line, NOTOBotanics. So we can definitely say Gloria is a Girlboss with some serious gusto.
She’s worked with publications like Dazed & Confused, Elle, Vogue, andWonderland, and has long-lasting clients and (more importantly) friendships with power women like Shailene Woodley and Lykke Li. “I can’t think of anything better than being able to create magic with your friends, while making a living doing it,” says Gloria in the most genuine way.
We sat down with the multifaceted pro herself to get to the bottom of how she kills it every single day.
You’re a makeup artist, visual artist, editor, and entrepreneur. How’d you become so multidimensional?
I think being present in whatever project you are working on is really important. For example, if I’m working on makeup, I’m in makeup artist mode. If I’m painting, I’m in painter mode, and so it goes. Also, being very curious in other interests, staying curious, and opening up to new things that help you develop your library of knowledge and content is essential.
As far as productivity, are there any tools you use to keep organized and motivated?
I use Trello and Evernote with my team because it’s a great way to keep organized and on track of project management. When it comes to starting your own business, Seth Godin is a great author, and I also love The Tim Ferriss Show podcast.
You just launched NOTO botanics. Can you tell us about the line, the challenges you faced, and the rewards?
I created NOTO Botanics to achieve something greater than myself. It’s a multi-use natural cosmetics line with the belief that self-expression though beauty and self care can be achieved, while still being mindful to the environment.
One of the biggest challenges has been managing all of my ideas and organizing my time correctly, because I have so many things in the works that I want to tell people about now, but I have to be patient! The most rewarding thing has been giving back through developing products that aren’t harmful to yourself or the environment—all while being playful and creating beautiful content with creative friends.
Any freelance hacks we should know about?
It’s always a great idea to find the people you want to work with. Just make yourself a dream collaboration list and then directly reach out to them. It can’t hurt and everyone loves hearing you like their work!
What are your good and bad work habits?
My good work habits are my hard work ethic and true passion—I genuinely believe in everything project I do. My bad habits are that I have so many ideas popping off all of the time and it can be difficult to keep up with them. I have to remember to not get off track before finishing up my last idea.
What’s the best thing about being a Girlboss?
Being able to live out my own dreams and aspirations. I love being able to share what I believe in and what excites me. Also, I love being able to choose how I spend my time and my days. Even though each day is action packed and a lot of work, it’s still the work I want to do and I feel so grateful for that choice.
Interview By Zarna Surti
