As most teenage girls thumb through pictures of celebrities at public appearances and fawn over the surreal glamour of the stars, they might wonder how they can emulate the looks, but junior Abby Marrin does not have to ponder. 

Marrin has been dabbling in the makeup industry for two years and even had the opportunity to use Shay Mitchell of “Pretty Little Liars” as a canvas to display her work last fall.

“I was not exactly familiar with the show, as the experience was not that dramatic, but I took it as a great opportunity and was very grateful,” said Marrin of doing Mitchell’s makeup.

The opportunity came about for her when Cover Girl associate Brandon Jameson offered her the chance to assist him at a Pantene Beautiful Lengths event.  Marrin was connected to Jameson through her father’s job at Procter and Gamble. 

Marrin did Mitchell’s eye makeup under Jameson’s expertise for the event.  She did not say much to Mitchell, but made an effort to explain the motions as she worked her magic.

“ A lot of celebrities want to know how their makeup is done, so they can recreate the looks and improve their skills,” she said.

Marrin enjoys creating high fashion looks on her models as she feels the style is challenging and unique to create.  She hopes to do runway makeup at the beginning of her adult career following obtaining a business degree and attending a makeup artistry school in San Francisco.  She also aspires to open her own cosmetic company.

Currently Marrin is working on compiling her portfolio by experimenting on her more than eager friends. She has also worked as a makeup artist at Northwest Arkansas Fashion Week.

She expands her skills by watching YouTube videos and feels that any girl interested in improving their makeup techniques should do the same.

Her philosophy regarding makeup is concentrated on the mental aspects rather than the physical side.

“I’m attracted to the confidence boost makeup provides for women rather than the way it alters their appearance,” she said.