Vamos!
Our Journey
Life threw me many curveballs, altering my perspective and fortifying my spirit. ORTEGA is a product of my unwavering determination to savor every moment and share my newfound resilience with the world.
I aspire for Latino beauty's thriving success, honoring my culture, family, and people. With blue agave and familial pride, I cultivate a community where all feel cherished and empowered to pursue their dreams.
Humble Beginnings Early home + Blue Agave Field
Etienne was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, amidst humble beginnings near the Blue Agave fields where his hardworking parents instilled values of resilience and diligence.
Viva America
Etienne moved to Southern California at the age of 7. Being the eldest of 4 siblings, he took on the responsibility of caring for his younger siblings. This not only instilled a sense of responsibility but also provided him with opportunities to hone his hairstyling skills on his sister. His talent quickly expanded to his high school peers, with whom he began offering hair and makeup services as a creative outlet to play and experiment. Hard work and success with makeup enabled Etienne to purchase a home for his mother at the young age of 25.
Beauty Calls
Right after high school, Etienne found his passion and enrolled at Paul Mitchell Schools. He immediately dove into working with makeup at MAC. His first celebrity client was Eva Longoria at the age of 21. Etienne quickly became a rising star recognized for his artistry, as well as being known for infusing confidence and positive energy into his clients. These clients later grew to include some of the most iconic women in the world, who have become more than clients, but rather close friends and muses.
Power of Resilience
At the height of his success, Etienne had originally planned on launching his beauty line in 2019, but then life threw him a curveball in the unfortunate form of cancer. This battle unveiled an inner strength and resilience within him that led to a renewed vigor to live life and fully pursue all of his dreams. Etienne lives with the intention to share his artistry, passion, and wisdom in order to help make people feel confident and empowered.
LA FAMILIA
My vision extends beyond personal success. I aspire to elevate Latino beauty, leaving a mark that pays homage to my culture and my family, who are my biggest motivation and inspiration!