Despite being one of the most buzz-worthy actresses of her generation, Maris Racal continues to be a down-to-earth personality in the local entertainment scene. The singer-actress has won over countless fans not just through her charismatic stage presence, but also through her admirably humble personality away from all the cameras.
One person who can attest to Maris' warm-heartedness is her go-to makeup artist Jay Salcedo. Apart from playing a pivotal role in amplifying Maris' radiant presence on screen, Jay is also one of Maris' most trusted friends in the showbiz industry behind the scenes. Learn more about their blossoming friendship in Preview's exclusive interview ahead, wherein Jay shares insights into what it's truly like to be Maris' makeup artist.
Preview Exclusive: Jay Salcedo on Being Maris Racal's Go-to Makeup Artist
Please describe the first time you and Maris met.
"Maris and I met for the first time in 2022 during her launch as Touch Mobile’s newest ambassador, which was held in Dumaguete. Working with her for the first time, I didn’t know what to expect. I remember being a little awkward and super excited at the same time. We barely knew each other, except for some 'positive' word-of-mouth from the industry. Surprisingly, we hit it off just perfectly at a professional level almost immediately. I am truly grateful for the level of trust she has given me, and today, we continue to be a good tandem!"

How did you end up working together? How long have you been working with together since?
"An industry friend was supposed to recommend me to Maris. Coincidentally, before this even happened, Maris had reached out to me through Instagram, as if the stars just aligned so perfectly! I was so kilig, just with her noticing my work, more so wanting to book a session with me–then Dumaguete happened! It has been more than a year since we first started working together and we’ve enjoyed every minute of it!"

How would you describe Maris as a client? What input does she give when it comes to creating her looks?
"First, I absolutely love working with Maris! She knows what she wants and is collaborative when it comes to her looks. Second, and equally as important, she trusts the process! Hence, it has been very easy and enjoyable [to work with her]—a perfect balance of meeting her requirements while getting to inject my creative freedom. We’ve got more ideas in the future—just wait and see!"

How has working with Maris impacted your career as an MUA? How did working with her affect how you view beauty?
"I believe that one thing leads to the other, that when you set something in motion, it can’t help but build momentum. I feel that my last 10+ years of being a MUA have led to this moment with Maris. Working with her not only gave my career a boost but also my self-esteem! As far as beauty goes, it always comes from within, and you see that inner beauty glowing and resonating outside. Have you not seen how beautiful she smiles?"

As one of her go-to MUAs, what can you say about her personal style/aesthetic? How would you describe it? What makes it unique?
"I would describe Maris’ aesthetic to be very chic and classic, with some unexpected twists here and there, like seeing all of these Manhattan girls. She doesn’t follow one particular trend but is able to make her own unique look."

Has your personal relationship developed since you first met? How would you describe Maris as a friend?
"I can say that we’ve grown so much closer now than before. Maybe because we’re about the same age as well that’s why it became easier for us to relate to each other. She’s not just a client anymore, but also a very dear friend to me now. I would describe her as someone who’s very genuine, passionate, supportive—someone who will really push you to be better and I appreciate that about her."

What’s your most unforgettable moment working with Maris?
"While a lot has already happened from the first time we worked together in Dumaguete, my most unforgettable moment is that first time. After that out-of-town event, we got invited to a party, then migrated to our own after-party in our hotel rooms. I think at that moment, we knew we kind of clicked right away. There are some more fun moments, but bottom line, our flight back to Manila was that with a hangover!"

What’s something interesting about Maris that her fans might not know?
"She’s like her own chiropractor. She likes to crack her neck and I’m always amazed at how she does it. One day I might just ask her to crack my bones!"
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