New Bedford Makeup Artist Lands Aubrey O’Day Gig

There’s a makeup artist in New Bedford whose career is taking off, and his latest opportunity has him working with a familiar face from the early 2000s music scene.

Not long ago, I introduced you to Renato Rego, the talented artist behind Renato MUA, who turned his passion for makeup into a growing business at New Bedford’s Kilburn Mill. Since then, he's been making some serious moves, and his latest connection might be his biggest yet.

Rego recently shared some exciting news with me: On November 2, he'll be doing makeup for Aubrey O'Day, best known as a member of the popular girl group Danity Kane, formed on MTV's Making the Band.

From New Bedford to Celebrity Glam

The opportunity came through Rego's friend and industry connection, influencer Peter Panos, who has ties to personalities from The Real Housewives and other big names within the entertainment industry. When Aubrey O’Day announced her upcoming Boston appearance, Panos helped connect her team with local beauty professionals, opening the door for Rego and Fall River Hairstylist Michael of Bridal Waves to be part of the experience.

New Bedford Makeup Artist Renato Rego Lands Celebrity Gig With Danity Kane’s Aubrey O’Day — Courtesy Renato Rego

"I was pretty shook," Rego admitted. "My first celebrity client was Renee (Graziano), and now it's going to be Aubrey. Like, what's next?"

Michael will be creating O’Day’s hairstyle while Rego handles her makeup, with both local artists collaborating to bring the complete look together.

A Growing List of Celebrity Connections

The opportunity follows Rego's recent work with Renee Graziano of VH1's Mob Wives. He previously did her makeup for a local appearance and said the two are planning another collaboration at Kilburn Mill.

For Rego, these connections are more than celebrity encounters. They're proof that years of dedication, networking and believing in himself are beginning to pay off.

An Award-Winning Makeup Artist

As if landing a celebrity gig wasn't exciting enough, Rego also recently took home a Best Makeup Artist award at the Boston Fashion Awards. He admitted he didn't even realize he'd been nominated until an event coordinator contacted him. After sharing the voting link with his supporters, he walked away a winner.

Between his award, celebrity clientele and plans to launch a podcast with Bridal Waves in 2027, Rego's future is looking brighter than ever.

"I just feel like it's a start to something to come that I just can't see yet," he said. "But I know it's going to be beautiful."

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