Fox has a new show this year, #MyKitchenRules, and it has Valerie E. Vasquez heating up the kitchen! Valerie (who is married to Andrew Dice Clay) is a makeup artist, hair stylist, and designer turned reality TV star. From being behind the scenes to in front of the camera, Valerie's life sure has changed! I got the chance to catch up with her and learn more about the Valerie off camera.
Check out our Q&A with Valerie E. Vasquez! 
Where are you from?
Born and raised in Los Angeles.
Have you always had a passion for beauty and fashion?
Yes, I’ve always had a passion for beauty and fashion! As a little girl having big feet came in handy because my Mom’s best friend had tiny feet, so her pumps were my "play shoes.” Plus, I was never afraid to break into my Mom’s makeup bag (laughs).
How did you get into makeup and hair?
I always wanted to be a designer, but it wasn't until I was 15, when I was in my friend’s Quinceanera and my parents couldn't afford to get my makeup and hair done, so I did it myself. I got a lot of compliments and everyone said “no way you did that!” So I thought “I'd be happy doing this for a living!” I also knew I had to have something to fall back on in case I didn't become a successful designer, something my dad reminded me about a lot, lol.
Before becoming a successful hairstylist and makeup artist, what other jobs did you have?
My first job was at Forever21 when I was 16. From there I went to Macy's, then Castle Park batting cages, then Nordstrom cosmetics, so pretty much retail until I was 21. Then I started bartending AND started a clothing line with my best friend @RioWarner. I had that plan in my head from about 18 to start bartending, working nights so I could really focus on my dream. I also started cosmetology school 2 months before my 21st birthday. As crazy as it sounds, I still found time to workout at least 4 times a week and have a boyfriend!! I really have no idea how I managed that but I did.
Have you always enjoyed cooking?
I've always enjoyed cooking, I think because I've always enjoyed eating. The first thing I cooked by myself was scrambled eggs, I was 10. But actually, when I was in the Girl Scouts the troop leader’s daughter had an easy bake oven, we were 6 and I was hooked, it’s all I wanted to do.
Who encouraged you to get in the kitchen?
My dad was the one who really showed me the ropes in the kitchen; my mom HATES to cook!
Do you have many secret family recipes?
There are NO secret recipes in my family! I actually can't stand when people recipe hoard! I totally understand a recipe or 2 that was passed down and it's a family jewel, or if you own a restaurant/food brand. But come on, if you bring something delicious to my potluck, or if I come to your house and you just don't want to share, shame on you lol! There are people out there that will seriously ignore you if you ask them for a recipe, I mean it's food, not nuclear codes! My grandma's stuffing is so simple, yet people have always gone crazy for it. I always remember her giving it to someone whenever they had a pen & paper. She told me, "Don't ever not give out your recipes when people love your food. We don't do that!" So in other words no secret recipes here!
Which one is your favorite, if you’re allowed to share?
Pretty much answered above, but grandma's stuffing did come from Chicago. She learned it from her neighbor at 14yrs old. She had to go over and watch her make it and write it down, because there was no actually recipe 😉
How did you decide to join, My Kitchen Rules?
So one day I come home and Dice says "I got ya a gig.” I was so excited because I thought he meant a makeup gig. Then he says "Yeah we're gonna cook on it together!" I was like “Oh, no we're not!!” Well it turned out his team had BEEN working on our deal and I kind of had no choice. I'm very camera shy; I could never be an actress or even a public speaker. But, I did realize what an opportunity the show would be, and Dice assured me I just had to be myself and it would be ok. That’s why I'm laughing through most of the episodes :0
What can viewers expect to see when they tune into My Kitchen Rules?
When you tune in expect to see celebrities and their loved ones extremely out of their comfort zones and yet becoming very competitive as the episodes go on. Throwing a dinner party is a lot of work in itself. Anyone who has thrown a party of any kind is doing it for other's enjoyment. So adding in world renowned chefs at your table and the fact that everyone is judging you when it's over is pretty intense.
Is it intimidating to be on TV?
It is extremely intimidating to be on TV especially when it wasn't really a goal. I mean, I am a reality TV junkie so I have wondered what that would be like, but you never really think it's going to happen to you. It’s very surreal.
Which cast member are you the closest to?
I seriously just adored that entire cast! I have remained in contact with Brandi Glanville, Lance & Diane Bass, and Cat Cora. I’ve also seen Curtis Stone a few times, including most recently when Dice & I were on the “Rachael Ray Show!”
What have you learned about yourself from the show?
I've learned that maybe I'm not as camera shy as I thought I was (as long as I'm just being myself).
What are some of your hobbies?
My favorite hobby has always been cooking. Other than that, I’ve always loved taking pictures & I love to hike, too.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Guilty as charged when it comes to gossip magazines.
What would you say is your biggest accomplishment in life so far?
My biggest accomplishment career wise would have to be “My Kitchen Rules.” My goal was to not be the first one voted off and I reached that goal. You’ll have to watch and see what happens next, but regardless, I'm very proud to be part of it. Biggest life accomplishment would be finding Dice as the love of my life & my best friend.
Is there a quote or saying you live by?
Gosh I feel like I have so many, but I just posted one recently and I feel if more people followed it, it would really make a difference. It's really helped me.
"Happiness is a choice, not a result. Nothing will make you happy until you choose to be happy. No person will make you happy unless you decide to be happy. Your happiness will not come to you. It can only come from you" -Ralph Marston
You can keep up with Valerie E. Vasquez on:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Make sure to catch Valerie on @KitchenRulesFOX every Thursday 9/8c on Fox!
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