Let's go back to the very beginning. What were you doing before you started your business?
I was always doing everyone’s hair make up since I was a little girl. It wasn’t a game for me. I was very passionate. I studied and got my certificate at the age of 20 as make up artist. I worked at a hair salon and learned hair and makeup. Working at a hair salon was an experience led me to more hair styling and make-up then color cut salon industry.
Was there a specific "lightbulb moment," a personal frustration, or a key experience that pushed you to turn your idea into a real business?
Working at a hair salon was an experience led me to more hair styling and make up then color cut salon industry. I really enjoyed bridals hair styling and make up. At the salon it was limited for me, it was learning experience but it was time to do my own as freelance.
What was the very first step you took?
Started talking to friends and telling them what I do. Mainly focused word of mount and getting clients as new graduates, weddings
Beyond making a profit, what is the core mission of your business? What change do you want to create for your customers or in your industry?
I love making women feel beautiful and creating the best version of themselves. If I help their confidence go up just a little bit, then I have done my job.
What is the one problem you are most passionate about solving for your clients?
Weddings, graduations , these are very special moments, rare times in one’s life and I get to be part of it. Sometimes they get so nervous that they can’t feel the moment, I bring the beauty of it and create a calm environment for them. I get to make a part of that beautiful memory for their life.
You couldn't imagine doing anything else because you love.. "I love making women feel beautiful and confident!"
Every skin tone, every age and every gender
Every journey has hurdles. What was a significant obstacle you faced in building your business, and how did you overcome it?
My industry is very competitive. There are so many artists out there. I needed to create my niche and how I was going to stand out. Outside of makeup I'm told, I make people feel calm and relaxed and I unique style.
I took that into my hair and makeup business by creating that calm environment a bride needs on her special day, as it can be chaotic. I took my unique style and have been creating unique looks for each client. I create their own unique best variation of themselves. Instead of doing one makeup/hair look on everyone.
What has been your single biggest "pinch me" moment or achievement so far?
Hmm I think a pinch me moment could be the time while I was freelancing, I got the opportunity to be the professional hair make up artist for the LA Fashion red carpet photoshoot. I did this multiple times but I remember the feeling first time as I said ‘ hey I’m the professional here it’s kind of a big deal
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What is a misconception people might have about your job or industry that you'd like to clear up?
That it's just a "hobby" or a side gig. This is people's career. I'm not just the "hair girl or makeup up girl”
Today, what does your business do, and who do you do it for?
My business provides custom hair and makeup looks for Bridal or Special events. Every skin tone, every age and every gender. My client is who has a special moment coming up. I’m a mom of 2 under 2 and have limited time. I accept limited clients and give my best to prepare them for those special moments.
What sets you apart from others in your field? What's your unique secret sauce?
Some artists do make up and hair that doesn't represent that person at all. It does look good but it’s just not them and the clients feel that of course. I listen to them, actually hear them and find their best. I feel I hear a lot from my clients that they don't even feel like they are wearing makeup and they feel like themselves. At the same time they feel like they look like the best version of themselves. I think this is my secret sauce.
What do you want people to feel when they interact with your brand?
I want them to feel relief that I got them in that important day
Destination weddings!! And perhaps, teaching other professionals how to become bridal hair make up stylist.
How do you hope your story inspires others?
If you are passionate and talented at something. Take the damn risk! You have one life.
Coffee or Tea? And how do you take it? Tea drinker for sure!
Favorite way to unwind after a long day: literally lay down in my bed snuggle and watch TV
One thing people would be surprised to know about you: I did a fashion design for a runway show. I don’t put this out there much but yes this would be something interesting about me
Connect with Joana on her socials below:
Website: Bylobeauty.com
Instagram: @bylobeauty
Facebook: bylobeauty
