Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Pantoja.
Stephanie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always had a passion for the beauty industry whether it’s fashion, makeup, hair you name it I love it!. So, I made the life decision to switch career paths, from the medical field to beauty. It was tough and drastic change but at the end, it was the best choice I made. I started lashing while beauty school, I had no stable job because of the hours school required, I wanted my main focus to be at school. So, I remember watching videos on IG and Instagram from well-known lash artists around the world and I started by learning the first elements of lashing. Patiences and ISOLATING. I would practice on my sister and friends. I would read articles and tips lash artists would post. Every piece of advice I put in work and yes, it does make a difference. Once I graduated, I had a couple of clients here and there. I started working at a spa as an esthetician and I would do waxing, facials, and on occasion lashes. I then decided to extend my lashing and started building a name for myself. I like to educate my clients on healthy lashes! That’s my main priority. And over my goal is to be as helpful to others in life as the other estheticians/lash artists were for me.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely some bumpy roads on the way. This industry is very challenging you have to make yourself-known, you have to build your own clientele. Also, keeping up with trends and new techniques. It’s not an easy start but it’s doable with consistency. For anyone starting, just have patience and drive for this because you’re going to have to be hungry for it. Also never let anyone bring you down. You got those green monster in this industry and will bash down on you but be the bigger person. Finally, take any advice and tips this will help you grow in the business!!!
Please tell us about Beaute.bystephanie.
As an esthetician, I not only do lashes but also waxing and facials. I want to believe I’m known for my honesty and professional recommendations. I will not perform work that’s not the right fit for the client, I’m proud of where I am being in life for the little time, I have in the industry. (Less than a year.)
Who have you been inspired by?
I definitely look up to strong independent women so anywhere from coco chanel to michelle obama. But I do also look up to bloggers/makeup arists like hrush, jenny69, carli bybel, huda beauty. They’ve taught me makeup which I’m grateful for. Lol, but also they have created their own beauty line and that’s my next goal.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @beaute.bystephanie
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
