Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Cantu.
Vanessa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My permanent makeup journey started back in 2019 when my youngest son was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called Alopecia. This causes his immune system to unexpectedly attack his hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. My son has not regrown eyebrows since he was a few months old and experiences reoccurring patches of hair loss. In his hair loss journey, I discovered how permanent makeup and scalp micropigmentation has benefited so many Alopecia warriors. In combination with my love for all things beauty, I knew this path was for me. I took my training in 2019, and Micro Beauty Bar LLC was officially established in 2020. This career changed my life in such a positive way that in 2021 I decided to share my wealth of knowledge through training courses. Being able to teach others this potentially life-changing skill, and provide mentorship along their journey has become a whole new level of fulfillment. I truly enjoy empowering others through beauty, education, and mentorship! This journey is personal to me, and that passion has fueled me to keep striving to reach my goals.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being a business owner is a roller coaster ride of obstacles, successes, and emotions. I would say one of my biggest struggles was in the beginning of my journey. I was not yet able to commit to my business full time for financial reasons. I was working 40 hours a week at my corporate job. I would get off work and go straight to my studio to take appointments. I worked 7 days a week up to 18 hours a day for 8 months straight. I sacrificed so much time with my children, my spouse, and my family. But I saw the bigger picture. I knew it would pay off and it did. That sacrifice taught me that this journey would not be easy, but it would be worth it. With entrepreneurship, I have learned that obstacles and failures are inevitable in life, but it’s how you learn to overcome those lows that will bring you success in all aspects of life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I offer a variety of permanent makeup services and trainings as well as Teeth Whitening. I offer Ombré Powder Brows, Eyebrow Corrections, Lip Blushing, Lip Blush Neutralization, and my newest service Scalp Micropigmentation. All of these are cosmetic tattooing techniques used to boost confidence or enhance your natural beauty. I also offer training courses for others aspiring to become permanent makeup artist.
I believe I am most known for my training courses. I put my all into my trainings, and I think people recognize that. My ultimate goal with training is to provide the opportunity for others to experience the benefits of owning your own business and the fulfillment of doing what you love.
I specialize in all skin tones and types. In beauty, there has always been a lack of diversity and inclusion. Since the beginning, I have made sure I educated in all skin tones, types, and conditions, so I can provide a quality result to all.
I am most proud of providing services to those who have struggled with their appearance. I believe we are all beautiful, and I am also aware that insecurities and physical appearance, can have an effect on someone’s mental health. I have had clients that have dealt with teasing, bullying, and depression. I have worked on people who lost their hair for reasons such as Alopecia, Cancer treatment, etc. I have had clients with skin conditions, physical differences, and deformities. I am proud to create a safe place for them to come and confide in me and ultimately trust me to help them.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
The best advice I ever got was from a fellow permanent makeup artist. She told me that a business can only grow if people know they exist. When you are just starting this is so important. You have to find ways to put your business in front of people. Also, once you get clients/customers maintain a high level of customer service and satisfaction.
Pricing:
- Ombré Powder Brows/ Corrections $450
- Lip Blushing/ Neutralization $450
- Training Courses $2,000
- Teeth Whitening $80-$100
Contact Info:
- Email: Microbeautybar.dfw@gmail.com
- Website: www.microbeautybar.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/Micro.beauty.bar
Image Credits
Allison Marie
