Today we’d like to introduce you to Gillian ThorbourneJessany.
Hi Gillian, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Gillian—but most know me as GiGi. I’m a dual-licensed aesthetician, laser hair removal technician, and founder of GlowXGiGi Skin & Beauty Studio here in Dallas, TX. I was born and raised in Panama City, Panama. After my 12th birthday I moved to Germany with my family. in 2005 we moved to the USA and have called Texas home for the past 20 years.
GlowXGiGi was founded in Austin, Texas in 2018. My Passion for make up artistry lead me deepen and expand my expertise beyond the make up brushes. Before I ever held a lash tweezer or mixed a custom peel, I always knew I was passionate about people. I loved learning about history and the arts. These studies shaped how I understand people—their expressions, their healing, and their connection to beauty.
I earned my Baccalaureate of Science degree in psychology from Texas A&M Central Texas in 2016. Shortly after, I spent several meaningful years in social services working with unhoused veterans. Still, I knew I was being called to work more intimately with self-image, confidence, and care.That journey led me to Aveda Arts in Austin, where I trained in esthiology. I later expanded my skills at Texas Laser and Aesthetics. I completed advanced training in lash enhancements, dermaplaning, microblading, and laser hair removal.
Since then, I’ve had the honor of working in both holistic and clinical environments. My journey began with calming rituals at Milk + Honey Spa. It continued with the advanced treatments offered at Saxon MD Facial Plastic Surgery. There, I gained hands-on experience in medical-grade facials, microneedling, RF (Radio Frequency) microneedling like Morpheus8 and IPL (Intense Pulse Light). microneedling It deepened my understanding of leadership, detail, and service.
As a bilingual provider, I’m passionate about creating a space where every client feels seen, heard, and deeply cared for. My philosophy is simple; when your skin is healthy and your beauty rituals are aligned with who you are-confidence flows naturally.
GlowXGiGi is more than an aesthetic studio—it’s a space where intention meets artistry, and where every service is tailored to you.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. Although I have been in the industry for the past 7 years, I have only been a solo practitioner for 2. I moved to Dallas under the Saxon Md practice only to be let go one month after relocating. In Austin, I had a small client base that I left behind. Coming to Dallas I had to start completely from the ground up. Without any connections or guidance.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I love that aesthetics can combine the perfect balance between science and art. We have the science of ingredient formulation to the art of application. I myself have been very artistic since I was a child. I loved poetry, drawing and I even had aspirations for playing the violin. I consider myself an artist, especially since my background started in make up artistry. I’ve learned the art of Lash extensions, permanent make up and more technically invasive treatments like lasers, radio frequency devices and skin resurfacing whether chemically or mechanically. I’m a multifaceted aesthetician with a diverse background knowledge and while my specialties are lashes, brows and facials. I pride myself on continuing my education so I can be the a great asset and resource for the people I serve. In addition to my dual licensing, I now hold 3 permanent make up certifications, 2 from US and one internationally.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My parents. Being the first in my family to attend college for higher education. My parents always gave me their full support. They never limited my abilities and encouraged me to pursue my passions. When I was in college, I actually started a Mary Kay business and I was mentored by Darlene. She taught me about entrepreneurship, self confidence and believing in yourself. My Aesthetic instructor Angie, also inspired me. She encouraged us to be the best versions of our selves and introduced us to self care. She taught us that you can’t pour from an empty cup and as service providers, we have a responsibility to take care of ourself first.
Pricing:
- Eyelash Extensions $220
- Eyelash Lifts $115
- Custom Brow Lamination $130
- Brow Design $55 (waxing/tinting)
- Permanent Make Up starting at $450
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.glowxgigi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glowxgigi?igsh=MW5uYW1uZnNvZHJnNA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glowxgigi?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios
Image Credits
Photographer UrLocalKae Kailee Betters
https://www.instagram.com/glowxgigi?igsh=MW5uYW1uZnNvZHJnNA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
