Today we’d like to introduce you to Olivia Villa.
Hi Olivia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Born and raised in the Bay Area, California. My love for makeup started at 5 years old playing in my mom’s makeup bag without permission. Her mascara and red lipstick were my favorites. I’d often admire my Mom’s beauty by standing next to her and watching her get ready for her day. I was fascinated with how putting color on her face enhanced her already natural beauty. These memories of dress-up and pretending to wear makeup evolved as I got older when my parents allowed me to have makeup. I would take any opportunity to apply makeup on anyone that was willing to let me. I can remember always loving vibrant colors whether I was wearing them or doing artistic activities during my summer breaks and vacations with my family. I even recall getting friends ready in high school for prom or any special occasion.
I’ve experienced a number of career industries to find myself, none of which was a true passion, they merely provided me with a paycheck. My last attempt and most recent before I started my own business, took me from California in 2006 to San Antonio with an offer of career advancement in the finance industry and more importantly nurture my long-distance relationship with my future husband leaving behind my loved ones. In probably the most stressful period of our lives, my husband and I were both laid off by this company during the economic downturn of 2008. Not only that but we had just found out we were pregnant with our first child and had recently closed on our first home.
Even with this turmoil and uncertainty, we decided that it was best for our new family for me to stay home and raise our new daughter while my husband took over the financial duties to provide for us. In 2011, we were doubly blessed with twins! (Girl & Boy). Again, after the twins arrived, we again decided that it was best for me to stay home and raise the children. Now, this was the beginning of rediscovering myself and during this time, I was fortunate to be trusted by friends and family to get them ready for their events.
This continued trust by my loved ones is what eventually built my confidence and reignited the fire in me to nurture this as my career and passion. This has snowballed into creating Liv Beautified LLC, established in 2016.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I can honestly say it has been a smooth journey for me. When I let go of my fear and doubts, so many doors opened. I’ve been blessed with so many opportunities that I thought would be far beyond my reach.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I can apply a full face application with airbrushing without picking up a makeup brush. Most clients are not familiar with this type of application so I incorporate both Airbrush and Traditional makeup techniques. I specialize in all aspects of the industry from Bridal, Wedding party makeup, Formal, Photographic, Fashion, Film + TV, Funeral, and makeup lessons.
What sets me apart from other artists, I do not reside in a salon or have my own location. In my experience, I have found that most of my clients enjoy being in the comfort of their own homes so I travel on-location to all of my clients. I bring the salon experience to them.
Lastly, I pride myself on listening to my clients intently and doing whatever it takes to bring their desired look to life!
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the culture, history, and community of our city. The traditions, heritage, and diversity here is beautiful.
Contact Info:
- Email: olivia@livbeautified.com
- Website: https://www.livbeautified.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livbeautified
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livbeautified/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/Livbeautified
Image Credits
Jana Cantua, Sweeeta, William Martin Weddings, and Chris Cantoya
