We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mia a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Mia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Have you ever had an amazing boss, mentor or leader leading you? Can you us a story or anecdote that helps illustrate why this person was such a great leader and the impact they had on you or their team?

One of my favorite people to ever work for, was a brilliant, beautiful woman by the name of Sonia.
She was an incredible mentor, who gave me the opportunity to learn a new skill and also put me in a position to teach makeup and skin care, on a corporate level. Which in turn prepared me for all of my future roles in business.

Her genuine kindness and compassion, inspired me to become a better leader, teacher and businesswoman.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I first got into the beauty industry 23 years ago, after high school.
Before that, I remember doing makeup in the bathrooms at school for $5-$10 to help save money for a makeup kit.
I knew that I liked making people look and feel beautiful at a young age.

I had 1 eye shadow palette, which came in a Macy’s holiday makeup kit, that my grandma Mary bought me.
5 brushes. And a Kevyn Aucoin book, that my best friend got me.
And with these tools I made magic happen.

I got a job at a hair salon after high school as an assistant manager. I then met my mentor and first boss lady inspiration, by the name of Ralphanne. She took me under her wing and taught me a lot about makeup, pageants and photography. She gave me my first job in Newyork city at age 18, as a freelance artist.

I became a licensed esthetician in 2015 when I moved to Arizona, I then began my journey to falling in love with skin care and teaching.
After reaching expert status at the Dermalogica institute I decided to continue my learning and study clinical herbalism a few years later.
With the knowledge and background in beauty and business, I created my own makeup and skincare business and decided to go into corporate retail beauty part time.

Fast forward to today, I utilize all of my skill sets and education to run my small businesses.
I offer a true luxury, beauty and wellness experience with my services. Focusing on customized treatments, education and looks for all types of clientele.

Creating a true and genuine healing experience is my ultimate goal.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Make sure to always be willing to learn.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

In 2020 when everything shut down, from the covid pandemic, I lost my job of 4 years with Tarte cosmetics. All of my clients canceled their appointments and weddings for the year and my life turned upside down.
I had just found out about my mother’s cancer diagnosis and was completely devastated.
After she passed away and the loss of both my grandmothers and grand father, I tried going back to work.
I accepted a job for a skincare brand called Sunday Riley, for sales, education and events.
But my grief got the best of me.
I ended up having to pivot and create another way to make additional income.

I began formulating blends of essential oils and wire wrapping crystals and glasses and making unique jewelry. I ended up creating a really cool brand of accessories. Utilizing the skills passed down to me from my ancestors, I just kept swimming.

A lot happened in a short period of time but each event made me appreciate and value everything around me.

Today I am back doing what I love most. Pouring into people whether it’s with the gift of beauty, education and skincare or healing energy through high frequency accessories.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mimivonlace.com
• Instagram: mimivonlacebeauty
• Facebook: Namastaygangsta

Image Credits

Briana Rambo