We recently connected with Erica Bravo and have shared our conversation below.

Erica , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

From a young age, I knew I wanted two things: to be my own boss and to help people feel beautiful. I never imagined that journey would lead me to not just one, but two creative and deeply rewarding businesses—photography and permanent makeup.

My path really began after the birth of my daughter, who is now three years old. Like many new mothers, I found myself craving something that was just for me—something that made me feel accomplished outside of motherhood. I had always been drawn to photography, with an eye for capturing emotion, detail, and beauty. So, I saved up, purchased my first professional camera, and dove headfirst into learning the craft.

That decision became the foundation of my first business. Photography allowed me to preserve moments—not just for my own family, but for others as well. Whether it’s an engagement session, a growing family, or a solo portrait, I’m honored to provide images that people will cherish for a lifetime. There’s something magical about freezing time in a beautiful, meaningful way.

As my photography business grew, so did my desire to expand the ways I could help people feel their best. That led me to permanent makeup. I recently became certified as a PMU artist specializing in eyebrows, and launched my second business. For me, it’s all about empowerment—helping someone wake up, look in the mirror, and feel confident before their day even begins.

Starting both businesses took more than just passion. It took planning, research, training, and resilience. I had to learn the technical skills, understand the market, invest in equipment, and most importantly, believe in myself. Each step, from my first camera purchase to my PMU certification, was driven by a desire to create something meaningful and lasting.

Today, I get to do what I love—capture beauty, create confidence, and run businesses that reflect who I am. And that, to me, is the ultimate success.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Erica Bravo, and I’m a multi-passionate creative entrepreneur based in Arizona. By day, I work as an administrative specialist—a role that’s taught me discipline, independence, and how to manage multiple responsibilities with intention. Outside of that, I’ve built two businesses that allow me to pursue my passions and help others feel confident and beautiful: Erica Bravo Photography and Bravo Ink & Aesthetics.

Photography was my first love. Through Erica Bravo Photography, I specialize in natural-light, outdoor portrait sessions—capturing families, individuals, and special moments that deserve to be preserved. I find joy in connecting with clients, helping them feel comfortable in front of the camera, and delivering images that reflect their unique beauty and story. There’s something truly magical about freezing time and giving someone a memory they’ll cherish forever.

My second business, Bravo Ink & Aesthetics, was born from a similar passion—helping people look and feel their best. I’m a certified permanent makeup artist specializing in eyebrow enhancements. I love that with just one service, I can give someone the confidence to feel effortlessly polished every single day. It’s more than beauty—it’s about empowerment.

What sets me apart is my dedication. I’m reliable, honest, and always open to creative ideas. I genuinely love what I do, and that energy shows in every interaction, whether I’m behind the camera or holding a PMU tool. I take the time to understand each client’s vision and go the extra mile to ensure they leave feeling their best.

I’m most proud of the balance I’ve created—managing a full-time job, being a mom, and building two businesses from the ground up. It’s taken hard work, long nights, and constant learning, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

To anyone considering working with me, I want you to know: I will show up for you. Whether it’s through timeless photography or flawless brows, my mission is to help you feel confident, celebrated, and beautifully you.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Resilience, for me, wasn’t something I learned—it was something I lived. I grew up in a challenging environment, sharing a small double-wide trailer—just two bedrooms and two bathrooms—with eight people. Despite always being surrounded by others, I often felt incredibly alone. My childhood was far from easy, but it taught me strength, independence, and the ability to push forward, no matter the circumstances.

After high school, I made a bold move to Phoenix in search of something more. Eventually, I returned to my hometown of Payson, Arizona, to pursue a relationship with the man who would become my husband. Together, we’ve built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and mutual support. We’ve both experienced hardship and come from difficult beginnings, but rather than letting those experiences define us, we used them as fuel to grow, to strive, and to dream bigger.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of my husband. Through every obstacle—whether in life or business—he’s been by my side. During moments of self-doubt, when I felt like giving up, he reminded me of my strength and potential. His encouragement has been one of the most powerful forces behind my resilience and success.

Looking back, the struggles I faced helped shape the woman and entrepreneur I am today. They’ve made me more compassionate, more driven, and more determined to build a life that reflects not just where I came from—but where I’m going.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the most important lessons I’ve had to unlearn is that building a business isn’t about how many followers you have, how much money you make each month, or where you live. In the beginning, it was easy to fall into that mindset—to compare myself to others on social media and question if I was doing enough or if I was successful “enough.” But over time, I learned that real growth doesn’t come from metrics—it comes from mistakes, persistence, and purpose.

There were moments where I felt defeated, thinking I wasn’t measuring up. But the truth is, I’ve built something meaningful from the ground up. Every small milestone matters. What’s truly valuable are the genuine connections I’ve made with clients, the lessons I’ve learned along the way, and the pride I feel when I see my vision slowly taking shape.

I’m 25 years old, and I’ve been working since I was 14. At one point, I was juggling school and two jobs—often burning out because I thought I had to do it all, all the time. Back then, I believed success meant being constantly busy and proving something to the world. Now, I know it’s okay to take things one step at a time. It’s okay to slow down, learn as you go, and define success on your own terms.

What matters most isn’t comparison—it’s commitment. It’s about staying true to your passion, continuing to show up, and recognizing that every challenge is shaping you into the entrepreneur—and the person—you’re meant to become.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ericabravophotography.mypixieset.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaRlTOujzLUMYg3wp6Sc7h4nkAxTmxxUFi4Rud1bGFzfICBJgKS1xmIGe0_aem_WCR233vuTSq-8qS4ljA_Wg
• Instagram: @ericabravophotography @bravoinkandaesthetics
• Facebook: Erica Bravo Photography

Image Credits

@ericabravophotography