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

Alondra, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

My mission as a salon owner is to establish a great working environment where our clients can walk in and feel right at home. The Monarch team is like a family. Our mission as a team is to create the best color/ look for our clients, and enlighten them with their inner confidence. Monarch means transformation, hope, beauty, and elegance. Here at Monarch we provide just that for each of our clients.

Alondra, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a makeup artist and my specialty is bridal makeup.  As a young teenager, my passion for hair and makeup always was something I was interested in. As a highschool student in Leander High School, I took their cosmetology course and  followed my passion as a makeup artist right out of high school. At the same time I established a career as a paralegal specializing in Criminal and Immigration Law for 13 years. But, two years ago I decided to take a huge step and let go of my career as a paralegal and focus on what I truly love and makes me very happy, which is makeup. I have been so lucky to meet great people in this industry and work with amazing talented artists along the way that have helped my transition to be a little at ease.  Can’t say enough about my family, without them this dream wouldn’t come true.  Now WELCOME! to my own salon; Monarch; Hair, Face and Body, where you can either come get your hair done, styled, get a facial, massage… you name it, we have everything you need!

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Starting a business during the pandemic came with its own challenges. Our hairstylist lost so many clients due to covid.  My main priority as a new salon owner was to start helping my hairstylist rebuild their clientele by promoting Monarch on every social media platform available and we are doing just that. With the amazing help of social media and client word of mouth our salon is getting its wings back!!  We can’t forget our amazing clients that leave us their reviews. Thank you!

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Being a makeup artist opened a door into fashion where I have been honored to work with amazing photographers, models and designers here in the Austin area. I love giving back to the community, and by doing so, the Monarch team volunteers in local fundraising events, competitions, photo shoots and runway shows. This year, we are excited to be participating in the “Trash Makeup Challenge for Texas Campaign for the Environment” where our team will be making a garment made from recycled or repurposed items or materials.  In the past, I have participated in the “Battle of the Salons”, as well as numerous magazine publications.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.monarchhairfacebody.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monarchhairfacebody/?next=%2F
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monarchhairfacebody
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/monarch-austin-2