We were lucky to catch up with LaJuana Moreno recently and have shared our conversation below.

LaJuana, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you get your first job in the field that you practice in today?

My first job in the skincare industry was at Massage Envy as a receptionist. I worked the front desk until I took my State Board exam. The staff was extremely helpful and knowledgeable about esthetics. While working the front desk, I used that time to research different skincare ingredients and their uses. That was really helpful for my own skincare line, Melanated-Bliss Botanicals.

The biggest takeaway from Massage Envy was that I really got a chance to learn about the business side of running a spa. That location was franchised by a local owner and she did a fantastic job running the business.

While I was there, I took advantage of all of the learning opportunities for better skincare techniques, treatments, and entrepreneurship.

When I look back on my first job in skincare, I can definitely say that I was pleased with my choice.

LaJuana, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is LaJuana S. Moreno and I am a licensed esthetician in Summerville, SC. In 2018, I created a skincare line called Melanated-Bliss Botanicals. This skincare line was dedicated to Women of Color that suffer from dark spots due to hyperpigmentation. We formulated skincare products such as Turmeric Facial Bars & Clay Masks. Our products our created with natural ingredients that are gentle, yet affective. My products have been proven effective from my many clients all over the country.

After I created the skincare line, I wanted to take it a step further and become a certified skin expert. Starting my journey as an esthetician was one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. While attending Kenneth Shuler, I fell in love with performing facials and different skin treatments. Along the way I was able to connect with some of my amazing peers and professional experts.

Melanated-Bliss Botanicals partnered with Skinscript, a professional skincare line. We sell skinscript and use this brand on our clients. We also provide virtual skincare consultations to help find the perfect at-home skincare regimen.

We’re working on creating a full service facial bar in the Summerville area.

Melanated-Bliss Botanicals will provide facial and body treatments, body waxing, and body contouring in a relaxed, luxurious setting. La Juana is experienced and knowledgeable in skincare and hospitality services. She will go above and beyond to provide the most pristine customer experience possible. Clients will receive luxurious towels, linen, wine or a relaxing beverage of their choosing, as well as swag bags to complete the experience.

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

I actually started the enrollment process for esthetics in 2018. That’s when I was told that my student loans were in default. I had to make payments & go through that whole process until my student loan debt was back in good standing. Along the way, there were other personal trial & tribulations that made me want to give up before I even got started.

In 2019 I finally had everything worked out & was set to start school in July. Covid hit and again, I was at a stand still. Luckily they were able to figure out virtual options and I was set to begin in November. The date was pushed back once again until February 2021.

While I was enrolled, I was determined to make the best of my educational career. Being a full time business owner, mother, and student definitely brought out my determination and resilience. I was also pregnant at the time. The pregnancy really pushed me to work harder and plan for my future.

This whole journey showed me the importance of dedication and perseverance. There were times when I questioned my business because my sales would be nonexistent. I had to learn how to grow within the industry and manage my time effectively. Mistakes were made along the way and rough patches didn’t seem to go away. I used all of those moments as learning lessons. Changing my outlook and being more disciplined allowed me to finish school strong while taking my business to the next level.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Absolutely! The wonderful thing about my career is it’s a bottomless pit of opportunities. For now, I am a creator of result driven skincare products as well as an esthetician. There are so much potential for growth within the Skincare Industry. I plan to expand my knowledge and try many different specialties throughout my career as an esthetician.

Contact Info:

• Website: melanatedbliss.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanatedesti/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelanatedBlissBotanical/

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