We recently connected with MARY KOONTZ and have shared our conversation below.

MARY, appreciate you joining us today. If you’re open to it, can you talk to us about the best (or worst) investment you’ve made. What’s the backstory and the relevant context behind why you made the investment

“A Divine Investment: The Story of Monarch Beauty School”

Buying Monarch Beauty School has been, without a doubt, the best investment I have ever made—but not in the way most people would assume. Yes, it’s a business, and yes, it comes with challenges and responsibilities. But what makes this journey so powerful and worthwhile is watching lives change before my very eyes. It’s not just a school. It’s a place where people rediscover their worth, uncover their purpose, and begin to believe in themselves again.

When I first took over Monarch, I prayed that it would be more than just a building where people learned to do hair, nails, or skincare. I wanted it to be a place of transformation—a space where people felt seen, supported, and inspired. And God has shown up every step of the way.

Every student who walks through our doors brings a story—some carrying broken dreams, others looking for a second chance, many just trying to prove to themselves and the world that they can do something great. And day by day, I get to witness something truly incredible: confidence being built, faith being restored, and futures being rewritten.

One of the most beautiful parts of this journey has been seeing God move in ways I never imagined. It’s in the quiet tears during a breakthrough moment, the laughter echoing through our classrooms, and the prayers whispered in the break room before a big exam. It’s in the support our students give each other—the way they lift one another up, cheer each other on, and celebrate every small victory.

What makes Monarch so special isn’t just the skills being taught—it’s the love, grace, and purpose being poured into every student. And that’s not something you can put a price tag on.

So when people ask me if buying Monarch was a good investment, I tell them this: It was the best investment I’ve ever made—because I’m not just building a business, I’m helping build people. I get to be a small part of God’s work in their lives, and there’s no greater return than that.

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

About Me & Monarch Beauty School

Hello! My name is Mary Koontz, and I am the proud owner of Monarch Beauty School in Valencia Ca.—a place where transformation happens, both inside and out. My journey into the beauty and education industry wasn’t just a career move; it was a calling. I’ve always had a heart for helping people discover their worth, and I believe that true beauty begins the moment someone starts believing in themselves.

When the opportunity to purchase Monarch Beauty School came into my life, it felt less like a business transaction and more like divine alignment. I saw a chance to create more than just a school—I saw the potential to build a safe, empowering space where people could learn a trade, heal from their past, grow in confidence, and walk boldly into their God-given purpose.

At Monarch, we offer comprehensive training in cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology. But what truly sets us apart is the heart behind what we do. We don’t just teach our students how to style hair or do a facial—we teach them how to walk with integrity, pursue excellence, and believe in their ability to succeed. We infuse faith, encouragement, and real-life mentorship into our programs, making sure our students feel supported emotionally and spiritually, not just academically.

One of the biggest problems we help solve is self-doubt. Many of our students come to us looking for a second chance—whether they’re starting over after a setback, leaving a toxic situation, or simply trying to prove to themselves that they can finish something. Watching our students grow, graduate, and step into careers that give them stability and pride is the most rewarding part of what I do.

What makes Monarch different is that we are mission-driven. We lead with love, walk in purpose, and pray over every classroom. We believe in community over competition, and we pour into our students the same way we’d pour into our own family.

I’m most proud of the fact that this school is changing lives—not just cosmetically, but completely. I’ve seen students walk in shy, broken, unsure… and walk out confident, equipped, and ready to serve others with their gifts. That is the power of a beauty school rooted in faith and purpose.

If you’re looking for a place to begin again, grow, and become the person you were always meant to be, Monarch Beauty School is here for you. We’re not just teaching beauty—we’re building legacies.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Managing a team and keeping morale high starts with leading from the heart. For me, it’s about creating a culture where every team member feels valued, heard, and part of something meaningful. At Monarch Beauty School, we’re not just showing up to work—we’re showing up to change lives. That shared mission brings people together.

I’ve found that the best way to build morale is through appreciation, clear communication, and genuine care. I make it a point to recognize my team’s efforts, celebrate their wins, and be available when challenges arise. I also believe in giving my team the space to grow, make decisions, and feel trusted in their roles.

And because faith is the foundation of our school, I pray over my staff and students regularly. Inviting God into our workplace brings peace, unity, and direction. When your team knows they’re seen—not just as workers, but as individuals with purpose—it creates an environment where morale doesn’t just survive, it thrives.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building our social media audience has been a journey of authenticity, consistency, and heart. When I first started sharing about Monarch Beauty School online, I didn’t focus on polished perfection—I focused on people. I shared real stories of our students, behind-the-scenes moments, and the emotional victories that happen in our classrooms every day. I wanted people to feel the heart of our mission, not just see pretty pictures.

Over time, the more I shared the truth of what was happening here—the transformations, the testimonies, the prayer moments, the growth—the more our audience began to grow organically. People connected with the vision and the purpose behind our school. I also made it a point to engage with comments, messages, and share content that inspired or uplifted, not just promoted.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.monarchbeautyacademy.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monarchbeautyacademy/#

Image Credits

Cade Costic from Co Creative Agency