We had the good fortune of connecting with Celeste Gonzalez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Celeste, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?

Balancing motherhood with my career requires continual shifts between each facet of my life and it is this understanding that allows me to be flexible and fluid. This recognition gives life to those moments of magic that move me and inspire me, especially when I feel the scales are going to topple. The birth of my career began when I was a mother to two children; however, my family has grown while my business has mirrored that growth as well.
There are periods when my business demands more time and attention from me, and it is the recognition of this “fluid flow” that allows me to embrace these times and fill my “career well” without the nagging mom  guilt that serves neither my business, myself nor my children. I understand that the scales will shift again and I will have what I need to replenish the “mom well”.
Honest and open communication with my children ( age appropriate of course) helps them understand the demands of my career and with that understanding they realize it is only temporary, that I’m always the mom who loves them and although my business is absorbing my time, they are always my priority.
I think it is a misconception to think if you pour your time into your career/ business your family will somehow be neglected. Communication helps the mom/career scales to align, and I’m blessed that my children and, my biggest cheerleader, my husband Gus, understand that. The amazing support I get from them fuels my creative zest for my career and spotlights the boundless potential life holds for all of us.
I would be remiss if I didn’t address the important role that the art of showing grace to myself and others plays in all of this. It is essential and makes each day flow into the next . Grace gives me the courage to innovate , to take risks,  to not shame myself as a business woman or mother. It is the multivitamin that keeps my emotions in check even when I’m feeling challenged and overwhelmed.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

I’m a bilingual licensed cosmetologist whose focus is helping other self-employed, beauty business owners grow as they glow both on and off line. My goal is to help their businesses flourish while curtailing their talents to fit their personal lifestyles.
 I share what has both helped me and hindered me and remind them that their business plan must remain unique to them to make it work for their needs.
Being bilingual has broadened my audience and has allowed me to reach across language barriers. I utilize social media in ways that have helped me connect with other business owners. I am passionate about empowering small businesses.
I did not  let the pandemic slow me down and in response to it I converted a trailer into a mobile salon which is now a mobile lounge used for events.
I would add that embracing your imperfections while challenging yourself to work to improve them is key.
Lastly, always be a student ready to embrace new knowledge and new ideas but never lose sight of how much you already know and the road and lessons you learned to get where you are .

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Sonoma, California is rich with history and beauty . The plaza hosts a farmer’s market that has a plethora of fresh food and crafts and there is always live music .The olive farm is definitely on the list of favorites to visit.
Castillo di Amorosa  is a castle styled winery. It is breathtaking!
The scenery alone in Sonoma county cannot be duplicated anywhere else.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Again, I must mention my husband, Gus Gonzalez, who has truly inspired me to reach for the stars and never surrender my dreams to a set back . I cannot express enough how blessed I am to have a husband and three children who cheer me on with so much love in every chapter of my life !

Website: www.celestethestylist.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestethestylist

Linkedin: Celestethestylist

Facebook: Celestethestylist

Youtube: Celestethestylist

Image Credits
Savina Welch Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.