Meet Madison | Beautician

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

Hi Madison, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in California. I spent my early childhood in West Covina, where I attended elementary school, before moving to Azusa at the start of middle school. Growing up in Azusa presented a number of challenges. The area was heavily impacted by gang violence, and as a young person trying to find my place, I was often surrounded by negative influences.

I struggled with my environment, and those struggles began to reflect in my behavior—I was expelled from multiple schools due to fighting, arrested at a young age, and found myself caught up with the wrong crowds. I was also bullied frequently and turned to substance abuse as a way to cope with the emotional and mental toll I was experiencing.

The turning point came during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the stillness of isolation, I finally had the space to reflect on my life and the direction I was heading. That period became a catalyst for transformation. I started focusing on my mental and physical well-being, distanced myself from toxic environments, and took a leap of faith to start my own business.

While my upbringing was marked by adversity, it also built the resilience, self-awareness, and strength I carry with me today. The environment I came from didn’t define me—it prepared me. It taught me the importance of healing, growth, and using your story to inspire others. I’m proud of the woman I’ve become and the purpose I now walk in each day.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a certified eyelash and nail technician, and I started my beauty business when I was just 16 years old. My passion for the industry was sparked on my 16th birthday when I had my lashes done for the very first time. Unfortunately, the experience didn’t go as I hoped. The application was poor, and the lashes were uncomfortable. A few days later, I booked with my current lash tech, who removed the original set and properly reapplied a new one while educating me on how lash extensions should be safely and professionally applied.

During that appointment, I expressed my gratitude to her and shared my dream of starting a business in the beauty industry, though I had no idea where to begin. She offered me a lash training course, and I didn’t hesitate—I got started right away. Within three months of beginning my training, I took my first client, and from there, my journey truly began.

Now, four years later, my business has grown tremendously. I’ve expanded my services and now offer nail enhancements as well. While I had some prior experience working with acrylics, I’ve continued to develop my skills as a mostly self-taught nail artist. I now offer bundled appointments, allowing clients to book multiple services at once. This not only helps them save time but also provides cost savings through package discounts for combined services.

My mission is simple but powerful: to enhance my clients’ natural beauty and boost their confidence. Every service I provide is rooted in quality, care, and the desire to make each client feel seen, valued, and beautiful.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, one of the first places I’d take them is the Azusa Canyons Crystal Lake. It’s hands-down my favorite spot to unwind, reset, and disconnect from the outside world. There’s something incredibly healing about being surrounded by nature—the sound of the running water, the croaking of frogs at dusk, the wind rustling through the trees, and the sun warming your skin. That feeling is truly unmatched.

What makes the Azusa Canyons even more special is how isolated it is—there’s no cell service, which means it’s the perfect digital detox. It gives you a chance to be present, breathe deeply, and just be. I find so much peace there, and it’s the kind of experience I’d want to share with anyone close to me.

Outside of nature, I’d plan a week filled with balance—some good food, relaxation, and fun. We’d grab brunch at a few cozy local spots, try different cafes, and explore small businesses in the area. But no matter what we did, a trip to the canyon would be the highlight. It’s where I go to reconnect with myself, and I think everyone should experience that kind of peace at least once.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely. I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my Aunt Rene—who I lovingly call Nae Naes—for playing such a pivotal role in my journey. She was the one who first brought me to church and introduced me to God, which became the foundation of my healing and transformation. Her love, faith, and guidance planted seeds in my life that continue to grow today.

I also want to recognize Garry Creel, who served as an incredible mentor during my school years. His unwavering support and encouragement helped keep me grounded and focused, especially during times when I could have easily gone down a different path. He believed in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself.

Both of them have had a lasting impact on my life, and I’m truly grateful for their presence and influence in my story.

Website: https://blesssedwithbeauty.as.me/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madisonoceana?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Soundcloud: https://on.api-core.soundcloud-stage.com/pzLuRNbZDEAi1Bk7j5

Image Credits
All credits to me