My first memory with makeup is imprinted in my mind, as it marks the beginning of a beautifully complex lifelong journey. I was in my Grandma's basement, mischievously opening doors and drawers, when I found a secret stash of beauty products. My younger self was immediately drawn to a L'Oréal Paris lipstick circa the early 00s. I carefully opened the vintage-looking component and was awe-stuck to discover that it was not any old neutral color, but the most captivating shade of red my eyes ever did see. And in that fateful moment, I knew I was changed forever.

My innocent first experience with makeup quickly transformed into a full-blown obsession. From forcing my Mom to make appointments at my "spa" to playing Barbie Makeover on our dial-up family computer every day after school — I couldn't seem to get enough.

But then, the teenage angst kicked in and my insecurities practically consumed me. Once an outlet for creative expression devolved into a way for me to hide my true self and I grew resentful of it entirely.

Desperate to feel comfortable in my own skin, I embarked on a self-love quest beginning in college. Over time, I was able to make peace with my imperfections and completely deconstruct and redefine what beauty meant to me.

Healing and honesty allowed for GLAM BY GIAVONNA to be born in 2017. But commitment to growth and openness to change has given it the space to become what it is today, which is a business centered in honoring our intricate humanity through simple beauty.