We had the good fortune of connecting with Jiji Loreston and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jiji, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
When I think of the word balance, I can honestly say the only other word I can connect it to in my mind would be “Perfection”. Unfortunately I have not mastered that into my life yet lol, so over time I would say as I am getting older and learning more.. finding the balance between work and life has gotten better. Although it is a rollercoaster and can be draining especially with having 2 daughters who desperately need all my time at all time … somehow with God on my side it works out and I’m thankful for that.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Okay so I am a licensed Esthetician/Makeup Artist/Body Sculptor/God fearing Business woman. I started off as a makeup artist, at first I use to just watch YouTube videos and that was back when makeup was just starting to become what is is today which has been an amazing transition to watch quite honestly. To proceed, I was always into skincare because I just think there’s nothing that compares to a nice, glowing flawless skin and I would literally sit there all day and research stuff that pertains to perfecting your skin. So I was in between jobs and was thinking about enrolling in school for a nursing degree since I figured it’ll be a solid source of income and I was also thinking about my girls because I wanted to provide a stable environment for them.. but I knew deep inside that I was not cut out to be a nurse and that was not what I was passionate about and I am a strong believer on doing what’s best for you so you can truly be happy. Right before Covid happened I decided to enroll into a beauty school to obtain my Esthetician license. That was probably the most stressful time of my life because like I mentioned I was in between jobs, of course bills were pilling up and I still had to make sure that I attended work and go to school for my hours and deal with the girls in between as far as school drop offs, hair appointments, quality time etc.. I am also thankful for my family and they know who they are because without them I don’t know what I would of done. But to continue , right in the middle of my school program covid happened, and I think we can all imagine how that went down. I hated the online transition but I still made sure I intended and as soon as they announced we can return to campus with cautionary measures I was so excited to get it done and I did pass my test and got my license ! I started getting to work right away as far as rebranding , finding a location and advertising as I was starting to realize that this would become my only source of income and I had to get it right. I think the support I received when I first put it out there was more than I imagine it would be and that pushed me to continue to be better and I am so grateful and will forever be grateful for that. I plan on continuing to improve my business even though it does get emotionally frustrating and mentally draining .. wheewwww.. God knows lol.. My goal is to be in a field where I can make women feel and look their best at all times and also built a legacy that my girls will be proud of.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Listen !! I am an Aries and if you’re a fire sign you definitely have to know how to have a good time lol .. Were definitely spending the week in Miami.. Booking the East because the location and picture scenery is bomb ! and what’s a girls trip without some bomb photos. Were going to brunch, Tap42 or limonada are some good brunch places. Get on the water (find deals on boats and jetskis). Dinner is definitely at Prime and of course after museums and mall visits.. We have to do a nightclub and Miami definitely has options so it’s lit regardless !
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?
My daughter Skye & Kyra,
I mean everything that I am today is because of them. I had my first child Skye early at 19 years old, I did not know anything at all about being a mother but she literally was the best child anyone can ask for and I was able to learn and I am still learning because my second child; Kyra .. that one is a firecracker lol and has helped me a lot and I am loving every second of it and I thank God for even trusting me and honor me to being their mom and I do not want to let them down at all and I will not because were raising queens over here ! lol
Website: www.22artistry.com
Instagram: 22artistry_