Meet Silvana Vengoechea | Master Colorist & Salon Owner

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

Hi Silvana, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk taking has been a huge part of my career from day one. My mom, a retired colorist always taught me that being afraid was going to be the only thing holding me back from growing. I see risk as an essential part of growth. Every major milestone in my career, from opening my first salon to stepping on stage as an educator, came from saying yes to opportunities that felt both exciting and uncertain.
Risk forces you to trust yourself, sharpen your skills, and adapt quickly. For me, it hasn’t just been about taking chances, it’s been about betting on my vision and the value I bring. Some risks pay off immediately, others teach you hard lessons, but every single one has shaped the professional and person I am today.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is transforming hair into a reflection of someone’s personality, confidence, and beauty. What sets me apart is my approach, I combine 25 years of color expertise with a deep understanding of how to create looks that are not just beautiful in the salon, but wearable and low-maintenance in everyday life. I see hair as both a science and an art, and I’m equally passionate about educating other stylists to elevate their craft.

One of the things I’m most proud of is building Makeover House into more than just a salon, it’s a space where clients feel at home, and stylists find mentorship, community, and room to grow. I’m also incredibly honored to represent OYA Beauty as an educator, sharing techniques and inspiring other artists on stage.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I started with limited resources and had to build my business from the ground up, often taking risks that others might have avoided. There were times when I faced financial uncertainty, industry competition, and self-doubt. I overcame those challenges by staying adaptable, continually learning, and never letting fear outweigh my vision.

Along the way, I’ve learned that consistency, authenticity, and resilience are just as important as talent. Your skill may open the door, but your character keeps it open.

What I want the world to know is that my brand is built on genuine care for my clients, for my team, and for the craft. Every transformation we do at Makeover House is more than just hair, it’s a confidence boost, a fresh chapter, and a piece of art that walks out into the world.

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?
If my best friend came to visit South Miami for a week, I’d plan a mix of relaxation, great food, culture, and a little glamour, because that’s what Miami does best.

We’d start the trip with brunch at Greenstreet Café in Coconut Grove, nothing beats their pancakes and people-watching. Then we’d stroll through the Grove’s boutiques and the lush beauty of The Kampong botanical garden.

One day would be all about the beach—South Beach in the morning for the iconic Art Deco views, brunch at Smith and Willensky, then watching the sunset from South Pointe Park.

I’d also take them to the Perez Art Museum for some culture, followed by dinner at Zuma for amazing Japanese food right on the water. For nightlife, we’d visit Sugar rooftop bar for cocktails with panoramic city views.

No trip is complete without exploring Little Havana—Calle Ocho’s music, cigars, and Cuban coffee at Versailles are a must.

Midweek, I’d treat them to a self-care day at Makeover House—hair, makeup, maybe nails with some lunch from my new favorite spot in South Miami, Vice City Pizza and drink with live music at Bougainvilleas.

We’d also spend a day in the Keys for something a little slower-paced, snorkeling, fresh seafood, and that unbeatable island vibe.

By the end of the week, we’d have mixed a little of everything that makes Miami special, sun, art, culture, food, and unforgettable energy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and for most I want to recognize my mother for seeing my potential in the beauty business before I did. Not only did she push me to a career that I absolutely love, but was my mentor until the day she retired. My clients who have been loyal consistently and supported me thru everything in my career, from personal challenges to new salon locations. They have pushed me to continue educating myself and having the confidence in my work to start a new path in my career of educating other stylists.

Website: https://www.makeoverhousemiami.com

Instagram: @silvanavengoechea @makeoverhousemiami

Facebook: Makeover House Miami

Yelp: Makeover House