PHOTO PROVIDED Markeisha Valentine operates Lash By Keisha Beauty Studio.
When you first step into Lash By Keisha Beauty Studio, it might appear to be just a typical beauty salon. However, owner Markeisha Valentine has a mission that goes beyond simply enhancing her clients’ beauty; she aims to uplift and empower them.
Markeisha’s journey began in high school in 2012 when she felt uncertain about her future after graduation. A conversation with her guidance counselor led her to enroll in a special effects school at Douglas Education Center in Pittsburgh, where she earned a specialized business degree in just 16 months.
“I was passionate about art, especially painting and sculpting,” says Valentine. “I never considered movie makeup until I found a field that combined everything I love.”
Her training included skills in prosthetics, prop creation, and airbrushing. After returning to her hometown of Williamsport, she shifted her focus to beauty makeup, working with clients for weddings, proms, and other significant events.
“Transitioning to beauty makeup was a valuable learning experience,” she shares. “In movie makeup, imperfections can be overlooked, but in beauty, it’s all about enhancing one’s natural features. It took years, but I ultimately mastered the techniques I felt confident using.”
Valentine initially set up her studio in The Pajama Factory for three years. However, she soon learned that to operate legally in Pennsylvania, she needed to obtain a cosmetology or esthetician license.
“I didn’t think I’d have to deal with licensing issues, but when someone reported me, I received a $500 fine,” she recalls. “This led me to ask the state regulators what I needed to do to be compliant.” Thanks to this experience, she enrolled at the Altoona Beauty School, where she earned her esthetician license after five months of intense commuting.
“It was a challenging journey, especially with two kids,” Valentine admits. “Waking up at 4 a.m. to drop them off at daycare before heading to school was tough but rewarding.” She even has plans to pursue a teaching degree, hoping to open her beauty school in Williamsport one day.
Since moving to her current location at 315 Pine Street in 2022, Valentine has focused on lash extensions but offers various services like facials, body waxing, and makeup for special occasions.
“I specialize in makeup for every skin tone and pride myself on my ability to color match effectively,” she states. “Being the first and only Black makeup artist in downtown Williamsport is something I take pride in.”
Valentine hopes her journey can inspire other Black business owners to make their presence known in the community, demonstrating that success is attainable and that they will be welcomed.
“I joined the Chamber committee to explore other businesses and help them connect with resources for success,” she adds. “I’m motivated to uplift others and share ideas.”
Her commitment to community outreach is evident. She aims to organize a “Mr. Aaron’s Day” to raise funds for Aaron’s Water Ice annual backpack giveaway and has plans for a 5k run to benefit local efforts.
Valentine also wants to instill a spirit of giving in her children. “We started a lemonade stand called Little Bros. Lemonade to raise money for local nonprofits,” she explains. They successfully raised $500 for the YWCA through summer pop-ups, teaching her kids about philanthropy and money management.
“When my oldest son chose to support women and children, it almost brought tears to my eyes,” she says, filled with pride. The lemonade stand is set to return this summer, aiming to support Habitat for Humanity.
Whether interacting with clients or engaging in community projects, Valentine’s primary mission is to uplift others. “I guarantee my clients will receive compliments,” she promises, emphasizing the connection between looking good and feeling good. “It’s about making people comfortable in their skin and helping them embrace who they are.”
“Once they leave my chair ready for selfies, I feel like a proud mom,” she adds. “My purpose is to help others feel good about themselves.”
For more information on the services offered at Lash By Keisha Beauty Studio, which operates by appointment only, visit www.lashbykeisha.com or check out their social media profiles.
Conclusion:
Embracing a wellness journey isn’t just about physical health; it’s also about fostering a positive mindset and community spirit. In our quest for fitness, let’s remember the importance of self-care, motivation, and giving back. Whether it’s through beauty, fitness, or community service, every step taken towards feeling good is a step worth celebrating. Engage with your community, support local businesses, and take pride in your journey, much like Markeisha Valentine has done through her vibrant work at Lash By Keisha Beauty Studio.
