Today we’d like to introduce you to Elisa Etienne.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Elisa Etienne, but everyone calls me Lisa. I’m the owner of Ezili Beauty Bar, a licensed Esthetician, and a Tattoo Artist. I’m Haitian on my mother’s side and Greek on my father’s, and I grew up spending summers in Haiti, which deepened my bond with my Haitian roots.
As a child, I thought I was destined to be a doctor. In college, I explored several paths before graduating from the University of South Florida in 2009 with a degree in psychology. From there, I spent more than a decade working in mental health, particularly with adults facing dual diagnoses who were also experiencing homelessness. I truly loved my clients, but I found myself frustrated by the administrative and bureaucratic side of the system.
Around 2018, I began experimenting with brows, and by October 2020, I fully stepped into entrepreneurship with the opening of my salon. My passion for beauty grew quickly, and in my late 30s, I made the decision to return to school—this time for esthetics. Going back to the classroom while already running a business felt a little unusual, but it gave me a unique perspective. In 2024, I officially earned my esthetician license, and since then, I’ve continued to take courses every few months to sharpen my skills—especially in treatments designed for clients with skin of color.
What I love most about my work is that it allows me to combine beauty with human connection. Every client who sits in my chair brings their own story, and I see each service as an opportunity to enhance their confidence while also connecting with them on a personal level. In many ways, that still ties back to my background in psychology—it’s about listening, understanding, and helping people feel their best inside and out.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of my biggest challenges was making the transition from a stable career in mental health to entrepreneurship in beauty. It meant stepping into uncertainty and trusting myself. Financial risks, self-doubt, and even the challenge of going back to school later in life were real hurdles. But I overcame them by focusing on my “why”…helping people feel seen, beautiful, and confident. Continuing education and leaning into my community of mentors and clients has also kept me grounded and motivated.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Ezili Beauty Bar, I specialize in treatments for skin of color, including microshading and nano brows for all skin types, as well as facials that cater to diverse needs. I also take the time to educate my clients and create a safe, celebratory environment. Additionally, I teach microshading to new students, helping them gain a new career path, much like my own journey. My background in psychology ensures that every client feels understood and valued, and every student I mentor is empowered to succeed.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
To me, success is deeply personal and rooted in both my professional journey and my family values and the legacy. Losing my mom in 2021 was a profound moment that reshaped my perspective on what truly matters. Success, for me, is about making her proud by living out my passion and legacy. It’s about being a dedicated professional in the beauty industry and making a real difference in my clients’ lives. When I see positive impact I have on my clients, helping them feel confident and valued, it reminds me that I’m on the right path. Success is also about continuous growth and learning, both personally and professionally. It’s about staying true to my roots, honoring my heritage, and ensuring that every step I take reflects the values I hold dear. Lastly, success is also defined by the knowledge I pass on. Teaching microshading is incredibly fulfilling because it allows me to help others build new careers and thrive- similar to how i was able to.
Pricing:
- Microshading Brows- $525 (permanent cosmetic technique that creates a soft, powdered effect for the eyebrows, giving them a fuller, more defined look. It’s especially great for those with oily skin or who want a more subtle, long-lasting brow enhancement)
- Nano Brow Combination- $600 (Nano combination brows blend two techniques: nano hair strokes for a natural, hair-like look and shading for added fullness and definition. The result is a very natural yet polished brow appearance.)
- Facials range from $90- $180 (Basic facial, Microdermabrasion, Hydrafacial, Deluxe, Dermaplaning)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ezilibeautybar
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CpHFGMBqD/
- Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6BYr35qjREGM1NCb9
Image Credits
All images are owned by me.
