Today we’d like to introduce you to Alina Thorne.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My love of beauty started at the age of four. I have so many memories and pictures growing up of me giving makeovers to my sisters, mom, and even my uncle (lucky him). In seventh grade, I even played the role of “esthetician” and unfortunately tweezed all my friend’s eyebrows out because that was the “in” look and I was the one they would come to for those services. Luckily, some of those childhood friends are still my clients and we are flourishing with thick, full, and fluffy brows. At 18, my mom asked me what I wanted to do after high school and the answer came easy: I wanted to be in aesthetics. I have always struggled with acne and it was embarrassing because I had no clue on how to help my issue… so when asked that question I said to her “I want to help people feel confident, I want to be a day maker.” I immediately jumped into esthetics school at Douglas J. Aveda in Lincoln Park and loved every moment of it. My journey in this field has been intriguing: from the science to the stunning makeovers, clients coming in with before and afters of their acne journey, the growth of the brow niche, to even just taking someone’s mood and completely flipping it in just a short session. Not everyone gets to wake up and do what they love and I feel very grateful that I had support pursuing my dream from the very beginning. Today, I continue to freelance, and I also work at the Cowshed Spa at Soho House in West Loop.
Has it been a smooth road?
Few things in life go smooth or as planned but genuine enjoyment and passion for what I do make the rough patches always worth it. One of my struggles was being inconsistent in the pursuit of projects/ideas fully. I think the biggest trouble that a lot of people new or old to this industry struggle with is consistency and mindfulness to their pursuit. I’ve learned persistence is one of the most important determinants of success in any aspect of business and life. You really can elevate to become among the very best in anything if you immerse yourself in that one thing and commit to your success.
I would advise all women, particularly young professionals, to take the opportunities that scare you. Don’t be so hard on yourself and stop comparing yourself to others. Get out and network with people that intimidate you. Share your work and refine your skill through practice and learning. Don’t dwell on mistakes: everyone makes them. Learn from them and focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Your struggles, hard work, and dedication will pay off!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with your business – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I work as a Licensed Esthetician: I specialize in skin and skin care. I have heard it described as a “personal trainer” for your skin. I provide a wide array of services including facials, waxing, tinting, threading, brow shaping, and makeup.
I would say I am most known for brow makeovers. I like to go for more natural looks and I ascribe to the mantra that “less is more” when it comes to beauty and makeup. What sets me apart from others is an obsession with detail and I really consulting with my clients to break down what look they want to go for or what issue they’re needing to be resolved. Each service is customized to fit their needs and I take pride in being able to deliver results and making women feel beautiful and empowered!
Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well positioned for?
The word “sentient” came to mind when reading this question. A woman has intuition, patience, and compassion, and so I believe she is particularly well positioned for any role that requires these qualities.
The most influential women in my life have always nourished me as a person and instilled me with a growth mindset. They also had the ability to adjust to circumstances, despite facing adversity. These qualities typify the essence of a woman: the caregiver who makes us feel refreshed and uplifted. In truth, women are the ideal candidate for leadership positions because of the emotional and logical agility that enables us to not only advocate for personal growth but also to transcend into making deep human connections.
Contact Info:
- Address: Soho House Chicago
113 N. Green Street
Chicago, IL 60607 - Email: alinakcervantes@gmail.com
- Instagram: alina_thorne
Image Credit:
bbartistry_spa
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
