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

Hi Jia, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose to pursue an artistic career because I have always wanted an avenue to express my true self while showcasing and sharing my many gifts with the world. The freedom of having a creative career allows one to be a multifaceted individual who inspires through the arts.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
JIA LAFRANCE believes that true art is about expressing oneself and that there is no right or wrong way in doing so. This is what sets my brand apart from others. Not only do I style and accessorize my clients, I play a major role in providing makeup services for bridal parties. Having the ability to make my clients feel beautiful, inside and out on their special day is what I am most proud of. During my time in Cosmetology school, I discovered a love for makeup and skincare. After graduation, I worked at multiple cosmetic counters including Estee Lauder, Bobbi Brown and MAC. Working for those brands taught me everything I needed in order to start my own freelance makeup services. My flare for fashion was the drive behind the boutique side of my brand. Running a successful business is never easy. The key to overcoming challenges is consistency and hard work. You have to have a passion for what you are doing and how you will impact the lives of others. This is what I want the world to know.

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 was coming to visit, there are plenty of eating spots that we would definitely hang out at. A few would include the Mexican Bar Company because they have the best bartenders, queso dip and tacos along with an amazing atmosphere. I would also take her to the Modern Market for a barbecue pizza or a blackened chicken mango bowl with a very tasty ginger peach lemonade. We would definitely dress up one night and have dinner at RH RoofTop. The Galleria Mall in Dallas would be must visit because we both love to shop. The Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit would also be an adventure for me and my bestie as well as a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art.

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 mother has always been my No. 1 supporter. She taught me that being my authentic self is my contribution to the world. She inspires me to be brave and bold when it comes to expressing my style. My mother constantly encourages me to utilize every one of my gifts and never apologize for being internally beautiful. My mother is my muse.

Website: www.jialafrance.com

Instagram: missjialafrance

Image Credits
Candace Harris Imani Khayyam

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