Meet Shannon Balenciaga | SkinCare Innovator

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

Hi Shannon, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting AnnAga Luxury Skincare was deeply personal. I realized that we weren’t adequately represented in the global branding and marketing space. For years, I’ve been a vendor at RuPaul’s DragCon in Los Angeles, watching individuals build multi-million-dollar brands. It was frustrating because I had those same ideas whether in fashion or beauty, years ago while managing Mariah Balenciaga during Season Three selection. But every time we knocked on doors, they were slammed in our faces. And let’s be honest, one of the biggest reasons was the color of our skin.

Then, last year, I had an ‘aha’ moment at the convention. I looked around and made a promise to myself: I would never return without my own brand. From that moment, I went home and worked day and night, researching, making connections, and building AnnAga from the ground up. I created everything the name, logo, illustrations, business plan, marketing, photography, social media every single aspect of the brand. It has been a labor of love, like carrying a child for nine months, pouring everything into it, and then finally bringing it into the world.

It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. Through every challenge, headache, and moment of doubt, I kept pushing. Seeing Beyoncé honor us, uplift our community, and donate through BeyGOOD was inspiring, but it also made me realize something: within ballroom, we had no tangible products no brands we could present to the world beyond performance. That was a wake-up call for me. If we wanted real investment, real elevation, we had to create something that extended beyond the ballroom stage. That realization lit a fire under me, and AnnAga was born.

From the very beginning, inclusivity has been at the heart of AnnAga. I created this skincare line not just for women, but also for men and for those whose pronouns don’t fit into conventional categories, including They. In addition, we’ll be debuting a dedicated kids’ line, ensuring that skincare is accessible for all ages.

One thing that sets AnnAga apart is our approach to packaging. I’ve always been drawn to limited-edition, seasonal designs, and we’re tapping into something that no one else is doing changing our packaging for every holiday. While we have our signature ‘Inception’ packaging, we also release special editions that speak to different people, making every experience with AnnAga feel fresh, unique, and personal. And I love that for us.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been nothing short of amazing exciting, eventful, and never a dull moment. If you’ve seen my episode on VH1’s My True Crime Story with Remy Ma, you’ve gotten a glimpse into my past. At 18, I went to federal prison. Some might see that as a downfall, but for me, it was a blessing in disguise. If I hadn’t gone, I wouldn’t have met the individuals who changed my perspective, set me on a path to greatness, and helped me become the person I am today. It wasn’t an easy road, and while I sometimes wished for a different path, I know now that this was my journey one designed specifically for me.

I’ve always been a creative spirit with a deep passion for beauty, skincare, and fashion. Over the years, I’ve had countless ideas, but financial struggles, my past, and a lack of support from those around me often held me back. At times, I wasn’t even my own biggest supporter.

The turning point came when I made a choice to take the same energy I once poured into the wrong things and redirect it toward something meaningful. Being a part of HBO’s LEGENDARY, receiving an invitation from Taraji P. Henson to showcase beauty, fashion, and ballroom at the BET Awards these moments only solidified my purpose. I knew then that I was meant to bring representation and visibility to a beauty community that had long been overlooked and silenced.

And let me tell you it’s much harder doing things the right way than the wrong way. But I’m here for the long haul. My journey didn’t happen overnight, and while some might say I’m stepping into this later in life, I believe purpose is never delayed it’s always right on time. AMEN…..

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had friends visiting Atlanta, the experience would depend on the season but no matter when they come, I’d make sure they see what makes this city truly special. If it’s football season, we’re heading to a Falcons game. If it’s basketball season, a Hawks game is a must. Atlanta’s energy is unmatched when it comes to sports or concerts.

Of course, no visit would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s finest dining. I’d take them to my go-to spots like Chops, The Garden Room, Atlas, H&W Steakhouse, and New York Prime. Each offers a unique, elevated experience that showcases Atlanta’s incredible culinary scene.

For shopping, we’d make stops at Phipps Plaza and Lenox Mall because when in Atlanta, you have to shop in style. And to keep the fun going, we might catch a great movie, go bowling, or a game of UNO or Spades. But the best part? Bringing everyone together new friends, old friends, and chosen family for a night of laughter, connection, and unforgettable memories. That’s what truly makes Atlanta amazing.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to take a moment to recognize and give a heartfelt shoutout to those who have played a role in my journey.

First and foremost, I want to honor the House of Balenciaga. I created AnnAga in tribute to my house (Shannon “ANN” & BalenciAGA “AGA” ), ensuring that we have a lasting legacy something tangible, something no one has done before. This business is built under our 501(c)(3) nonprofit, a true family business, much like the legacy of Madam C.J. Walker, the Dudley family, and Bronner Brothers some of the Black businesses that paved the way before us. Legacy matters, and I want ours to be one that inspires and endures. I also want to pay homage to Buffie Purselle. Everyone needs a best friend like her someone who pushes you, cheers for you like a dedicated cheerleader, and reminds you of your greatness at every step. That kind of support is priceless.

Another person I must acknowledge is my dear friend Jennifer Beck. When you have someone who pours into you, who tells you to keep going, who believes in you even when you doubt yourself that’s a gift. Jennifer has been that for me, and I’m forever grateful.

I also want to extend my gratitude to Steve, Miss Lawrence, Sherrie, Ann, Harold, Duante, House of Balenciaga and everyone who has played a part in my journey. From where I’ve been to where I am now, your love and support have made all the difference. This is bigger than just me it’s about all of us, and I carry you all with me as I continue to build and grow.

Website: https://annagaluxuryskincare.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/shannonbalenciaga

Youtube: https://youtube.com/shannonbalenciaga

Other: shannonbalenciaga.com
instagram.com/annagaluxuryskincare.com
houseofbalenciaga.org
instagram.com/culturecouturepodcast

Image Credits
first 6 photos Elbert Ivory Ei Managment