Category: WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

AN INTERVIEW WITH ANA DELAGILLO OF PRESSEDBBY

Published on by Crystal Lee1 Comment

Hello beauties, it’s time to shed more light on women who are doing great things in the world. Today, we are super excited to announce our newest segment for BeautyLeeBar.com: a recurring interview series dubbed Ladies Who Inspire. Ever so often, we will spotlight one empowering beauty who is making an impact in the digital realm. These are ladies you’ll want to get to know and learn from. No matter the skin color or the job title, we are always delighted to partner up with women who inspire us daily.

Today, we introduce Ana Delagillo of PressedBby.com. Is the name sounding familiar? That is because last week we shared luxury pressed on nails that you can do at home for an affordable price which happened to be one of Ana Delagillo brands. Ana is a makeup artist and business owner who is inspiring her supporters through beauty and fitness.

Here’s what Ana had to say about her journey so far…

Let’s start from the beginning. How did you transition from being a Makeup Artist to being a fitness influencer then into running your own company?

This is a complex question, lol! So, makeup and fitness have always been huge for me. Makeup artistry helped me express my creativity and boost my self-confidence, which is something I had an extremely hard time with growing up due to bullying. Fitness, on the other hand, was my savior in terms of keeping me healthy. I was on a ton of medication for depression and PTSD in the past that caused me to gain an extreme amount of weight so working out also helped my self-confidence and self-esteem. As I grew on social media, I noticed that my passion wasn’t only makeup artistry or fitness, but helping young women feel empowered overall. Once I figured this out, I started posting my fitness journey on Instagram and noticed it was helping a lot of people start their journeys. I felt like I wasn’t doing much by just posting my progress on socials so I decided to start my own companies to further cater to my audience whether it’s through Pressed Bby or Peach Wear (which I’m still working on).

What has been your favorite makeup look that you have created whether it was on yourself or a client?

My favorite makeup looks that I have created has to be on my clients. All the looks I do for my clients have a place in my heart because they always leave my chair feeling confident, empowered, and like they can conquer anything! I had a wedding client a couple of years back and it was the most special thing ever because she cried and told me how beautiful she felt. That’s honestly the most gratifying thing about being a makeup artist.

How would you describe your style in terms of being a beauty influencer?

My style, I would say, is very raw. I don’t try to fit in! I’m just my authentic self and I hope to inspire others to be their authentic selves no matter what anyone might say or think!

Can you share some tips for people looking to enter the social media world?

The biggest thing is not to compare yourself to others! Not going to lie, I struggled with this when I started my influencing journey. I get it, it’s hard not to compare yourself to others with more likes, and followers, etc. but that’s not what matters! What matters is that you’re putting out content that you genuinely love, no matter the analytics! Also, don’t feed into the negativity! People will leave rude comments, it’s life, but remember it’s always a reflection of them and NOT you.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs who want to follow their dreams and start their own company?

Let go of the fear! Fear is the biggest thing holding many, many people back. Life is about risks and taking that leap of faith. Yes, you’ll make mistakes, especially as a young entrepreneur, but that’s how you learn! That’s how you grow, so as hard it may be, take those mistakes as a blessing! If you didn’t make mistakes, you would never know what to improve on.

Ana Delgadillo

We are huge fans of your Instagram. Do you have any tips or tricks for achieving an aesthetically awesome Instagram page?

Thank you!! I love planning out my posts, so using Photoshop (or anything similar) to plan my posts ahead of time and making sure they all look cohesive is extremely helpful in achieving an aesthetically pleasing feed!

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What is your favorite part about owning your own company?

I think it has to be how much you learn! Nobody in my family has ever leaped starting their own business so I love expanding my knowledge and knowing that I CAN do it. Aside from that, it’s super gratifying to see your business start growing and knowing YOU DID THAT!

What is the biggest lesson you have learned since launching your own company?

Doing your research beforehand! There’s so much that goes into creating your own company, so having a list of all the things you need to do before actually starting your business is KEY! For example, the why behind your company, who is your target audience, what are your differentiating factors, etc.

What has been the best moment of your career so far?

I would say the fact that I can just see myself growing into the person I’m meant to be! All the experiences I’ve had thus far, both positive and negative, are all equally as important to me. They all teach you lessons!

What’s your favorite part about doing collaborations?

My favorite part about doing collaborations is working with others! Whether I’m doing collaborations with a brand or another influencer, you always learn so much!

Ana Delgadillo

Words to live by?

Dreams don’t work unless you do!

What is next for Pressed Bby and Peach Wear?

I’m currently rebranding Pressed Bby and adding some new exciting things to the website! As for Peach Wear, I’m hoping to launch by the end of this year or the beginning of next year! When that’s complete, I plan on doing events and workshops to meet new people and continue my mission to empower young women!

Is there any woman who inspires you? Why? (In life, fashion, beauty, etc)

Oh my goodness, there are so many! First of all, my mother. She came to this country with nothing but the clothes on her back and me as a baby and managed to make sure my sister and I never needed anything. She taught me to always strive for better and that everything is possible no matter what happens along the way. The second person, I would say, is Nastassia Ponomarenko. Watching her motivational videos and seeing how she was able to create a successful company at the age of 16 was the push I needed to throw my fear out of the window and start my own! I know the next person isn’t a woman BUT he inspires me so much, Gary Vaynerchuck. I listen to his podcasts every morning and the insight and knowledge he gives out to people, willingly, honestly changes your perspective on so many things!

Do you have any upcoming events that we should watch out for?

No events at the moment, but hopefully in the next couple of years I can launch a secret project I’m working on to help young women all around the world who have gone through similar hardships as I have, and set up workshops so we can all come together and help them get through it ️🤍 I can’t give more details on this special project, but it’s something to watch out for!

Define beauty in your own words?

Beauty, to me, comes from the heart & not appearance. I know it’s super cliché to say, but I genuinely believe that a person’s heart is much more valuable than their looks! It’s the way you interact with others, how you see the world and how you treat yourself.

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What have you learned from being around other beauty creators?

I learned that we all have a unique voice! I struggled to find my “differentiating” factor in the industry but with a little time and a little analyzing, I realized that we’re all unique. We all have our own experiences that make us stand out from the rest. If you’re struggling with this, just know that your experiences are unique to you and it shaped you to the person you are today. I’m kind of going on a tangent but this also helped stop comparing myself to others because we’re all supposed to be unique ️🤍

Do you have any beauty and skincare routine that you follow religiously? If so can you tell the viewers some tips on how to get beautify like you!

SPF! I feel like sunscreen is super overlooked and many people believe that you don’t need it if you don’t go out or if the sun isn’t out, but girl! UVA & UVB rays are everywhere and they do not discriminate lol sun or not. Wear your sunscreen and drinks LOTS of water! OH, and don’t sleep with your makeup on lol!

Before closing out, what would you like for BLB readers and your supporters to know about you?

My supporters already know this lol, since I’m always saying this! There’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, whether you’re having a bad day, a bad week, or a bad month; things will ALWAYS get better. You’re stronger and smarter than you know!

Keep up with ANA DELGADILLO amazing work on her YouTube and on Instagram here!

Who would you like to see me interview in my next Beauty Who Inspire?

Chat with us in the comments below.

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Meet Tiana Musarra: An Influencer To Keep An Eye On

Published on by Crystal Lee1 Comment

The Influencer world has completely evolved and transformed in ways none of us could have ever imagined. Today, one 42-minute “tell all” YouTube video can create drama heard all around the world. Vloggers are fighting and the internet is eating it up.

But it goes beyond petty feuds and fueling “tea accounts.” The opportunities that come from social media are endless. Just a few short years ago, it was almost unfathomable that you could make a living by being an Influencer, but here we are.

Tiana Musarra, a New York City native who currently resides in Miami. She started her YouTube channel in 2019 to share fitness tips and to showcase her style with brands who she was working with. One year later, she has more than 340,000 YouTube subscribers with over 30,353,346 views, and an Instagram follower count of more than 330,000.

Tiana is a 22-year-old positive upbeat Latina that continues to grow and strive while mixing beauty with self-worth, which has grown her channel in a positive light that keeps her supporters entertained which is impressive and admirable. She has been able to work with different brands because of this.

Read on to find out how Tiana’s life has evolved since launching her channel and the new ways she learned to connect with her subscribers.

Q1: How did you get into the influencer realm?

when I started making videos on YouTube I started using my Instagram more and being consistent led into that realm.

Q2: How did you get into modeling?

I did modeling when I was younger and was signed to an agency, but stopped for a while. When I started using social media more I started taking it more seriously.

Q3: What do you enjoy most about Modeling and YouTube?

Love being able to create, travel and work for myself.

Q4: Can you recall one unforgettable moment that happened on a photo shoot set?

Hmmm… probably walking my first runway at Miami Swim Week. I always wanted to do that so getting the opportunity to do it was awesome.

Q5: Do you have any beauty and skincare routine that you follow religiously? If so can you tell the viewers some tips on how to get beautiful clear skin like you!

Yes, I always put eye cream in the morning and at night no matter what. Best thing would be to drink a lot of water and always wash your face before bed. I also make sure I get facials twice a month at the Box Med Spa too. I’m obsessed with skin!

Q6: You are always positive and upbeat! What about your spiritual routine? How do you keep zen?

Wake up and say what I’m grateful for then pray. Throughout the day I pray and before bed I do the same ritual that I did in the morning. Of course, I go through some tough times but my faith gets me through them.
 

Q7: What have you learned from being around other beauty creators?

I’m not around many but what I learned is that you should always be yourself and do things you actually enjoy not just for money.

Q8: Define beauty in your own words?

Beauty to me is just loving the way God made you. Confidence is beauty.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7pfQ_knoiJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Q9: What advice can you give to the younger generation who is interested in following your footsteps?

Be consistent, be yourself no matter what and ignore the negative people. If you let someone upset you on the internet in this life style you won’t make it far. You have to have thick skin.

Q10: What aspect of this artistry excites you the most?

Always having somewhere new to see and learn about. Also how it pushes me to come out of my comfort zone.

Q11: Do you have any upcoming events that we should watch out for?

I have a few things coming, like a new song that I wrote which is dropping very soon.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B_yBCFwn5UD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Q12: Speaking of music, heard you wrote a song called “Heaven”, which is beautiful by the way. Are we going to hear more music from you?

Thank you so much. Yes definitely, I have a new song dropping in May and some more cool stuff on the way.

Q13: Is there any woman who inspires you? Why? (In life, fashion, music, etc)

My mom. She used to be a model in Colombia and is always teaching me valuable things. Sofia Loren, because she is classy but still sexy at the same time. Kim Kardashion because she does what she wants and never worries about what other people think which admirable. She is smart, successful, and family oriented.

Q14: What are your plans for modeling and how are you preparing yourself for all the wonderful blessings?

I’d like to sign to an agency that feels right me. While that is in motion, I’m just making sure to stay busy and creative. Whatever God brings my way, I’m thankful for.

Q15: Tell us some fun facts about yourself that your supporters don’t know

Used to play the trumpet. People always laugh when I tell them that.

Q16: Are you in college? If so, what is your major?

Yes, I am. Almost done with my Bachelors Degree in Hospitality Management.

Q17: Describe your typical day to day life?

Wake up, pray, have coffee, work out, record a video, take photos, edit, do school work. If I still have time after all that, I’ll watch anime or write music.

Q18: What motivated you to start your own YouTube Channel and to start writing music?

For YouTube, a friend gave me some advice and pushed me to do it. And for music, I always wrote my feelings down in my notes or a book , and one day I was like I need to hear this sung. The song came to life and so from that day on I just never stopped.

Q19: Your supporters tune in for your style and fitness advice all the time. But, where do you get your daily inspiration from?

I get a lot of inspiration from women from back in the day like Sofia Loren. As well as Kim Kardashian-West, I love her style. As far as fitness goes, I always workout to be healthy and do feel good.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CABh6faHxuY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Q20: What would you say is your go-to fitness routine and meal prep?

I train lower body, upper body and cardio each 2x a week and I actually don’t do meal preps. Just try to get enough protein in the day and eat enough meals.

Q21: When was the turning point for you when you realized that your social media presence was shining brighter than ever before? And how did the newfound popularity transform your personal life and your professional?

I don’t consider there to be a real turning point because I don’t think I’m anywhere close to being where I want to be yet. But, what has been cool was when my videos hit over a million and when I would go to random places and people knew me. The way it transformed my life is that I realized you have to be really careful who you are around and who to trust.

Q22: Do you have any other interests/hobbies unrelated to fashion and fitness that you are also passionate about?

Love looking at art and listening/learning about music.

Q23: Being an Influencer comes with a lot of criticism, so how do you keep your faith alive?

I pray and talk to God about everything and go to church on Sundays. you have to remind yourself no matter what you do, people will have an opinion so you can’t worry about it. Just live your life.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B37YYBDnDiz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Keep up with Tiana Musarra amazing work on her YouTube and on Instagram here!

Who would you like to see me interview for my next WOMEN WHO INSPIRE? Let me know in the comments below!

MORE WOMEN WHO INSPIRE:

– WOMEN WHO INSPIRE: CHATTING WITH FITNESS GURU, MODEL & REALITY STAR JENNA COMPONO

– JANELLE MUGHANNAM

– JULIA ROSE

– LAURA

POSTS YOU’LL LOVE:

Janelle Mughannam

Published on by Crystal Lee1 Comment

HERSTORY

Janelle Mughannam is a Certified Fitness Trainer, food, and lifestyle Vlogger who is known on YouTube as Coco Janelle. She has earned more than 40,000 subscribers creating exercise videos, meal prep tips, and clothing hauls, amongst other vlogs.

Coco Janelle is a California-based brand ambassador, she has become popular on Instagram, earning upwards of 218,000 followers.

She is of Palestinian, Egyptian and Jordanian descent. She has one sister, Celine, and one brother, Farris. She is in business with her younger sister, Celine “Cece” who is also a Fitness and Fashion Influencer on Instagram.

I was given the opportunity to interview Janelle Mughannam, here’s what Janelle “Coco” had to say ….

What inspired you to create FITWSIS?

At first our account started as a fitness account that shares tips and secrets about fitness. Today we transformed it into a start-up business with clients from all over the world.  Our mission is to guide people towards a healthier lifestyle. Every body is unique; each with its own strengths and limitations. Our method is to motivate and inspire you in any way possible. Our aim is not only to transform your body, but to influence you in making more mindful decisions when it comes to your health. We believe in finding the pleasurable side of fitness, and while there may be a sore muscle or two along the way, the amount of fun and levels of energy you will experience will far exceed the discomfort.


What have you learned during this journey?

I learned to work harder and to manage my time. Running a start-up business by yourself is difficult. My sister and I do all the work ourselves and it definitely  taught us to not procrastinate and to be better every single day.


Define beauty in your own words?

Beauty is something we cannot see because its from within 🙂


What is it like working with your sister on fitwsis, that not only benefits you guys but it is also helping people to live a better and happy life?

We love it! I feel like it has also brought us closer:) Plus working with a sibling is easier because you can fight and argue about something and be fine 2 seconds later lol. We have similar minds so we are always bouncing ideas off of each other. We also have duties and individual jobs within our company which helps us stay on top on everything!


Of all the people in the fitness world, who would you love to collaborate with if given the opportunity?

Good question!!! My sister and I love @stef_fit. We see ourselves in her and we would love to work with her one day!


What advice can you give to young women who are interested in following your footsteps?

DO NOT RUSH. I feel like when I rush or push things they never work out as planned. If you want to start your own business there are alot of conditions you must accomplish first before diving head first. You need a plan, you need a targeted audience and you need an investment! Take your time to make sure everything you release is perfect and neat.


What aspect of this artistry excites you the most?

We love receiving messages and emails from girls who have seen results using our plans. That is probably the most satisfying thing about what we do. Seeing others happy, motivated, and inspired from FITWSIS is the icing on the cake. Thats when we know we made it!


What goals do you want to accomplish in your career and in life

Currently I am just trying to hustle as much as I can NOW so I can be great LATER.


Do you have any beauty routines and if so, what are they?

I have really sensitive skin so I take my time with my skin care routine though the day. I love taking myself to the spa or salon to get pampered every now and then 🙂 I think its important to take care of yourself, especially us girls


Do you have any upcoming events or plans we should watch out for?

I guess you’ll have to wait and see:)


What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?

I feel its because not enough women are supporting women who are on the top. If we have more women out there inspiring and changing the world then us women who concur. The future is female 🙂


Describe yourself in one word?

SPONTANEOUS!!I am always always up for new adventures and experiences.

I read that you are in College, what is your major?

I majored in Business Marketing and I have a concentration in Wine Studies. Yes wine:) I grew up in Sonoma County (near Napa which is the wine country of America).


Name 2 your beauty must-haves |Name 2 of your fitness must-haves

Beauty must-haves: Sunscreen + Moisturizer | Fitness must-haves: Water bottle + Music


Is there any woman who inspires you? Why?

My mother. She’s the most hard working person I know. I aspire to be as great as her one day.


What is your favorite healthy snack?

I love cheese platters with fruit!


Which one do you like better: being a YouTuber or being a Certified Fitness Trainer/Business Owner

I love youtube (even though I do not do it as much) because it showcases my personality 🙂


What is your favorite quote/poem?

“Girls Compete Women Empower” and “A year from now you’re going to wish you started today.”

INSTAGRAM – @COCOJANELLE
FITNESS/BRAND – @FITWSIS
YOUTUBE – JANELLEMUG
WEBSITE – FITWSIS.COM

Women Who Inspire: Chatting with Fitness Guru, Model & Reality Star Jenna Compono

Published on by Crystal Lee5 Comments

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Hello Beauties, I had the pleasure of interviewing reality tv star, Jenna Compono. I started this page because in a world full of hate and negativity, I thought let me be one of those people who bring some type of happiness in the world while also celebrating women in a positive light. "Women Who Inspire Me" is held very close to my heart because if you are a women who are chasing her dreams while being unapologetic herself then why not celebrate that. It doesn't matter what skin color, race, or religion you are, if my soul is inspired by you somehow then I will gladly collab with you.

Jenna Compono is an MTV Real World veteran and model who has appeared on The Challenge, Battle of the Exes II, Bloodlines, and The Challenge: Champs vs Stars. Ms.Compono is a true champ in my eyes, she always pushes herself to do better, to be better with such a delightful attitude. She doesn't pick fights with people and isn't a bully. Since the day she came across our tv screen, she has been the same happy bubbly Jenna that we fell in love with. 

Even though, Jenna has taken a break from tv to heal her ankle, she is still up in the gym sweating it out while making some moves to help cultivate her career. Today, Jenna opens up about her relationship, school, and more. Let's dive in...

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1. What inspired you to get into fitness?

Being on these competitive shows, it really opened my eyes that I needed to start building up muscle and endurance. I have to thank the Challenge for helping me realize I needed to spend more time in the gym!

2. What have you learned during this journey?

I have learned that even though these shows are full of drama, they are also a once in a lifetime opportunity that not many people can say they got to experience. I am truly blessed to be able to have the opportunity to be on so many.

3. Define beauty in your own words?

Beauty is all about being comfortable and confident in your own skin. It doesn’t matter what you look like on the outside, it’s all about what is on the inside; it’s about being unique.

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4. What was it like being on MTV’S The Challenge and Champs vs Stars?

It was a lot different from being on a regular challenge. We had a lot more off time and were able to keep our cell phones which was amazing. It was also different competing with people who are actual athletes. I had a lot of respect for them pausing their busy lives and coming out to compete for charity.

5. Of all the people in the fitness world, who would you love to collaborate with if given the opportunity? 

( I don’t really know fitness people sorry!) ahh

6. What advice can you give to young women who are interested in following your footsteps?

Never give up! Whether it be about fitness, dreams, opportunities or life! The harder you work the more will come from it. 

7. How has your life change since being on tv?

I am the same person on TV as I am off TV. Of course more people recognize you now, but I try to be the exact person I was before. I am still humble and still work hard. Being on TV was a treat and I enjoy every second of it, but it isn’t my entire life.

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8. What goals do you want to accomplish in your career and in life?

My main goal was to be a Sports Illustrated model, or a Victoria Secret model. Although I still haven’t made it there quite yet, I am not giving up. YOU JUST WAIT AND SEE! I will be there one day! My goal in life is to have a happy healthy family, a great job, stable income, and a gorgeous house.

9. Do you have any beauty routines and if so, what are they?

Every morning I wash my face, apply a toner and then CE Ferulic Acid, and every night I wash my face, use the toner and a moisturizer. I always wash my makeup off at night. It causes less breakouts and helps from your skin getting dull and wrinkled.

10. Do you have any upcoming events or plans we should watch out for?

Yes! The first week of June I will be In San Francisco doing an event with Leroy, Kam and CT. Stay updated on my Instagram @jennacompono I will be posting details as it gets closer.

11. What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?

I think that people font take women seriously, they just think it’s another pretty face. But watch out! We are BEAUTY AND BRAINS.

12. Describe yourself in one word?

  • Unique

13. What made you decide to join MAXIM’S FINEST?

I love being in front of the camera, I always have, and after shooting for years, I decided to send my photos into Maxim and was approved! I also had a bunch of my supporters telling me I would have a great shot if I tried out… and they were right! I was a finalist!

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14. Name 2 your beauty must-haves & Name 2 of your fitness must-haves

  • Mascara and Chapstick
  • Resistance bands and pre workout!

15. Is there any woman who inspires you? Why?

My mom inspires me because although we have been through a lot over the years, she has never given up on being a hard worker, a mom and making sure all of her kids had everything they needed to have a happy secure life. She’s the best woman I know.

16. Are you still interested in criminal justice?

Yes, I am still interested in criminal justice, and I do plan to get back to that as soon as my career with TV is over.

17. Are you single or that isn’t a priority right now?

I am not single. I am currently dating Zach Nichols who I originally met on my first season; Battle of the Exes II. Everything is going great and we are the happiest we have ever been.

18. What is your favorite quote/poem?

Work hard, stay humble.

19. What do you like best about your body?

I love that I am tall. I am 5’9 and with heels I am over 6 foot. I used to hate it when I was younger, being the tallest girl in class, but now I embrace it and show off my long legs! haha

20. What’s your typical workout routine?

I go to the gym everyday and do the stair master or treadmill for about an hour, then I workout with light weights or resistance bands for about 30 minutes. I also do hot yoga, hot Pilates and a hot booty and core workout. To sweat so much and get in a great body weight workout has become one of my favorite things!

Want to find out more about Jenna Compono? Check out her Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, & Facebook. 

Who would you like to see me interview next?