Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Van Orden.
Born and raised in New Hampshire Lisa is a New England based entrepreneur. She is the founder of the award-winning skincare and makeup boutique “Studio LAVO”. She is also an award-winning, agency represented makeup artist whose clients include Patriots cheerleaders, Miss America’s OT, Hasbro, FYI Network, HGTV, Boston Fashion Week, Jet Blue, The Fashion Hero. Lisa has won #1 Makeup artist in NH by the Union Leader for the past 3 years and was featured in a two-page article in the states largest newspaper publication.
Her Beauty lounge recently won #1 Skincare & Makeup Boutique in NH Magazine. Lisa gives her time as Co-director for the Miss Merrimack/Greater Hooksett scholarship programs and she and her business are very involved in the community! Studio LAVO is a drop-off location for “Wands for Wildlife”. The organization collects use mascara wands to send out to different nonprofits throughout the world to help to clean off small animals that may have been affected by oil spills or infestations.
She has worked with local charities and nonprofits for the past 15 years. She has been involved in the pageant industry in a multitude of ways, judging choreographing, directing and competing. She was a competitor in the Miss America organization, Miss NH USA, top 15 at the Miss United States, top 8 at Elite Miss Earth, and more recently the winner of International Ms 2018! Lisa has been busy traveling and making appearances for her title of International Ms. and was recently asked to be a keynote speaker at her alma mater Southern NH University!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I knew early on that I wanted to get into the beauty industry however it was so important to me to receive my college degree. I was the first female in my family to graduate from college, so I wanted to ensure that I achieve that goal. I financed my education myself through student loans and scholarship dollars whom through pageantry.
A few years into my career in marketing, I decided that I was not happy with my career and wanted a change. I took a leap of faith and decided to go back to school for aesthetics for my NH Licensure. It was certainly a long and challenging road to finally make that decision but it was the greatest decision that I had ever made. I knew that I was starting over and decided to network with as many other artists as possible. I offered to shadow other artists, clean brushes, and carry bags at fashion shows in order to learn the industry. Within five years, I have catapulted my brand to be number one in my area and I’m extremely proud.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Studio LAVO Beauty Boutique – what should we know?
Studio LAVO is an award-winning beauty lounge that offers all things glam! LAVO is a unique boutique spa that offers services including makeup and lessons, relaxing skincare treatments, waxing, spray tanning and lash/Brow services. We also offer onsite services. Onsite services include weddings, parties, bachelorettes, fashion shows, photo shoots and events. Our most sought after services are the 24K Gold under eye and lip treatment, mother-daughter makeup, lashes, and the “Venetian” Spray tan!
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Myself and my business have been involved in the community for the past 15 years. I believe that a true leader is someone who has integrity and the desire to give back. My civic duty has always been incredibly important to me, and it is also opened many new doors and opportunities that are transferable into my business.
Contact Info:
- Address: 27 Webster St
- Website: Studiolavo.com
- Phone: 6036570005
- Email: studiolavo@skincaretherapy.net
Image Credit:
Georgina Vaughan, Bret Joseph’s, Sharon Watkins photography
Mo Mendes of Granimo photography
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager 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.
