Meet Iris Olivera | Owner/ Gorgeous Faces

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

Hi Iris, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Passion: As a young girl growing up, I’ve always been deeply passionate about beauty and skincare. Creativity: I wanted and outlet to express my creativity and innovation. Mission: My goal is to empower individuals to feel confident and beautiful, which in many helps to build up self-esteem. Authenticity: I wanted to create a brand that reflects my values and authenticity of the person I am. Lastly, Fulfillment: I knew that pursuing my passion for beauty would bring me a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a devoted mother of three adult children and a passionate professional in the realm of Makeup Artistry and Beauty Products. My fascination with the beauty industry dates back to my teenage years when I found myself enchanted by the pages of beauty and fashion magazines, captivated by the stunning faces and impeccable style of the models featured within. Inspired by these images, I began experimenting with makeup, striving to recreate the looks that had captured my imagination. As I grew older, my involvement in the industry deepened, leading me to pursue modeling opportunities and immerse myself in a community of remarkably talented individuals.
As life evolved and my daughter embarked on her journey to college, I found myself contemplating how to fill the void that her absence would leave. It was during this time of introspection that I recognized an opportunity to turn my passion for makeup into a fulfilling career—one that would not only keep me engaged but also provide a source of income.
The inception of my business, “Gorgeous Faces™,” was sparked by a simple yet profound suggestion from a friend on Facebook. Recognizing the resonance of the name, I swiftly brought my vision to life, launching a venture that would come to define my professional trajectory.
Over the years, I have poured my heart and soul into honing my craft as a Makeup Artist, continually pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Similarly, my Beauty Products business has flourished, thanks to dedication, hard work, and strategic marketing efforts across various platforms.
At Gorgeous Faces™, I pride myself on delivering unparalleled service to my clients, understanding that their unique beauty deserves to be celebrated and enhanced. Whether it’s creating a look that exudes sweetness, sensuality, elegance, sassiness, or drama, I am committed to exceeding expectations and delivering results that reflect the highest standards of excellence.
As an independent Image, Makeup Artistry & Beauty Consultant, I pledge to uphold professionalism and integrity in all aspects of my work, ensuring that every client receives the utmost care and attention.
I am deeply grateful for the support and admiration I have received from countless clients over the years, and I am humbled to share their testimonials, which serve as a testament to the quality and dedication that define the Gorgeous Faces™ Brand.

“WOW!!!! I AM So INLoVE😘😘😘😘😘! That’s my reaction every time I see my face when I get my makeup done by Iris at Gorgeous Faces. To top it all off Iris is an Amazing Makeup Instructor. So, if you are in need of Professional Makeup Services or Tips on Skincare and Makeup Applications check her out at “Gorgeous Faces.” Image, Makeup Artistry & Beauty Consultation,”
SAMANTHA HUNTLEY / Hair Guru / Stylist

“Iris is one the best MUA’s I’ve ever met, she takes her time to craft her perfection. I have had my Make Up done by Iris on numerous occasions, Fashion Shows, Photo Shoots and Ms. Full Figured of NC Pageant, My Makeup has always been flawless and Beat to da Gods.”
BRENDA “SHERRELL” ALSTON

” Iris is a phenomenal makeup artist. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone who is seeking a professional for any occasion. She offered some great…very professional and very knowledgeable with cosmetics. She can recommend brands and colors that are right for you. She excels in professional application skills and also provides tips and tricks to clients. Working with her on more than a dozen photoshoots and events. I’ve seen magic before my eyes. Amazing! ”
MEL BROWN- PHOTOGRAPHER (may he rest in peace)

” Iris has done my makeup for two occasions. My wedding and a formal party. She did a phenomenal job! I received so many compliments. She is my Makeup Artist and I will continue to use her services!”
KAREN “MISSEY” JOHNSON

To those who wish to experience the allure of beauty firsthand, I extend a warm invitation to visit my official website, gorgeous-faces.com, and explore the range of services and products available. Your support is truly appreciated as I continue to pursue my passion and elevate the beauty industry to new heights.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Some of my favorite places to show a friend the best time ever would be to dine at one of my favorite restaurants called Nana’s which specializes in a collective influence of all our grandmothers, bound up in the warmth of the kitchen and the joy of food, prepared with love. Blends tradition with modern sophistication in Durham’s leafy Rockwood neighborhood. We would visit Walk the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Watch a Performance at the Durham Performing Arts Center.
Explore the Museum of Life & Science. Visit the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. The Streets at South Pointe Mall. And of course, The Parlour ice cream shop in downtown Durham. These are some of the things I think are the most fun places to hang out.

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?
I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to some remarkable individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping both my personal and professional journey in the beauty industry. Firstly, I want to acknowledge my beloved mother, Mrs. Hazel (may she rest in peace). Her unwavering support and encouragement have been a constant source of strength, empowering me to pursue my passions fearlessly.
Next, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to my daughter, Chelsea Kithcart. Her presence in my life has been profoundly influential, both personally and professionally. Her unwavering belief in me has fueled my determination to succeed in the beauty industry and beyond.
I am also immensely grateful for the support and guidance of numerous professionals who have contributed to the growth of my beauty brand. Toni Mozingo, for providing me with my very first platform to showcase my business during her uplifting seminars; Brett Ringgold (may he rest in peace), for offering me my first Radio Promotional Spotlight on Global Internet Radio; Phyllis Coley, for inviting me to promote my Charity Fashion Show produced by my Beauty Business on Foxy 107.1 104.3 Radio; and lastly, Tisha Joyner, for entrusting me with the opportunity to beautify a bride and her bridal party at my very first wedding.
To each of these individuals, and to countless others who have offered their encouragement, referrals, and guidance along the way, I am profoundly grateful. Your belief in me has been instrumental in the success of my beauty business, and I am forever indebted to you all.

Website: www.gorgeous-faces.com

Instagram: iris_gorgeous_faces and gorgeousfacesbeautyproducts

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iris.olivera.14?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Other: email: [email protected]

Image Credits
Chelsea Kithcart, Jocelyn Stevenson, Kylie Owen, Sara Moon, Cherritta Nickerson, Brenda Lady Sherrell, Qiana Abreu, Toneka Fairley, Patricia Rouse Sanders, Karen Missey Johnson, Samantha Huntley, Troy Kirk, Charlene Lee and Iris Olivera