A couple months ago, we asked readers to submit the Story from their Soul.  This is the story of one’s entrepreneurial journey… the story of when your soul was on fire with the passion for business ownership!  You can read other Soul Stories here.

This is the story of Betsy diFrancesca, Hair and Makeup Artist based in Los Angeles...

I moved to Los Angeles from NYC in 1986.  With my small portfolio, I signed with  the Zenobia Agency.  I started out by assisting artists who were more established, doing commercials, music videos and photo shoots. Eventually, the Agency began sending me out for jobs I could do on my own.  Most of the work I was getting was in the commercial world, which I really enjoyed. I had a few steady production companies and everything was going quite well.  Then, around the mid 90’s, things started to change. Production companies were splitting up, directors were coming from music videos. The “Dot Com” era  seemed to encourage a certain bravado among the advertising agencies which created an ugly feeling on the set. I wasn’t having fun anymore.  Then 9/11 happened.

I guess that was my “aha” moment. I just felt like life was too short to be unhappy at my job. I needed to get my priorities straight. I didn’t want to stop doing hair & makeup, I just wanted to be happy at work. I always liked doing weddings. I  dabbled in them when the commercial work was slow. Plus, the internet seemed to be a great way to start a new business.  I wouldn’t have to give up the work I loved ; I could do weddings but put more of my own “brand”  on it.  So, I told my agent that I wouldn’t be accepting any more commercial work. I got a web address  and began building a new aspect of my business. And, I love it!  Every day I learn something new .  I love what I can bring to it that isn’t just about hair and makeup.  I love that  it’s really important to create an atmosphere that’s calm and serene; that it’s important to listen and anticipate what the bride might need . It’s the most important day of her life and I feel honored to be a part of it.

Thanks Betsy!

If you want to submit your soul story, you still can.  The contest has passed… but we always love a good story!  Submit here.