Today we’d like to introduce you to Elissa Phan Montpelier.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born and raised in a small town in the northwest region of Vietnam, near the borders of Laos and China. After finishing high school, I passed the university entrance exam and became a journalist. I worked in Hanoi, where I met my husband during my reporting career. We got married, and I later moved to the United States to start a new chapter of my life.
Like many other mothers, I spent the early years caring for my children. A few years later, I made the decision to enroll at Tennessee School of Beauty to study cosmetology, instead of continuing in journalism. I felt that working and learning a trade would be the fastest way to adapt to a new country—especially when facing challenges like a different language and culture. I wasn’t that young anymore, so I needed a practical path forward. Looking back, choosing a hands-on career was one of the smartest decisions I’ve made.
After graduating, I applied to many salons but no one hired me. So, I took a leap of faith and opened my own business—running it the way I envisioned. Seven years later, I’m proud to say that my studio has become a trusted and well-known beauty destination in the city. I’ve served thousands of clients, and more importantly, I’ve transitioned into teaching. Sharing updated techniques and professional training has allowed me to help many young people earn their licenses and build strong foundations in the beauty industry.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting over in a new country came with many challenges—language, culture, and a completely different work environment. I had to learn not only new skills, but also how to understand customers’ expectations and the local standard of service, which were very different from what I was used to.
After finishing beauty school, I couldn’t find anyone willing to hire me. That rejection pushed me to build something on my own. I started small—doing everything myself, saving every little bit of money to buy extra chairs, tables, and supplies for my studio. Balancing motherhood, adapting to a new country, and trying to grow a business from scratch was incredibly difficult. But all those challenges helped shape my strength and resilience. I’m grateful for every step, even the hardest ones, because they brought me to where I am today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a licensed PMU artist and educator, and the founder of Harmony Studio. I specialize in eyebrow tattooing, lip blushing, and natural-looking enhancements. I’m known for my gentle technique and attention to detail, tailoring each result to fit my client’s unique features.
What I’m most proud of is building Harmony from the ground up and turning it into both a trusted beauty studio and a training center. I provide hands-on education with real models to help students gain the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
What sets me apart is my journey—from journalism in Vietnam to building a new life and career in the U.S. That experience drives my passion to empower others through beauty and education.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Resilience. I’ve faced language barriers, cultural differences, rejections, and the challenges of starting over in a new country. But I never gave up. I believe the ability to keep going—even when things are difficult—is what has helped me build Harmony Studio and grow as both an artist and educator. That mindset allows me to face each challenge as an opportunity to grow.”
Pricing:
- Yes, I’d be happy to share some pricing details for Harmony Studio’s most popular services:” • Eyebrow Tattoo (Ombre/Powder Brows): Starting at $450 • Lip Blushing: Starting at $500 • Touch-up Sessions: From $150 • Training Programs: Starting at $2,500 (including live model practice and certification guidance
- Eyebrow Tattoo (Ombre/Powder Brows/Microblading/ nano Hairstrocke): Starting at $750
- Lip Blushing/ Eyeliner: Starting at $500
- Touch-up Sessions: From $200
- Training and internship program : from $2500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.harmonypermanentmakeup.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/browsbyelissa?igsh=MWRscTFrNmR6czJocQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AufgqRCBd/?mibextid=wwXIfr
