Nail artistry is more than just a job – for some, it’s a calling. Rita’s journey into the world of nail artistry is one marked by unexpected turns, dreams, and a deep admiration for both her mother and, interestingly, Angelina Jolie.

In the chic interiors of Studio Leia Liberato, Rita masterfully crafts nails with precision and passion. As she holds a client’s hand, there’s a sparkle in her eyes and her tools glide smoothly, reminiscent of a painter lost in her art. But why Angelina Jolie, you ask?

“I’d love to have Angelina Jolie sit on my chair,” she says with a hopeful gleam. “I admire her profoundly as a professional. But if I’m to be honest, the person I admire most in my life is my mother.”

Rita’s mother was a powerhouse of a woman, brimming with resilience and strength. It’s from her that Rita drew inspiration and molded herself into the confident professional she is today. Every brush stroke, every glitter application, and every satisfied client is a testament to her mother’s enduring influence.

But Rita’s journey wasn’t always sparkling. If not for the allure of nail art, Rita would have immersed herself in the world of event planning – another passion she cherished. “I love what I do now, and that’s the best part about my job. But had things been different, organizing events would be my calling,” she shares.

An essential part of Rita’s charm lies in her genuine interactions with her clients. “I just be myself,” she chuckles, “and it breaks the ice every time!” This authenticity not only endears her to clients but also sets her apart.

But being organized also plays a crucial role. “I insist on pre-booked appointments,” she explains. “It’s a symbol of how organized I am. Plus, it gives clients the freedom to book according to their convenience.” And thanks to the online booking app ‘Noona’, she’s saved from the constant pings of phone calls and messages.

Now, looking at Rita’s confidence and prowess, it’s hard to imagine she once walked the halls of a college majoring in…accounting! A far cry from the world of nail artistry. “I despised it,” she admits.

It was Leia, the owner of the studio she currently works in, who spotted Rita’s potential. “She once told me that I was destined for greatness in the beauty industry.” Motivated by Leia’s words, Rita decided to undergo training one summer. Nine years on, she’s a celebrated nail artist.

“Starting was tough,” she recalls. “Clients often sensed my insecurity, making my job even harder.” But in the beauty industry, the professional hat often overlaps with that of a therapist. Clients seek more than just beauty treatments - they yearn for affirmation, advice, and a boost to their self-esteem.

It wasn’t until Rita began working under Leia’s guidance, precisely seven years ago on December 5th, that her career took a significant upturn. “That date changed everything,” Rita says with gratitude.

Leia Liberato Studio, for Rita, is not just a workplace. It’s a sanctuary, a haven. “We’re a family here,” she emphasizes. “The bond we share is unmatched.” Within this family, Rita shares a particularly close bond with Noona. They’re not just colleagues; they’re confidantes, often sharing conversations that go beyond work.

Over the years, Rita has had her fair share of memorable clients – some for heartwarming reasons, others, not so much. But each experience has shaped her, honed her skills, and etched indelible memories.

Rita’s journey from accounting to nail and lash artistry is a testament to the power of passion and the magic that unfolds when one truly loves their craft. In the glitzy world of Leia Liberato Studio, she has found her tribe, her passion, and most importantly, herself.

At this point, it’s hard for Rita to decide between her passion for nails and lashes - the complexity of building a new look in an eye, every single lash, and knowing that the way we combine them creates a unique style, mesmerizes her. It’s almost like giving a woman back the magic behind the curtains. We will wait to see if she ends up choosing between them, or if she will keep allowing us to enjoy both.