AN AWARD-WINNING MIXOLOGIST. ONE OF TOP LOCAL SINGING TALENTS. A WELL-RESPECTED RESTAURATEUR. THESE 10 VALLEY VIPS ARE AT THE TOP OF THEIR RESPECTIVE PROFESSIONAL TURFS (AND SOME ARE LOOKING TO OVERTAKE OTHER FIELDS, AS WELL). SO, HOW DID THEY GET TO WHERE THEY ARE TODAY?
STORY BY MELISSA LARSEN
PHOTOS BY JASON BLACK
“Since graduating high school, I've been in the beauty industry. First, as a model, then as the owner of a modeling agency and now as a makeup artist and photographer. It’s interesting how people can see a photo in a magazine and think ‘I want to look like that.’ What I love about what I do is that I get to help people see their own beauty and feel confident, comfortable and sexy in their own skin. The beauty industry can be shallow and harsh—I like to think I’ve brought a little depth and compassion. There is nothing more satisfying than helping someone see the beauty and uniqueness they posses. I'm living my dream, and it feels amazing.”
—MICHAEL FRANCO, MAKEUP ARTIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER
TWITTER @_MICHAELFRANCO_
INSTAGRAM: @_MICHAELFRANCO_