When TNE editor-in-chief, Nicole Stewart, told us to "get deep" in our interview with Ana Vergara, we delivered. We joked about whether or not she wanted us to shed some tears for extra drama but little did we know that would not be a joke for long. Now, if you don't know who Ana Vergara is, it won't take much for you to be inspired by her strength and tenacity. She is a wonderful, highly motivated entrepreneur, go-getter, TV and radio host, and the owner of Classic Glamour Dolls.
Ana has been doing hair and makeup since she was 16 years old, doing business out of it at only 17 years old. Influenced by her younger sister who had a love for the rockabilly scene, Ana started to specialize in retro glamour. Growing up in a Latin household with a big family gave her a good starting point to practice her craft. Before she knew it she was so busy she had to get a team together to help keep up with her appointments; thus came the creation of Classic Glamour Dolls. Since then, she and her team have been highly requested for bridal and red carpet events.
Regardless of the demand, she remains humble and loving to everyone. My first experience meeting Ana really displayed her loving energy and down-to-earth personality. 23 years later, Ana has accomplished so much more than just making people look pretty. Her team of hair and make-up artists have partnered with charities like Pin-Ups For Vets and Glamour Project. Ana uses her skills as a form of empowering women, improving their self-esteem by making them feel beautiful from the outside in. It's no wonder she won an award as Latina of Influence for Hispanic Lifestyle TV Show.
But the journey wasn't all sunshine and rainbows, and Ana had to face some major challenges along the way. At the height of her success, Ana encountered her darkest time. About four years ago, her boyfriend was involved in a fatal car accident, and her life came to a halt. She faced the most difficult challenge anyone could ever imagine, the loss of a loved one. Ana was very real with me, admitting that she became very depressed and even contemplated suicide. She shares her story at her most vulnerable to let people know that she understands their pain and that, with the right support system, they can persevere. Little did I know, I was part of that support system. While my words were few, the impact was great. When she reminded me of that event, I could not contain my tears.
I didn't expect our conversation to go in that direction, but the feelings were all too real. At that moment, I realized how our actions could make an impact on people even when we may not be aware of it. The influence Ana has to make an impact in the lives of others is just as strong as she uses her gifts to give people a sense of hope and strength. Something that may seem so insignificant to others like saying "I'm sorry" or giving someone a makeover can make all the difference to one person.
While the journey has not been easy, Ana continues to keep a very positive perspective on life. Her ability to persevere through difficult times has granted her much success to the point of accomplishing yet another dream. Although she had people telling her she couldn't do it, Ana and her sister are now coming out with their own cosmetic line called GlamaQueens. Her line will be soft launching in March, so follow her on Instagram to find out all the details!
Instagram: @cgd_bosslady @glamaqueens