Meet Marilynn Maldonado  

Meet Marilynn Maldonado, the owner of Marilynnbeautyyy (@marilynnbeautyyy) in Long Beach, California. Marilynn is a driven and relatable esthetician with over four years of experience in the beauty industry. She's a multi-service esthetician who truly fell in love with waxing, especially Brazilian services. Known for prioritizing client comfort and her bubbly personality, she is a trusted professional who keeps her clients looking and feeling their best. Marilynn looks forward to creating space for other estheticians to connect, grow, and feel supported within the community.

What inspired you to become an esthetician?

My love for the beauty industry began in 2012. After graduating high school, where I wasn’t allowed to wear makeup, I fully immersed myself in the world of cosmetics and started my career at Sephora. During my time there, I discovered a true passion for skincare, which inspired me to pursue esthetician school. While in school, I was introduced to Brazilian waxing and instantly connected with it. It quickly became my specialty, and I have been passionate about it ever since.

Why did you decide to start your own business?

I decided to start my own business because I wanted to become the first business owner in my family as a first-generation Mexican. With no entrepreneurial background in my family, I was driven to pave my own path and create something of my own. I was also motivated by the desire for greater flexibility and the freedom to build a career on my own terms.

What is your favorite service to perform and why?

My favorite service to perform is Brazilian waxing because I love creating a comfortable and supportive experience for my clients. It’s really important to me that they feel at ease and cared for throughout the service. Hearing their positive feedback afterward, especially when they share how comfortable and confident they felt, makes the work incredibly rewarding.

Tell us about the biggest challenge you've faced while running your own business. How do you cope?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced while running my business has been learning the logistics and financial side, especially since I don’t come from a business background. As my own boss, I’ve had to wear many hats and manage every aspect of the business. I’ve taught myself along the way, which has been both challenging and rewarding. I take it day by day, embracing growth as a learning process while building confidence in myself as a business owner.

What business goals have you set for yourself this year, and how do you plan to achieve them?

One of the goals I’ve set for myself this year is to continue growing and establishing my business name in Long Beach, where I’m from. I plan to do that by showing up every day, staying consistent, attending community events, and putting myself out there. Building genuine connections and strengthening my presence in my community are key focuses for me as I continue to grow.

What is one business tool you can't live without?

One business tool I cannot live without is my agenda. It keeps me organized, on track, and allows me to manage all the moving parts of my business. From scheduling clients and planning my days to setting goals and staying accountable, my agenda helps me stay consistent and intentional with my time.

How and when did you discover Bushbalm? Why did you choose to carry us?

I discovered Bushbalm early in my esthetics journey while searching for effective, results-driven solutions for ingrowns and post-wax care. I chose to carry Bushbalm because the products deliver real, visible results, align with my values, and allow me to confidently educate my clients while supporting their skin long after their appointment. It’s a brand I trust in the treatment room and genuinely feel good recommending.

Which Bushbalm product is most popular at your salon? Why do you think that is?

One product I can never keep on my shelves is the Ingrown Oil, I’m constantly restocking it for my backbar. I always recommend pairing it with the scrub and Roller Rescue, it’s definitely a fast seller. My clients swear by it, and the results are truly incredible. I also personally love the Vajazzles, they’re such a cute and innovative touch. All of my clients love that extra detail after a fresh wax, it gives such a fun early 2000s vibe.

What do you enjoy most about the Bushbalm Pro community?

What I love most is the strong sense of community that Bushbalm has built, along with the support you consistently show for estheticians. As someone who enjoys creating events and bringing waxers together, that support means a lot. I truly feel like I have Bushbalm behind me when it comes to building my own space and community.

What advice would you give to new estheticians entering the field?