Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Virgen
Hi Crystal, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Once confined to convention in early adulthood, a visionary black sheep broke free from a mental cocoon to bridge the gap between creatives and business professionals. Driven by a passion for fashion, a love for clean products, and an enthusiasm for all things wellness, this individual is inspired by intentional brands and people who aspire to make the world a more joyful and beautiful place.
Growing up in a conventional family, I was forced to read for two hours nightly, so I played the game. Much to my parents’ chagrin, I chose books by Bobbi Brown and Kevin Aucoin. They rolled their eyes at my newfound knowledge of contouring. Imagine me telling Siri to play Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.”
Yes, I was the creative rebel wanting to break free from their idea of what I needed to become. In the pre-YouTube tutorial era, MAC girls were the “it girls.” I envisioned myself as the girl in all black at the mall, beautifying people and making them feel good while listening to great music.
Too young to wear makeup, I saved my lunch money and practiced on anyone willing. Surprisingly, I started my own little business at 13, doing makeup for quinceañeras, high school dances, and even weddings! Thankfully, everyone loved it, or at least made me believe they did.
Fast-forward to college. I had many interests, making it difficult to find a tribe or focus on one study area. This led me to graduate with eight associate degrees, a BS in Business Management, and numerous certifications in Beauty, Marketing, and Data Analytics.
With 12 years of experience in the beauty industry—as a makeup artist in my early teens and twenties and a hairstylist from my twenties to early thirties—I thought I had it all figured out but still desired more, daydreaming of creating innovative and whimsical campaigns for purpose-driven brands in beauty, fashion, and wellness.
That’s the funny thing about life: I had planned to step away from hairdressing in the next year or so, but to my surprise, life served me a slice of humble pie sooner than anticipated. Just when I thought I had it all figured out and was “thriving,” like many during an unfortunate time, I lost everything: my place, job, relationships—you name it, it probably happened.
Instead of playing the victim, I took it as a sign. So, I focused on what I could make of the situation. I knew it was time to pivot, so I moved back to LA from San Francisco and refused to let the world and its challenges corrupt me. Through continuous healing, I conquered adversities, emerging victorious and becoming the hero of an imperfect story. Leaning into empathy and “being a good human” are my gold standards. I seek to collaborate with people who share the same values, radiate the same frequency, and create magic.
Drowning out advice from those I did not aspire to live like (the play-it-safe, don’t-do-what-you-love, scarcity mindset folks), I trusted myself and listened to my inner voice. Like magic, the people and visions started to appear.
Side Note: To youth, young adults, or anyone stuck in a situation they don’t love, it is possible to work and do what you love.
*Enter Alan Watts. His video on After School discusses choosing a career path based on your interests, strengths, and passions. Master your craft, and the money will follow.
Considering my extensive experience in hair and makeup artistry, I entered an exploratory phase in cosmetic consulting, sales, marketing, and branding.
I knew I didn’t have much time, so I did what was necessary. However, I got out as soon as I knew it wasn’t the right fit and devoted myself to an entrepreneurial path. I saw the need to help fellow creatives and the ability to fuse both worlds, speaking in a manner that resonated with both—providing value by handling the less favorable aspects of business and allowing artists to focus on their craft.
With a growing desire to bridge the gap between fantasy and reality by making things beautiful and romanticizing every story told, my team and I help brands and creatives do the same through innovative campaigns, social workshops, and intentional events. Of course, my bread and butter is social media marketing.
In my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve faced numerous challenges, from financial struggles to self-doubt, but I’ve also experienced incredible growth and success. I have learned to enjoy the ride and accept that most of our paths are not linear.
So, what keeps me going? The little voice inside of me screaming,
“What legacy will you leave? What will people say when you are gone?”
Lastly, I will leave you with this:
Follow your intuition and do the work—yes, spiritually. Whether that’s through workouts, therapy, your shaman, or conversations, whatever that means for you. That could be the barrier blocking you from achieving your goals. So stop your limiting beliefs and think big!
My EQ has gotten me further than my IQ. Keep your frequency high and act from the heart. Push yourself out of your comfort zone. Stay on top of self-education and consider learning a trade first; it can help you build capital and provide a strong foundation for your future endeavors. Learn financial literacy and invest early. Stop being a people pleaser. Listen to those living the life you aspire to have. Paying attention to how people treat others reveals a lot about their character. Mistakes are okay; failure is not absolute. Keep going and find another way or someone who knows how. Build the right team. Most importantly, stop self-doubt and do what scares you because if you don’t, someone else will.
Opportunity meets preparation, so stay ready. Don’t be afraid to be seen. Do it or don’t do it at all. Be intentional in all areas of your life and see what happens.
If you enjoyed this and feel we could create something magical, I’d love to help you tell your brand’s story or help align you with your favorite brands.
Sending love and light.
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?
Despite tumultuous times in my twenties (I could write a book; life got heavy), I somehow persevered. However, without them, I wouldn’t have had the most powerful tool as an entrepreneur—perseverance. This was key when I couldn’t see how things would work out, but my intuition was screaming. My faith has always remained strong. I am grateful for it all because every lesson has served me on my journey.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Having mastered the art of hair coloring over 12 years, my passion for the craft remains undiminished. Although I’ve transitioned to treating it more as a creative hobby, I still indulge in it occasionally. Two years ago, my journey took an unexpected turn when a TikTok video went viral, earning me the moniker “Empathetic Hair Stylist.” Since then, I’ve been cultivating an online community for fellow wellness and fashion enthusiasts and beauty fans like myself, guiding them to discover the finest products and more. With health always being at the core and realizing how many toxins we are exposed to daily, I am finding a strong pull towards non-toxic or “less toxic” beauty alternatives.
Over the past three years, I’ve expanded my marketing business, assisting fashion, beauty, wellness, and environmental brands with their marketing strategies. Yet, my true joy lies in my creative endeavors, collaborating with artists and directing campaigns, workshops, and events. Here, I relish showcasing my talents and weaving narratives that resonate deeply.
I have some exciting things lined up this year and would love for you to join! Sign up for our newsletter, and stay informed about our upcoming intentional events in OC and LA, where you will meet amazing people and hear exceptional stories!
Sign up below:
Marketing: socialmagagency.com / Email: [email protected]
Personal: likeavirgen.com / Email: [email protected]
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Having helicopter parents, I wasn’t allowed to pursue theater. So it makes sense that my fondest memories were performing with my backup dancers (aka my cousins) in front of all my family members, repeatedly watching the movies Selena and Grease, and attending the most iconic concert. Thank you, Britney.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://likeavirgen.com
- Instagram: likeavirgen_
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LikeAVirgen
Image Credits
Photographer – Phillip Matthew
website: phillipjojola.com
Ig: @phillipmatthew_
