Yana Beauty Studio

Beautiful faces are her calling card. Perhaps that explains why Yana Sklyar, founder of Yana Beauty Studio, is in such demand. Maria Shriver, Kelsey Grammer, L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and Hispanic stars Aylin Mujica and Susana Dosamantes are just a few of the celebrities whose visages she's brightened. A licensed esthetician who has done makeup for television, print, and film, Yana has been in love with the business of beauty since she was a teen. “I always knew I wanted to be in the beauty world,” says the soft-spoken Ukranian native who holds a degree in communications. “I received a makeup book for my 16th birthday and I copied every look in it.”

Yana Beauty Studio provides the full range of professional hair and makeup services, including brow shaping, and customized cry-proof, hug-proof, kiss-proof airbrush makeup, which Yana loves to apply because of the flawless results. And she delivers her services wherever you happen to be: on location, in your hotel, or at home.

According to the industry experts who work with Yana, even poor complexions look lovely when she is finished. But the beauty that she's uniquely adept at enhancing comes from within. “It's all about empowerment,” she says. “What's important to me is to make clients not only stunning but completely comfortable looking that way.” She loves to see her clients look at themselves in the mirror and feel a sense of strength and confidence.

To achieve this end, she begins with a questionnaire so that she can gain an understanding of their tastes and preferences. She also offers a trial session, which is helpful in experimenting with looks and products and in putting her clients at ease. By the time the big day arrives, everyone is relaxed and ready to look their best. A patient and gentle teacher, she also enjoys sharing her knowledge with clients and even offers lessons so that the attractive effect of her services can outlast the event. “I want to offer my clients real beauty for the rest of their lives,” she exclaims.

One nervous bride who had the pleasure of working with Yana says, “She's a catch if you can book her. Yana has a passion for her craft and it shows in the end product. I wear makeup at a minimum, so I had no idea what to look for. Through Yana I learned some tricks I can use on my own.”

These days her long list of clients includes KCAL, CBS, NBC and Telemundo networks, Verizon, Playboy, Blue Cross and hundreds of brides and their entourages. She's a favorite for anyone about to step into the limelight. “Yana does great work. When clients leave her they glow,” says a videographer who has seen her work makeup magic. “Celebrity or not, she makes everyone comfortable,” offers a producer who recommends her highly. “It's rare to find that level of talent and service.”

“Yana is a natural artist,” declares a satisfied bride. “I wanted to look my most beautiful on my wedding day. Yana accomplished this.” Another of her brides recollects, “She made me feel relaxed and confident. Everyone agrees it's important to have a beautiful reception, flowers, invitation, gown—but in my opinion, all the glamour that surrounds you is worthless if you don't feel confident and beautiful. In my mind, you can't find anyone better than Yana.”