As a young child growing up in Barranquilla, Colombia, Ann Casarella was immersed in the world of skincare and beauty.
Her early exposure to the industry came from the women in her family, most notably, her aunt, who owned a beauty salon in their hometown. Though it felt like a familiar part of everyday life at the time, this environment would eventually spark the inspiration for her future career. Growing up in a culture that places a high value on personal presentation and beauty quietly sowed the seeds of her ambition.
Yet, like many children of immigrants, Ann faced the weight of expectations. Her mother envisioned a more traditional career path for her, but Ann felt drawn to something different. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering determination—a journey that would ultimately lead her to transform not just her own life but the lives of aspiring beauty professionals.
How the Journey Began
Ann’s path into the beauty industry was anything but straightforward. At just 19 years old, she faced the same expectations many children of immigrants do—the pressure to pursue a traditional career in honor of her parents’ sacrifices. She enrolled in college while working tirelessly to pay for tuition. However, a temporary job as a receptionist at a luxury spa unexpectedly changed her life.
The spa environment felt like home—it ignited a passion she couldn’t ignore. Trusting her instincts, Ann remained steadfast in her new calling. Her work ethic and natural talent quickly became evident. Ann’s dedication and perseverance did not go unnoticed. With her mother’s eventual approval, she transitioned from receptionist to esthetician at The Red Door Salon & Spa, steadily growing her expertise and building a loyal clientele, many of whom she still keeps in touch with today.
Her determination, combined with her hard work, set the stage for her next step. When an opportunity for a promotion arose, she hesitated to apply for a national director position, doubting whether she was truly ready for a leadership role. Even with her skills and experience, self-doubt crept in—she convinced herself she didn’t check all the boxes and almost let the opportunity pass.
As fate would have it, her tenacity led her to the role. The turning point came when she attended an industry event and met key decision-makers in her company, including the person who would eventually become her boss. Recognizing Ann’s drive, she insisted that Ann apply for the director position. After undergoing a rigorous selection process, Ann was offered the leadership role. Though she struggled with imposter syndrome, she embraced the challenge, diving into business operations, financial planning, and management. With the guidance of her mentor, she gained confidence, proving that success is built not just on skill but on perseverance and self-belief.
From a Dream to Building a Future for Aspiring Professionals
In 2021, Ann had the opportunity to reset. Like many businesses, the beauty industry faced closures during COVID-19, giving her time to reflect on her future. She asked herself: What’s next? The answer came in the form of Glow and Grow Esthetics Academy—her vision for a school that would not only teach aesthetics but also provide students with the tools to build thriving careers.
Determined to make her dream a reality, she conducted extensive research—just as she had always done when making major life decisions. Ann strongly believes that a career in esthetics opens many doors—not only in skincare and beauty services but also in management and business ownership.
Now, as she walks through the halls of Glow and Grow Esthetics Academy, she reflects on every detail she meticulously curated—from classroom layouts and product selections to lockers, practice rooms, and student amenities. More than just a learning institution, she envisions it as a space where aspiring estheticians feel comfortable and supported while gaining the skills, confidence, and business knowledge they need to succeed.
The academy’s curriculum extends far beyond technical training. It includes hands-on experience, business development training, resume-building workshops, and job placement assistance. Students can choose between full-time and part-time programs, making it easier to balance education with their personal lives.
Looking ahead, Ann plans to expand her offerings by providing courses in Spanish and Portuguese, making quality esthetics education even more accessible. She invites anyone passionate about skincare and beauty to visit the school and take a tour, emphasizing the importance of finding a learning environment that feels like the right fit.
The doors of Glow and Grow are now open
Ann Casarella is excited to welcome the next generation of beauty professionals. Just as she found personal growth and success in the world of esthetics, she now invites others to discover their own paths in this dynamic industry. At Latinos of CT, we proudly celebrate the achievements of Latinos across Connecticut and extend our warmest wishes for continued success to Ann and her team.
To learn more or to schedule a tour, visit www.ggestheticsacademy.com.