Morena Beauty Studio, a new player in the industry with a reputation for celebrating Filipina heritage and beauty, has welcomed popular vlogger and entrepreneur Viy Cortez-Velazquez as its newest endorser. The partnership was officially sealed in Muntinlupa recently, marking a significant milestone for the beauty studio as it expands its brand visibility and reach.
The studio offers a unique experience rooted in Filipina pride. It’s about beauty treatment, but it’s also a celebration of culture and identity.
Founded by Aira Rivera in November 2023, Morena Beauty Studio aims to create a sanctuary where Filipinas can embrace and celebrate their natural beauty. Rivera, who faced bullying for her morena skin growing up, transformed her struggles into a mission to empower other Filipinas.
“We didn’t want to just put up a beauty studio. I knew we needed to have a vision,” Rivera said. “I’m proud to say I’m a Filipina, and I am Morena. I want others to feel beautiful as well, regardless of skin color.”
The studio offers services tailored to complement morena skin tones and features. Nail colors that enhance darker skin and lash extensions designed specifically for Filipina eyes are among the services that set Morena Beauty Studio apart in the beauty industry.
This unique focus has garnered a loyal following in its first location in Betterliving in Bicutan, Paranaque, celebrating the beauty of morena skin and Filipina features. Rivera said they are expecting to have at least three locations by the end of the year.
A perfect fit
Cortez-Velasquez, a beloved vlogger known for her relatable and humorous content, is the new face of Morena Beauty Studio. She expressed her admiration for the salon’s unique concept and commitment to promoting self-care and confidence.
“Siguro ang ma-a-advice ko lang din, ‘wag kayong ma-pressure na magmukhang maganda palagi,” Cortez-Velasquez said. “Pero kung gusto niyo minsan na alagaan ang sarili… pumunta kayo sa Morena Beauty Studio.”
Rivera praised Cortez-Velasquez for her wit, charm, and resilience against online critics, qualities that align perfectly with the brand’s ethos. Their partnership promises to inspire many Filipinas to embrace their natural beauty and practice self-care.
Rivera’s journey from being bullied for her skin color to owning a successful beauty studio is an inspiring story of personal empowerment. Her experiences reflect a larger narrative of Filipinas traveling the path of self-acceptance and pride in their heritage.
As more women discover Morena Beauty Studio, the aim is to allow them to love themselves more and feel empowered to make things happen.
Franchising Opportunities
With Cortez-Velasquez on board, Morena Beauty Studio is set to expand nationwide through franchising. Rivera announced an enticing franchise package for P900,000, which includes staff training and initial supplies, making it an accessible opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs across the country.
This opportunity allows individuals from across the country to bring Morena Beauty Studio’s empowering message to their local communities.
Cortez-Velasquez, who is fond of having her nails done at Morena Beauty Studio, is excited about the expansion. She is set to open her franchise with her sisters-in-law and fellow vloggers, Vien Iligan-Velasquez, Pat Velasquez-Gaspar, and Venice Velasquez.
The move broadens Morena Beauty Studio’s reach, as well as solidifies its mission of celebrating Filipina beauty on a larger scale.
