The Skin & Body Network
Meet Our Educators
Melissa Bivelacque Mercado, LE
Melissa is a 2003 graduate of Gal-Mar Academy of Cosmetology. She has worked as a licensed esthetician, salon and spa manager, day spa owner, esthetics educator as well as a leader and mentor to many. Melissa is the Lead Educator at Hale & Hush in addition to being a continued education business owner, spa business owner and licensed esthetician who is passionate about educating and supporting fellow estheticians and volunteering in her community.
She is a 2018 & 2019 Award-Winning Esthetician and international finalist at THE SKIN GAMES. Her specialties include body waxing and clinical skincare treatments.
Lauren Simpson
Lauren is a 2010 graduate of Brio Academy of Cosmetology School. She has worked as a professional makeup artist, lash technician, eyebrow specialist, and makeup educator. She is a 3 time winner of The Knot Best Of Weddings and Wedding Wire Couples Choice Awards. Her specialities include bridal makeup and natural makeup.
Vanessa Pergolizzi
Vanessa’s journey in the beauty industry began nearly two decades ago when she worked for Clinique
throughout her college career. Over the years, Vanessa’s personal contacts sought her out for bridal and
special event makeup makeup knowing that she would provide honest advice, skillfully applied makeup
with a flawless complexion and a fun experience. In 2012, Vanessa took her makeup career to the next
level and started her own makeup artistry business called VP Artistry. She is also certified in Lash Lifting
and her favorite part is seeing the look on her clients’ faces when they get the big reveal of their beautifully