Meet Our Teachers

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.
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

Juanita Burgess

Juanita has over 10 years of experience encompassing marketing, graphic design, customer
relations and merchandising. With her vast knowledge in customer engagement, she has
developed a skillful and creative approach to business concepts. In addition, Juanita utilizes her
years of experience as an Aesthetic Educator to create effective and comprehensive content for
beauty professionals. Juanita is a licensed esthetician, makeup artist and nail technician. She also
has a skincare line that is in the development phase.

Harpreet Kaur

Harpeet is a licensed esthetician with over 20 years of experience. Harpeet will be sharing her vast knowledge of Threading.

Valentina Knap

Since 1995 Valentina Knap has been providing advanced skin care services and education through integrating classical European and Ayurvedic principles.

Miss V. as she is known in the skin care community remains committed to breaking new ground, while respecting and acknowledging history in todays ever evolving skin care world.

Michala DePamphilis

Since joining The Skin & Body Network, Michala has consistently brought a passion and dedication with her each class she teaches. A graduate of Elizabeth Grady School of Esthetics and Massage, she has paved her way in the beauty industry with her strength in lash extensions, and all things BROWS!

Faculty: Faculty