In Tralee’s Brush N Blush salon, Transform by Mon is a beauty oasis founded by Monika Banach. She’s known for her professional, individual approach to permanent make-up, aesthetics and laser treatments. Honestly, Transform by Mon gives clients more than a service. It’s a personal experience, crafted with care, expertise, and a touch of humour!

Monika’s story begins in the hospitality industry, where she dedicated 16 years of her life.

“I came to Ireland 20 years ago with only basic English,” she recalls.

The turning point came during the Covid-19 pandemic, a period of introspection that led her to reevaluate her career path. “I was pregnant and I just said to myself I had to do something to fully use my abilities,” she shares. As a result, she started thinking about beauty, specifically permanent makeup, which she had always been interested in.

Monika’s background in hospitality equipped her with the skills to navigate the challenges of the beauty industry, particularly the importance of professionalism and customer service. “Every customer should be taken care of with the utmost care and a big smile on your face,” she advises.

 

 

To stay up-to-date with the latest styles and techniques, she emphasises the importance of continually learning and upskilling. “There is no such thing as knowing it all or mastering something 100%,” she states, underlining the ongoing nature of professional development in the beauty industry.

In promoting Transform by Mon, Monika relies on honesty and authenticity. She believes in being herself, a strategy that has attracted clients who appreciate her genuine approach. Social media plays a crucial role in her marketing, serving as the “first door customers open” on their journey with her business.

Looking ahead, Monika’s goal is to excel in her field, confident that success in other areas will naturally follow. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is straightforward yet powerful: “Work hard. If you’re willing to work hard, you’ll succeed in anything.” She views competition as a motivator rather than a hurdle, striving to be her own biggest competitor.

Guess what her career highlight is? “Being nominated for the Hi Style Awards was the best moment. It changed my point of view completely. It was such a confidence boost and something that really put me on a map“, she reflects.

Monika Banach’s journey from a kitchen assistant to a celebrated beauty entrepreneur is a story of transformation, driven by an unyielding work ethic and a passion for beauty.