Today we’d like to introduce you to Dionna Mahoney.
Hi Dionna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Dionna Mahoney, and I was born and raised in Encinitas, California. When my husband and I had our first child at 22, everything changed. He was in school working toward his bachelor’s degree, so we decided it made the most sense for him to stay focused on finishing school while I worked full-time to support our growing family.
I worked six days a week, splitting my time between The Roxy Restaurant in Encinitas and the Roxy food stands at the fairgrounds. I said yes to every opportunity—fair season, race season, the home and garden shows. If there was an event, I was working it. Three years later, we welcomed our second child. I continued working nights at The Roxy, and during the day, I became a nanny. It was the best of both worlds. I could earn an income and still be present for our kids during those important early years.
When our daughter turned two, I was gifted my first facial. I did not know what to expect, but by the end of the service, I felt relaxed, refreshed, and glowing. I could not stop smiling. I went home and told my husband, “I know what I want to do for the rest of my life.” A month later, I enrolled at the Palomar Institute of Cosmetology.
After passing my state board exam, I landed my first job as a lash artist. It was a true test of patience. The technique took time to learn, but after 80 hours of training, I finally had my first paying client. I was so nervous. I kept thinking about my husband and kids, waiting to hear how it went. When I handed my client the mirror, she looked at herself and said, “Wow. They are absolutely perfect. I feel beautiful.” That moment confirmed everything. I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.
About a year in, I realized how much I missed facials and waxing. I wanted to offer all three services, so I took a leap and started my own business. Coming up with a name was harder than expected. My husband and I tossed around ideas for weeks, but nothing felt quite right. What I did know was that I wanted “Encinitas” in the name, because this city is home. My husband and I both grew up in Village Park, went to school here, ran through the same canyons, and spent every summer at the beach. I also knew I wanted an anchor in the logo to honor my dad, a fisherman who passed away when I was 23. That is when it all clicked: Encinitas Beauty Bar.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
School was never easy for me. I have lived with dyslexia and ADHD for as long as I can remember, and back then, there were not many resources or support systems. I knew I would have to work twice as hard, but I was lucky to find a group of like-minded classmates who supported each other. One of the most influential people I met was Ali Acosta. After graduation, we went our separate ways for a while, but eventually reunited and now work side by side. Ali is an incredibly talented acne specialist and continues to make a name for herself in the industry.
Soon after, I found a part-time rental suite that allowed me to build my business while still being present at home. Then COVID hit, and everything came to a stop. Estheticians and cosmetologists were among the last to reopen, and even then, things were slow. Understandably, people were still hesitant about close-contact services.
That is when Ali reached out me. She asked if I wanted to share a space, and I did not hesitate. We shared room for two years before she found an office space we could customize and make our own. I told her I would help however I could, and together we brought it to life. When we opened our doors in August 2023, it felt like a brand-new beginning.
We’ve been impressed with Encinitas Beauty Bar , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Encinitas Beauty Bar is a boutique beauty studio located just off El Camino Real, inside North County Skin Solutions. I specialize in custom lash extensions, lash lifts (which curl and enhance your natural lashes), brow lamination (a treatment that smooths and lifts brow hairs for a fuller, more defined look), full-body waxing, facials, and more. My services are tailored to women, men, and teens—with a few waxing limitations for male guests.
What sets Encinitas Beauty Bar apart is the care and intention behind every service. This is not just a job for me, it is a true passion. Every morning, as I drive up that steep hill to the studio, I think to myself: I love what I do. I am proud of the peaceful, welcoming space I have created, and of the strong relationships I have built with my clients. I genuinely love helping people feel confident and cared for.
I am also proud to be a business owner who can balance work with family life. Being a mom will always be my most important role, and I am incredibly grateful to have a career that allows me to show up fully both at home and in the studio.
At Encinitas Beauty Bar, it is more than just beauty services, it is about connection, confidence, and creating a space where people feel seen and supported.
Pricing:
- Eyelash Extension Full Set- $180-230
- Lash Lift with Tint- $150
- Brow Lamination with Tint- $130
- Waxing- $12-$185
- Facials- $100-$260
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.EncinitasBeautyBar.com
- Instagram: @EncinitasBeautyBar
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/encinitas-beauty-bar-encinitas?osq=Encinitas+Beauty+Bar
- Other: https://encinitas-beauty-bar.square.site/
