Owner, Director & Instructor

I'm Erica, founder of award-winning medspa Dream Medspa and Elite Aesthetics Academy. Author of The Permanent Makeup Bible. Trainer at Elite Aesthetics Academy and a single mom to 1 amazing boy! I obtained a bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences from Colorado State University. I began work as a lab scientist at university that provides me with the skill set to be exact, precise, and understand skin from a histological standpoint. Being able to express myself artistically with an aesthetic eye for design and a precise demeanor has made permanent makeup and esthetics my dream job.

I have trained with leaders around the world to craft my esthetic treatments and provide unparalleled results.

Instructor

My name is Larissa Uclés, but my friends and family call me Lari. I was born in Honduras, and I currently live in Colorado, USA. Since a young age my interest for beauty just kept growing, until as an adult I decided to make it my career. I am a licensed esthetician passionate in the aesthetics industry owner of my own business. I am also a lash technician, certified lash instructor, permanent makeup artist, aesthetics instructor and I have a Master’s in Business Administration.

Throughout my career I have learned a lot from my multiple trainings, certifications and work experiences. My favorite areas are skincare and eyelashes, which is why I have created my own aesthetics courses to share my knowledge, experiences, recommendations concerning the competitive industry and to inspire women. My advice to all is that everything you do, do it with love, passion, and dedication; all of which opens doors! My philosophy of life is that we all have the power in our hands to transform our lives, and I believe in empowering women. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and passion with potential future aestheticians.

Instructor

Cydney Staples is a licensed esthetician and beauty educator with a specialty in commercial and editorial makeup artistry. With over a decade of unique experience in the industry, Cydney is dedicated to providing quality and comprehensive education for new estheticians and is often looked to as a mentor within her community. Cydney is passionate about all things beauty and she prides herself on being an honest and reliable resource for her students as they embark on a new journey towards becoming their most authentic selves. In her personal work as a freelance makeup artist, Cydney specializes in clean, impactful beauty for a multicultural clientele, delivering high quality results for her commercial clients while prioritizing the comfort of the talent on set. Her impeccable attention to detail, natural warmth and energy, and her willingness to collaborate is translated in her teaching methods by creating an environment that’s both exciting and engaging and encourages critical thought and self reflection.

As a native New Orleanian, Cydney has an inherent artistic ability that is coupled with a lifelong dedication to learning and perfecting her craft. She is proud to bring her personal experiences and inspirations to Elite Aesthetics Academy to help influence and embolden the next generation of estheticians and beauty professionals.

Instructor

Shannon is a Master Injector of Botox and dermal fillers with six years of invaluable experience. Renowned for expertise in enhancing natural beauty and achieving remarkable results, Shannon is deeply passionate about education, skincare, and delivering exceptional outcomes. Hailing from the scenic landscapes of Boulder, CO, and a proud parent of two, Shannon understands the importance of healthy skin and advocates for the essential role of sunscreen in every skincare routine. Welcome to our med spa, where excellence meets personalized care under Shannon's expert guidance.

Admissions/Operations & Instructor

Amber has been a manager in the beauty industry for over 23 years. Ranging in everything from waxing, massage, hair and everything in between. She was a professional makeup artist for 15 years, specializing in bridal makeup and editorial briefs so her love for skincare is second to none. She attended Fort Lewis College in her hometown of Durango CO, where she gained a degree in Sociology and a minor in Gender and Sexuality. When she isn’t at the clinic making sure everything is running smoothly, she’s out camping with her fiancé Danny and dog Baine Marino!