Lessons from Local Leaders:

Heidi Gracie Shea

From Tomboy to Trusted Beauty Expert: How Heidi Gracie Shea Built Voila Style

In the heart of Leesburg, Virginia, you’ll find Heidi Gracie Shea, a professional hair and makeup artist whose journey into the beauty industry is anything but traditional. Serving clients across the DMV area, Heidi’s expertise spans bridal, commercial work, photoshoots, special events, and more. But her career began in a place she never expected.

An Unexpected Start

Growing up the youngest of three brothers and an Army brat living in Arizona and Germany, Heidi was a self-proclaimed tomboy who dreamed of following in her father’s military footsteps. Makeup and hair were never on her radar—until a family friend offered her a job as a shampoo assistant at a Fairfax salon.

What began as an odd job quickly became a calling. Within months, salon owners saw her natural rapport with clients and encouraged her to join their apprenticeship program. Over 25 years later, Heidi has built a career blending technical artistry with a personal touch.

Creating Voila Style

After becoming a stay-at-home mom to her second son, Heidi craved connection in a new community where she had no friends or family. Playdates led to conversations, and when other moms discovered she was a hair and makeup artist, they began asking for her services.

Voila Style was born—initially offering in-home cuts and colors for busy moms who rarely had time for self-care. Over time, Heidi evolved her business to focus on luxury beauty experiences for special events like weddings, corporate shoots, and milestone celebrations.

A Luxury Experience Beyond the Brush

For Heidi, luxury isn’t just about premium products—it’s about setting the tone for her clients’ most important moments. As one of the first vendors brides see on their wedding day, Heidi knows her presence can set the mood for the entire event. She brings calm energy, attention to detail, and an authentic desire to connect with each person in her chair.

More Than Makeup

Whether working with a bride, a boudoir client rediscovering her confidence, or a grandmother posing for timeless portraits, Heidi sees beauty as something that starts from within. She believes her role is to enhance a client’s natural features while helping them feel seen, heard, and valued.

Staying Inspired

After 25 years, Heidi’s passion is fueled by the people she meets. Each client has a unique story, and her work allows her to be part of their most memorable life moments. She also values collaboration—sharing techniques and ideas with other artists to keep her skills fresh in a fast-evolving industry.

Community Roots

As a proud Leesburg local, Heidi is inspired by the area’s diversity, creativity, and community spirit. Most of her clients come through word-of-mouth referrals, a testament to the trust and connection she builds with everyone she serves.

Her Advice for Big Events

Her best wisdom for anyone preparing for a major milestone?
“This too shall pass. Don’t get lost in the tiny details. Focus on the love, the connection, and the reason you’re celebrating.”

From a tomboy with no interest in beauty to a trusted stylist known for her warmth and artistry, Heidi Gracie Shea’s story is proof that sometimes your career chooses you—and that the right blend of skill and heart can leave a lasting impact.

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