Community Highlights: Meet Patricia Gratao of Patricia Beauty

Today we’d like to introduce you to Patricia Gratao.

Hi Patricia, I’m so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed with your story and how you got to where you are today.
My name is Patricia Gratao. I am 38 years old. I am a wife and mother of two beautiful kids. My career began in Brazil about 15 years ago when I graduated from the University Catholic of Goias with a degree in physiotherapy. 

And Master in aesthetics at the University Catholic of Goias. I’ve always been passionate about my work. I find great fulfillment and joy in restoring self-esteem in my clients. I worked with Body Contouring Treatments & Skin Care in Brazil for 9 years until I met my husband, who had been living in Atlanta for 16 years. We fell in love, navigated a long-distance relationship, got engaged, and eventually got married. 

In May 2016, I left my esthetics clinic in Brazil and moved to the U.S. with one dream – to start a family. It was a fresh start on all fronts as I did not speak English, I did not know anyone, I was not familiar with the culture, and my degree was not recognized in the U.S. I feel that wherever my hands are, I can start anew. I faced numerous challenges, starting with studying for my esthetician license without knowing the language. I studied hard and passed the exams with great effort. My first client in the U.S. was a fellow Brazilian, and through word of mouth, my clientele grew. 

Working tirelessly, from Sunday to Sunday, I provided services at clients’ homes, in my own home, and at my friend Denise’s house, who supported me immensely. Then came COVID-19; I lost many clients, but I persisted, never turning down work. In 2021, Raquel Souza gave me the opportunity to rent a space within her established Sweet Peach Wax in Sandy Springs. There, my business flourished. Starting with only one machine, I now perform over 20 procedures. I began with one room, then rented another and hired an esthetician. 

Eventually, I expanded further, and in September 2023, I initiated my project to have my own space. My husband, Gilberto, my friend, Raqueline, and I dedicated Sundays to work on every detail, even involving my 2-year-old daughter. Patricia Beauty officially opened on December 2, 2023. It was a success beyond my wildest dreams. 

I could not have imagined coming to America and achieving what I have without the opportunities, support from God, and my husband by my side. I’m confident more Patricia Beauty units will come, fueled by my love for the work and unwavering dedication. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I faced numerous challenges, starting with studying for my esthetician license without knowing the language. I studied hard and passed the exams with great effort. 

It was a fresh start on all fronts as I did not speak English, I did not know anyone, I was not familiar with the culture, and my degree was not recognized in the U.S. 

What was your favorite childhood memory?
The chocolate cake was made by my mom! 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/patriciabeautyatlanta
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/patriciabeautyatlanta

Image Credits
Nicholas Cunningham