On this episode of Penny for Your Shots, I had the joy of chatting with Michelle Bouse, a licensed esthetician, professional makeup artist, and an embodiment of positivity and resilience. From the glitz of Hollywood to her new life in Southwest Florida, Michelle’s journey is one of bold choices, creativity, and embracing life’s many chapters with gratitude and joy.

A Journey Through Dance, Beauty, and Reinvention

Michelle’s story begins in New Jersey, where her love for dance shaped her early years. A professional tap and jazz dancer, she made a living performing up and down the East Coast, even auditioning at Radio City Music Hall. When a significant injury marked the end of her dancing career, Michelle pivoted to new creative outlets.

"I never wanted to look back and say, 'What if?' That’s been my guiding principle," Michelle shared.

After moving to Los Angeles for love, she discovered makeup artistry, a career she thrived in for over 20 years, working with Hollywood stars like Jennifer Garner and John Schneider. Later, she added skincare expertise to her repertoire, owning a successful esthetics business in LA for 15 years.

Choosing Joy and Gratitude

Throughout her journey, Michelle has consistently chosen happiness, gratitude, and kindness as her guiding principles. She distilled her philosophy into four pillars:

1. Happiness is a choice.
2. Kindness is a must.
3. Joy should be shared.
4. Gratitude is the foundation.

"Gratitude changes everything. Even in the hardest moments, when you focus on what you’re grateful for, it shifts your perspective," Michelle explained.

Navigating Big Life Changes

At 50, Michelle made bold moves: closing her thriving LA business, relocating to Florida, and starting a new chapter closer to family. Just months after her move, she became a caregiver for her father, who was diagnosed with aggressive skin cancer. While her caregiving journey ended with his passing, Michelle views this time as a gift and continues to honor his memory through her work and mindset.

"I’ve learned that starting a new chapter doesn’t mean starting over. It’s about building on everything you’ve experienced and stepping into the next phase with confidence," she said.

Embracing Imperfections and Authentic Beauty

As a beauty expert, Michelle has a unique approach to helping clients embrace their natural beauty. She emphasizes that imperfections are what make us unique and encourages her clients to celebrate their individuality.

"I love pointing out the beautiful things about someone’s face that they might not see themselves. Beauty is found in the flaws—it’s what makes us human," Michelle said.

Saying Yes to Opportunities

Michelle credits much of her success and happiness to her willingness to say “yes” to new opportunities. Whether it’s relocating, pursuing a new career path, or simply engaging in conversation with a stranger, she believes openness brings abundance.

"When you’re open to positivity, you attract positivity. Life is all about saying yes to the rest of your story," she shared.

Final Thoughts: Light, Love, and Letting Go

Michelle’s message is clear: never dim your light for others. Whether you’re navigating transitions, building new relationships, or redefining success, staying true to yourself and spreading joy can transform not only your life but the lives of those around you.

"Don’t let anyone or anything take your light. Your happiness, kindness, and joy are what make you shine," she concluded.

Connect with Michelle:

• Website: MichelleBouse.com
• Instagram: @MichelleBouse

Let’s raise a glass to embracing every chapter of life with positivity, gratitude, and a commitment to living authentically. Cheers to the journey!