ABOUT US
APRIL STRONG GANSMANN
April has been in the beauty industry for over19 years as a Makeup Artist, Commercial Model, Pageant Title Holder and Licensed Esthetician. She graduated with her B.A. in 2012 from Northeastern Illinois University and received her esthetics education from Skin Institute. Since 2010, she has been the owner of April Strong Artistry. April has a passion for all things beauty with a love for makeup and customized esthetics, tailoring her services to each client. She grew up in the industry learning from top artists and estheticians in Chicago, St. Louis, and Nashville. April has also worked with brides all over the Midwest and spent a year working for one of St. Louis's Top Plastic Surgeons as a Medical Esthetician.Her work has also hit national pageant stages such as Miss America, Miss International, Miss Earth, and Miss Volunteer America. She was also a competitor her self and understands the needs of contestants sitting in her chair. April was Miss US International 2007, Miss Chicago 2010, Miss Illinois Sweetheart 2010, Miss Cook County 2011, and Miss Heartland 2012. She was1st, 3rd, and 2nd Runner-Up at Miss Illinois (MAO) 2010 -2012. As well as1st Runner-up at Miss Illinois 2014 (USA) and 3rd runner-up at Miss Michigan 2015 (USA). Outside of her career, she is a wife & momma. She is a mental health advocate, enjoys traveling, good food, yoga, and spending time with her family, and friends. She also has enjoyed exploring all STL has to offer since moving to The Lou in 2019!
GLORIA STRONG GILLEN
Gloria has been in the industry for over 40 years. She started as a Licensed Cosmetologist as a stylist in Michigan working at places like Nouvage, Marshall fields and Nathans. She attended and trained with the infamous Martin Parsons as well as Ann and Gary Bray, the famous Pivot Point Trainer's. She later opened her own full service salon called "Studio Clix" as well as a modeling agency "Xit Modeling". It was through this career path that she discovered another passion, makeup. Gloria decided to close the salon and switch gears to focus on photo-shoots, runway shows, and offering classes. Then in 2003 Gloria started working for MAC Cosmetics and in 2007 moved to Chicago as she became 1 of 50 on MAC's Chicago "Impact team". In 2025 Gloria moved St. Louis and is now a Lead Artist with ASA. Outside of her career of Hair and Makeup, Gloria loves traveling and spending time with her husband, grandchildren, family, friends, and maltipoo Jaxy.
MELODY ROESSLER
Meet Melody, one of ASA's amazing contractors. With over 33 years of experience as a Licensed Cosmetologist in the beauty industry, she has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and trusted hairstylists in the business. From advanced techniques in extensions, wigs, and temporary hairpieces - including halo wefts and clip-ins - Melody brings artistry and expertise to every client. For the past 8 years, she has specialized in pageant and bridal hair offering luxury on-site stylings for weddings, pageants, and special events, Her portfolio includes work at New York Fashion Week, Miss America National Pageant, and the Miss Volunteer America National Pageant. Melody now resides in Nashville, Tennessee while continuing her freelance career working with artists, models, pageant contestants, and brides across the country.
JENNA ROESSLER
Meet Jenna, one of ASA's fantastic contractors. Jenna is a licensed Esthetician and creative makeup artist with over 5 years of experience in the beauty industry. From doing full face glam for bridal parties, state and national level pageants, to a 800 hour program in MO in esthetics as well as in TN for her license. Jenna brings knowledge and a result oriented focus to every client. Outside of her career in the beauty industry, Jenna is also a Singer and Songwriter and an active member of NSAI and ASCAP. She was also a Miss Missouri local title holder from 2020-2022, the 2022 National American Miss contestant winner and a 2020 State Ambassador for Be Strong Movement.
DANIELLA HERRINGTON
Meet Daniella, one of ASA's wonderful contractors. Daniella is a STL Local and has been doing Makeup since 2016 and is certified with ExpertRating by MUA Megan Vigil. Daniella specializes in soft glam and everyday makeup but enjoys a spectrum of looks. She finds joy in being part of someone's special day and will bring calmness and laughter to your experience while sitting in her chair. She prides herself on her in-depth knowledge of makeup, skin care products, and techniques to achieve and create the desired visual results to enhance outer beauty. Outside of work, she is a proud wife and mother to four beautiful daughters that are constantly keeping her sharp with the latest trends. In addition, she loves gardening, painting, & reading!