Shelly Montante’s interest in aesthetics began with her first job as a model, at the age of fifteen, which landed her on the pages of Cosmopolitan Magazine. Her career in fashion spanned fifteen years and was highlighted by numerous magazine features, participation in fashion shows, and residences in New York City, Paris, and Milan. Having direct access to "super model" beauty, it was easy for Shelly to understand the essence of true inner beauty as well as the connection between how one feels about their appearance and their self image.
"When I would meet someone who was utterly gorgeous, a world famous model for instance, and they were unpleasant to be around or reluctant to share their inner beauty, my impression of them was transformed immediately, and they appeared quite ugly. The most beautiful people I have met are the people who may not be 'super model' beautiful, but are the people who truly had an inner beauty and wanted to share that with you. My goal with Heal-ink Touch is to provide people with the opportunity to create a part of them that will empower them to feel complete beauty. Breaking down the barriers, and helping people build the beauty that they feel they are missing, can give them the strength they need to share their inner beauty. 'Beauty is in the eye of the beholder' is one of the most accurate quotes we will come across, however I believe the beauty that one beholds is dictated by the delivery of the inner beauty from the subject."
After the birth of her son in Italy, Shelly returned to Virginia so she could focus on the healthcare of her child, who was born with special needs. Once settled , Shelly started her own business known in the Tidewater, Virginia, area as MODA Art and Fashion Productions. MODA was a 3,000 square foot gallery where gallery openings, fashion show, art classes and benefits were regularly held.
Shelly moved to Richmond, Virginia, in the year 2000 and worked in retail cosmetics and as a free lance make up artist, a job that eventually served as her means to get through nursing school. Continually participating in charitable events, Shelly is insistent on finding new and interesting ways to give back to the community.
Shelly holds a Master's of Science in Nursing and works for several local hospitals as a Registered Nurse First Assist in the operating room. She is a proud wife and the mother of three wonderful children.