THE STORY

An eye trained on people, then drawn to the rooms around them.

I’m Sharon Rai—a creative founder, award-winning Master Artist, stylist and photographer, born and raised on Vancouver Island. My work has always been about helping people see possibility: in themselves, in their businesses and in the spaces around them.

2008 — SHARON RAI HAIR & MAKEUP ARTISTRY

I founded and grew Sharon Rai Hair & Makeup Artistry into one of Vancouver Island’s most recognized bridal beauty companies. As Master Artist, I specialized in both South Asian and Western bridal looks, recruited and personally trained a team of artists, and travelled for clients across Canada, the United States, Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

2014 — NATIONAL RECOGNITION

I was named Best Overall Hairstylist in Canada and Best Overall Makeup Artist in Canada. That same year, I founded Victoria WoW, a networking community for wedding-industry professionals. For five years, I produced monthly events in beautiful venues throughout Victoria—an experience that sharpened my eye for styling, hospitality and the way a space makes people feel.

2019 — AVENUE ONE

That creative evolution led to Avenue One, which I co-founded with my husband, Kal. Avenue One brings together staging, interior styling, organization, photography and property presentation. It is not separate from my story; it is the next chapter of it.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

I’m a Blanche Macdonald top-honours graduate, earned a Business and Marketing Management diploma from BCIT, trained in henna with Ash Kumar, studied photography and graduated from the Interior Design Institute.

TODAY

I work with clients through Avenue One, personally accept a select number of South Asian and Western bridal clients, and offer limited one-on-one education and mentoring. I also share design-minded travel, interiors and the details that shape a considered life.

I live on Vancouver Island with Kal and our three children—rooted here, and always inspired by the wider world.