Artistry with Intention
Makeup and Nails By Elysia Latherow
sonder -
noun
[son-der]/ ˈsɒn dər /
the feeling one has on realizing that every other individual one sees has a life as full and real as one’s own, in which they are the central character and others, including oneself, have secondary or insignificant roles.
In a state of sonder, each of us is at once a hero, a supporting cast member, and an extra in overlapping stories.
the Soul of Sonder Alternative
“One of the most important things you can do on this earth is to let people know they are not alone”
My name is Elysia, and I am the creator of Sonder Alternative.
I grew up in a one-of-a-kind family in Florida where creativity and self-expression were deeply encouraged. My parents ran commercial haunted houses, which introduced me to the world of cosmetics, special effects, and transformative art. Creation has remained one of the biggest constants in my life, and over the years I have (quite literally) put blood, sweat, and tears into developing my craft.
My path into this industry has not been linear. I live with chronic illness and mental health struggles that have deeply shaped the way I move through the world and connect with others. Art has always been both an outlet and a way to reconnect with myself when things feel impossible.
After nearly completing cosmetology school in 2019, I was forced to withdraw due to health complications. When COVID hit, I faced financial and housing insecurity. I spent several years homeless while trying to keep myself and my two cats alive. Those experiences gave me firsthand understanding of how isolating, exhausting, and inaccessible life can become during difficult circumstances.
Despite everything, I keep creating. I graduated from nail school and received my nail technician license in November 2025. I know how meaningful small acts of self expression, comfort, and care can be for people who are struggling.
Above all else, I want the space around my work to feel human. I care deeply about making people feel safe, welcomed, understood, and free to express themselves without judgment.