Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Angela Gray, Owner of Apothecary Skin Therapy, located in Tampa, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Apothecary Skin Therapy is a cozy studio in the heart of Seminole Heights where I practice organic and clinical skin therapy and herbal wellness. My clients range from young adults to retirees. What they share is the desire to feel their best & be confident in their skin. My clients also embrace whole body wellness and understand that your skin is simply mirroring what's happening on the inside & want to learn more. They're tired of being lost in the endless sea of products out there and trying to figure out what their skin truly needs. From checking in to what might be going on internally, reviewing our lifestyle and dietary choices all the way to skin care. I'm here to walk that walk with them.
Tell us about yourself
I was originally trained in Esthetics in Minnesota in 1989. Most of my early career was spent as a freelance makeup artist for television and film. Once my son was born, I didn't want to travel any longer and went back to school for more clinical Esthetics training here in Florida. Over the years, my focus on internal, whole-body wellness has continued to grow. This is where Herbalism made its way into my life and practice. After a traumatic loss in 2021, I worked closely with my Herbalist, and those extra herbal supports played an undeniable role in my healing. Still do! Providing a safe space for clients to simply be and learning what we can do together to add nervous system support, whole body wellness, and straight-up joy to our lives is what I'm here for!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is simply still being here. When I opened my business in 2016, I didn't have a business plan, or even a whole lot of anything else mapped out. I already had a job at a spa lined up when I absolutely stumbled across a small space for rent that was super affordable, and I just went for it! My business has continued to grow, survived Covid shutdowns & I've built some of the most meaningful relationships along the way! That last part there is my sweet spot💗
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Balancing all of the hats we wear. For many small business owners, we're both owner and operator. Whether I'm working one-on-one with a client or doing some deep-down cleaning, it's all mine, and that can get challenging sometimes. On the flip side, I wouldn't trade what I do for anything! I get to connect with people all day long as we share our different paths and journeys. To support each other along the way is one of the best gifts!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get super clear on your goals. Super clear!
- Stay flexible. We have our vision but stay open to what might present itself along the way.
- When a leap of faith opportunity shows up, especially a scary one, go for it! Do it!
- The gold is on the other side.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.apothecaryskintherapy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OrganicClinicalEsthetics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apothecaryskintherapy/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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