Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey by launching a wellness center but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Diana Strickland, owner of Diana's Divine Escape. It is a Seniors Mobile Nail & Hair Care based in Waterloo, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My company provides in-home beauty services to Seniors & those who are ill or immobile. I have been providing mobile services for over 11 years. I work with bedridden clients and may be dealing with a severe illnesses such as cancer, MS, Parkinson's', Dementia, ALS & more. I am passionate and loves that I can make people look and feel good.
Tell us about yourself
I graduated at the top of my class at Ginas College of Aesthetics in Waterloo in 1998. I then rented spaces in hair salons for many years. My favorite clients were Seniors. Many would come in with walkers, tired and struggling, and that gave me the idea for mobile services, so they could stay home and relax and not worry about having to leave home to get their beauty services. I then opened my portable spa. I have many regular clients, and they have become more like family to me. I couldn't ask for a better job. I love their stories and making them feel good. I lift their spirits, and they raise mine. We have shared laughter and tears as this is more than just a nail service. (I do nail care) Touch and compassion, and conversation are what make my service special. I get to work with clients at the end of life; I have the honour to make them feel good and take the minds of their current situation. There is no better feeling in the world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
In 2018 I decided to pursue expanding my services to Freeport Hospital in Kitchener. It took a year of determination to be allowed to do bedside services, another year to open my nail care spa location there, and another year to take over the hair salon. Then, unfortunately, COVID closed us three weeks later. We are in the process of opening again, and I am very excited to provide my services at the hospital again. I will continue my mobile in-home services as I love that, and there is a continuous need as my business expands.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing is when I am sick and need time off, and my clients want me. I feel guilty for needing time off and disappointing them, but they are all understanding.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Growing a business takes time, be patient but never give up. Be passionate about your business and do what makes you happy. Be ready to work hard; being a business owner never stops.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I am blessed to do what I do, and I can't wait to meet many more beautiful Seniors and make them look and feel good.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.dianasdivineescape.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dianasdivineescape/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianasdivineescape_mobile_spa
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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