Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rachel Reynolds, founder of Skincare by Rachel, located in Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Master Esthetician with an emphasis on skincare. I think it is so important to balance my treatments with results and relaxation. I do medical spa-type treatments with a luxury day spa-type feel in a treatment room. I am known for my massages and personalized treatments. Skincare and treatments are not one size fit all. You have to customize to get max benefits. Most of my clients are professionals or working mothers trying to balance work and home life. I really help my clients to take a deep breath, relax, and focus on themselves with self-care.
Tell us about yourself
I have been licensed and working in the industry for ten years. I was an educator for 5 1/2 years with Skinworks School of Advanced Skincare. I was working in a medical office doing insurance verifications and pre-authorizations and just dreamt of more. I loved the idea that I was helping people to get life-saving equipment and devices but missed a personal connection with working face to face. I decided to go into skincare because it truly is the best of both worlds. I get to help people with their skin concerns, and I get to work closely with people and have a connection. I am definitely a people person and really enjoy getting to know my clients.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say my biggest accomplishment has been getting out of my own head and being able to thrive in this industry with anxiety and awkwardness. I struggled most of my life with these issues, and in starting school for aesthetics, I was able to push myself to just get into uncomfortable situations. I came out of that experience so much more confident. The awkwardness really can take a toll on self-esteem. I think that is why I love what I do so much! Helping people with their skin can benefit self-esteem, and I love seeing that! There really is no better feeling than seeing someone glow and beam with pride about how their skin looks. I have been able to always push through and do hard things!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing is definitely uncertainty. I left teaching and went fully self-employed in 2020, right before COVID hit. It has been amazing but also very stressful. Now with talks of a recession, it definitely can be trying. I have such an amazing support system, and they have definitely helped. I also have the most amazing clients, and just knowing I get to come and see them every day makes all the stress totally worth it!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You must have passion for what you are doing! It is not easy to be in this industry, especially with the current uncertainty. If you don't love it, don't do it!
- Be patient and really try to hone in on what makes you happy. Don't just offer every service because you don't want to miss out on an opportunity. Figure out what you love and get really good at that! Put your energy into excelling at one or two things instead of being mediocre at everything.
- Do not burn bridges! This is a very small industry, and I have seen it working in the field as well as in teaching. Always be kind and professional! You never know who might be your next boss or coworker.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I love this industry! It has allowed me to be a small business owner and do what I love. Have fun with it, and don't ever stop learning! Continuing education is so important in this industry.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.skincarebyrachelatmetier.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chemicalpeeladdict
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chemicalpeeladdict/
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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