We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Vanessa Rice. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Vanessa below.

Vanessa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?

Everyone starts somewhere… and this is how my journey began.
My very first client came from my time working in the student clinic during massage school. Weekend clinics, curtain-separated spaces, and a whole lot of nerves—but I showed up ready to learn and give my best.
I remember greeting my client, asking all the right questions, stepping out so they could get settled… then walking back in and pushing through those first-time jitters. And you know what? I did an amazing job.
That “first client” turned into something so much bigger.
They started booking me every weekend—60 minutes turned into 90, then 2 hours. I worked with them throughout my entire program, and when I graduated… they followed me.
From the student clinic → to traveling to their home
That’s how my mobile massage business was born. What started as part-time quickly became the foundation of something beautiful. Almost 17 years later, they’re still a client—and have referred so many amazing people my way.
This is your reminder: Show up, even when you’re nervous. Give your best, every time. You never know who will change your life
Grateful for the journey. Grateful for my clients. Grateful for the growth

Vanessa, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My path into massage therapy wasn’t traditional—but it was meant for me.
While finishing my last year of architecture school, I found myself naturally massaging my friends’ shoulders during midterms and finals. Study sessions turned into stress relief sessions… and after a lot of encouragement, I finally looked into massage therapy school.
The moment I found the right program, I went all in.
After graduating, I worked in a few spa settings while building my mobile massage business part-time. I wanted to truly understand the business—hands-on—and apply everything I learned to create something of my own.
Over time, I developed my style as a Therapeutic Wellness Massage Therapist—blending techniques like Deep Tissue, Swedish, Therapeutic Massage, Hot Stones, and more. My sessions range from 60 to 120 minutes, helping clients with everything from chronic pain to simply needing time to reset and recharge. And the best part? I bring the wellness spa experience directly to my clients’ homes. One of my proudest moments came in 2023 when I stepped onto the stage to compete in massage championships—the “Massage Olympics.” That experience gave me the confidence to fully step away from the franchise spa world and go all in on my mobile massage business.
Since then, I’ve continued investing in myself—attending conferences, taking continuing education courses, and learning new techniques. Because one thing I know for sure: There is no “one way” to care for every body. Growth never stops and my clients deserve the very best
This journey keeps evolving—and so do I.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

One thing about me—I’m always finding ways to connect with new clients
Over the years, I’ve discovered a few powerful ways to grow my business:
Summer festivals have been a game changer. Setting up for chair massage events allows people to experience my work in real time—no pressure, just results.
But recently, what’s been the MOST effective?
Recording my sessions and sharing them on social media.
People want to see before they try.
Visuals build trust, spark curiosity, and give a real understanding of what I offer—way more than words ever could.
When people can actually watch the technique, the flow, the results… it makes booking that much easier.
Experience leads to connection, visuals create confidence and confidence turns into clients
I’m just getting started.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

What truly helped me build my reputation in this industry wasn’t shortcuts—it was staying grounded in who I am consistency, authenticity and fully embracing the natural gift I was given.
I showed up—even when it was slow.
I stayed true to my style—never trying to be like anyone else.
And I trusted that what I bring to the table is enough.
Over time, that built trust.
That built relationships.
That built my name.
Your gift will make room for you… but only if you honor it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Lovinghandsmobilemassage.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtlovinghands?igsh=Yzk0MHhrN3A1bWxy
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CL1FUxA5X/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-rice-29549692?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

Image Credits

Massage Brain American Massage Championship