We were lucky to catch up with Paula Begel recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Paula, thanks for joining us today. How did you get your first job in the field that you practice in today?

In 1983, I was a single mother. Phlebotomist, Aerobic instructor, personal trainer. Then a good friend, an orthopedic surgeon suggested that Physical Therapy would be a good degree to have to support myself and my son as it built on what I already knew. So I graduated as a Physical Therapy Assistant. After 4 years in the field, I went to massage school. As a Licensed Massage Therapist and a PTA, I had many opportunities and wore both hats for many years. My Massage school owner/instructor introduced me to Aromatherapy and had a Certification program. I spent years and continue with certifications and education. So my first job just kept growing from where I started; being in the right place at the right time. Knowing the right people and connecting. I had a private massage and Aromatherapy practice for 26 years. Covid hit, and an out-of-state move. Starting over only as an LMT, I had to build new connections and opportunities. Fast forward 6 years, I worked a few massage jobs then landed a job a a private Country Club wellness Director. I incorporated Massage as I had to cover for staff when needed. I brought in custom signature scents for aromatherapy massage blends. I also held Aromatherapy events. Now I no longer have that position and with my connections to the Spa industry, I consult and have been a speaker at two Aromatherapy conferences as well as I continue to offer special Aromatherapy events for high-end resorts, spas and conferences. I will also be doing corporate Aroma experiences.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

See previous page..
Current services are Spa consulting, blending & product knowledge. CE provider for NCBTMB, FLA,SC.
I have a small private massage practice, I teach aqua classes and I am a 6th Degree Sensei Black Belt, Martial Artist, Level 4 Krav Maga, Self -Defense instructor: which sets me up to blend signature pain relief Aromatherapy blends. :)
What sets me apart is my 30 years of Aromatherapy experience and combined talents. I was recently awarded the honor of “Vintage Aromatherapist.” Time flies ! I have a passion for Aromatherapy and I share whenever possible. My focus is safety first as there is so much mis-information available to the general public.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

What helped the most in building my reputation in my market was all my prior years of work experience. Connecting and working in the same industry as my peers. Building trust is a must.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Pivoting my career when when I made a move during Covid out-of-state. I gave up a successful 26 year practice as well as a secure part time Forbes 4-star resort spa. I reformulated their Aromatherapy massage blends as well as helped update the spa services menu.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amtamembers.com/paulabegel
• Facebook: pbegel@gmail.com
• Linkedin: pbegel@gmail.com

Image Credits

ICAN