We were lucky to catch up with Marija DeVita recently and have shared our conversation below.
Marija, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about how you went about setting up your own practice and if you have any advice for professionals who might be considering starting their own?
After years of working for international skincare companies I wanted to be in control of my destiny. I wanted to be able to give the best treatment options to my clients. Most protocols are cookie cutter and in my view one size doesn’t fit all. Customized treatments and freedom to choose brands and their wellness philosophy was very important to me.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
From an early age I was drawn into skincare and well-being practices. I grew up in Croatia,(part of former Yugoslavia), on a farm in a multigenerational family and even though we worked hard (including kids), my mom and her mom found time for self-care. They have set example for me and my sister. Using organic materials found on our property and in the countryside, including honey, my mom and grandma have created all kinds of skincare and home remedies. Often reflecting and reminiscing about childhood, I am still in awe of how they were able to create something from almost nothing. Being first born I was their main helper. My mom was very witty, joyous and creative. She was first to rise and last to bed. Mom and dad were amazing stewards of our property, animals and all crops. I remember how my mom spent several sleepless nights nursing to health small lamb that was bitten by a snake, with her homemade remedies. Neither political climate nor surroundings were able to take away the joy and laughter we shared around the dinner table every night. In my Studio, my goal is to help people rediscover joy, whether through esthetic services, massage therapy, Oncology skincare solutions, or my homemade aromatherapy creation. I love learning and expanding on my family traditions by creating services and products. to uplift the spirit, calm the mind and energize the body.
Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?
Being teachable and willing to learn is huge. I am also wise enough to learn from other people mistakes. Discipline, passion, hunger to learn more and understand more never stops. As an esthetician and massage therapist it is a privilege to be able to offer therapeutic touch and pain relief. I take that very seriously. Every person has a story and many layers. I build trust and relationships with my guests. I love my community, love supporting certain charities and networking with other business owners. I practice what I preach.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
I opened up my esthetician practice September 1st, 2019. March 4, 2020, I enrolled in massage therapy school so I can provide esthetic and massage therapy services to my guests (clients). Few weeks later Covid shot school and my practice. I put my thinking hat on and in a few days come up with ways to help my clients. Mask wearing came with its own skin issue. People were afraid of the unknown and stressed. My school restarted theory classes virtually for a time being, and I decided to use Social Media, email list and every means to reach out to my current and potential new clients offering skincare solutions, aromatherapy and listening ear. It paid off. Personalized solutions to their problems were a key to continue to be in business. When other solo practitioners or spas decided to close permanently or do nothing, I went bold. I built my website, offered complimentary virtual consultation, added additional skincare products and expanded offerings. During that time I took advantage of free education offered by many professional entities.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.talawellness.com
- Instagram: @talawellness
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talawellness
Image Credits
All photos have been taken by me – Marija DeVita