Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alexis Anest. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alexis, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How’s you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?

After becoming a licensed esthetician, I imagined myself taking the traditional spa route—performing facials in a calm, quiet setting… but the universe had other plans.

Unexpectedly, I found myself working at a local European Wax Center. As a new esthetician, I was intimidated by the idea of waxing (especially brows and bikini waxes). The fear of making a mistake or causing discomfort to a client almost made me throw in the towel. Let me just say, I’m so glad I stuck with it. With time, practice, and determination, I fell in love with the art of waxing. I perfected my technique, learned to manage my time efficiently, and discovered how to make clients feel comfortable in vulnerable situations.

I’m incredibly grateful for my time at EWC. It was a meaningful stepping stone in my esthetics journey. I learned so much from the talented estheticians I worked alongside and from the loyal clients who trusted me, appointment after appointment.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Alexis but most people call me Lex. I’m a mom of 2, licensed esthetician, and business owner.
I started in the beauty industry when I went to Make Up Designory in 2015 and became a freelance makeup artist. Soon after, I became a licensed esthetician and unexpectedly started working at the European Wax Center. I realized I had an act for waxing, specifically eyebrows. The most rewarding feeling was making people feel amazing in their own skin regardless of their shape, size, background or gender. And that’s still my motivation today!

Around 2018, I began pursuing another passion of mine: vintage collecting and selling. I launched an online Etsy shop, offering a curated selection of pieces from my personal collection—which, at the time, was slowly taking over my home. What started as a fun creative outlet has since grown into a global business, shipping one of a kind pieces to customers all over the world.

In 2023, Retro Radiance was born – a dreamy blend of my two favorite things: beauty and vintage. Here, I offer brow services, full-body waxing, and makeup application in a space that’s welcoming and professional. After their service, clients are free to browse the in-store vintage boutique and maybe even take home a little treasure—because self-care should always come with a side of something sparkly.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I started Retro Radiance in 2023 after finding the perfect studio space just minutes from home. I created my logo, stocked my supplies, and slowly started growing my clientele. Just as things were picking up, two months in, I found out I was pregnant with my second baby, a little girl! I was thrilled… and also unsure how I’d juggle growing a new business while recovering from another C-section and caring for both a newborn and a toddler.

But I was determined. Even when I couldn’t give my business 100% physically or emotionally, I kept going. I was taking clients right up until a week before my scheduled C-section. And while I was snuggled up with my newborn barely able to get out of bed, I was on my laptop updating my website and creating content for social media.

Just a month post-op, I was back in the studio taking clients. Being there lit me up. It gave me a sense of purpose outside of motherhood and reminded me that I’m still me. Waxing and makeup aren’t just my work, they’re my creative outlet. Showing up for my craft helps me show up even better as a mom and wife at home.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

In the beauty industry, having skill, artistry, and solid technique is essential. But what truly sets you apart is empathy and connection. It’s about reading energy, understanding what someone needs, and making them feel their absolute best both inside and out.

People want to feel seen and heard. Yes, they want to leave happy with their service. Sometimes they also just need to vent about their day or even enjoy an hour of peaceful silence. At Retro Radiance, my mission is to create an experience that goes beyond the surface. I want every client to walk out of my salon not just looking fire, but feeling lighter, more confident, and more cared for than when they came in.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.retroradiancenj.com
• Instagram: @retroradiancenj
• Other: TikTok: @retroradiancenj
  Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/RetroRadianceNJ

Image Credits

Chelsea Rose Photography