We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amanda Waters a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Amanda, appreciate you joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
One of the most life changing risks I’ve taken was starting my aesthetics business. When I moved back to Phoenix, in 2013, I was working at a small local waxing studio trying to rebuild some sort of clientele in a new city. Clients were curious about my work history, as any new client would be when you’re having someone new working on you. Once I told them I had worked for a prestigious plastic surgeon and one of the top 3 renowned wellness spas in the world, they were all ears to hear about my knowledge in aesthetics. Month after month the booking requests started flowing in. Everyone started really push me to create my own unique wellness aesthetics business. They believed in me and the education I provide. Knowing they have someone they can trust to be honest about what they’re investing in. Having just left a low paying job and having zero education in business, starting my own business seemed impossibly difficult. I discussed it with my mother, whom is my best friend, confidant, and biggest supporter. We came to the conclusion that it’s worth the risk. Here I am 9.5 years later and so happy I took the leap. Not only do I love what I do, but my clientele has also given me such a rewarding career. I couldn’t be happier with my decision.
Amanda, 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?
I have been a licensed and practicing aesthetician for 17 years. How lucky am I to have found what I love to do at such a young age?” How I got into aesthetics is completely random. How I got into aesthetics was completely random. I wasn’t even aware of what an aesthetician was exactly. After speaking to a family friend at a wedding, whom also happened to be a plastic surgeon, I was convinced I would be a great fit in the industry. I decided an aesthetics program might be worth a shot.
I was determined to work for the best and gain as much knowledge and education through experience. I wanted to know every part of aesthetics. Medical procedures, lasers, cosmetic and spa treatments, management, reception, sales, and the science behind it all.
There are millions of different skincare brands on the market. The market is saturated with skincare lines that do not work or cause more damage to your skin. I have, and still continue to, try out new products. There is always research and science to be discovered. I have found a niche for clean, luxury, holistic, treatments and products that provide real results. It’s incredibly hard to find pharmaceutical grade, chemical/toxin free, organic, vegan, gluten free, cruelty free products that show real results.
I have been able to experiment with some amazing, more exclusive, luxury skincare that are sourced from countries around the world. I only provide the products I truly believe in. When I experience products that impress me (ie: Luzern Laboratories, Ayuna•Less Is Beauty, etc.), I know I have to share with everyone.
Being that I live in a state where many people take their health seriously, healthy skincare is in demand. The problem is that skincare masks the names of toxic ingredients to deceive the consumer. People are more confused than ever. It is my duty to educate my clients, friends, and family members on what would be best for their skin, to see results, and overall health.
I will never recommend a product or treatment that I don’t believe will benefit a client.
What sets me apart from other aesthetics businesses? Skincare with integrity.
Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?
Absolutely not. I am grateful everyday that I made this choice to pivot my education journey. I really motivate others to follow their intuition. Go for what you want. Take the risk. Work hard. I know this is cheesy but, you can do anything you put your mind to.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Being honest, reliable, professional, and being myself. Making the client feel most comfortable. It’s not just luxury skincare. I pay close attention to the devices, the ergonomics, the bedding, linens, essential oils, the temperature of my clients. I want everyone to feel weightless, stress free, and safe.
7598.9% of my clients don’t want to leave once their services are complete. 75% of my clients fall asleep. Knowing I give people a safe space for self care is part of what makes my job so rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Website: Watersaesthetics.com
- Instagram: @watersaesthetics
- Facebook: Watersaesthetics
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/YYme2ZXM1m
Image Credits
Katie Levine Photo Edge Creative