We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Indira Hodzic a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Indira thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.

Take the leap. Then take the next leap. Bring the best people on board, and listen to their ideas. When I started my first beauty and aesthetics business more than 11 years ago, it felt like a huge risk, but I bet on myself and with grit and determination it has paid off.

I look back on the early days of our first MedSpa business and recognize that there was no blueprint at the time. There are things I’ve done in the businesses I’ve started since then which have made us more efficient and streamlined, but ultimately, the process worked, and it’s helped me land where I am today. I wouldn’t trade the challenges of those early days for anything. The first business led to starting the second almost four years ago, then again led us to launch yet another business about one year ago, each expanding our reach into new areas of wellness, clean skincare and women’s intimate aesthetics.

One of the major challenges I faced was establishing an authority presence. I was very young, and some people found it hard to trust that someone so young could be successful. I had to overcome that youth with results and knowledge, as well as hard work. Older people respond to young people who put in the work, and that’s what really got my foot in the door. I knew my stuff, and it showed when I sat in meetings with other experts in the field.

Gathering and listening to the advice of those who have been there before you is great, but ultimately, you’ll need to trust your own instincts and believe in yourself.

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

A lifelong love of beauty and wellness, from early Barbie makeover days started my journey that ultimately led me to establish a premier beauty spa at the age of 31. Back in college, my passion for skincare collided with a keen interest in the business aspect, prompting me to think, “Why not combine them?” My mission was clear: to contribute to the improvement of self-esteem through the avenues of beauty and wellness.

Growing up, my parents, both entrepreneurs, provided an unconventional but inspiring backdrop—cutting doll’s hair and performing facials, their endeavors always left them looking worse, yet the inspiration they instilled in me was invaluable.

My path to entrepreneurship in the United States was anything but conventional. Fleeing my home country of Bosnia with my family at the onset of the war in 1992, we first arrived in Germany, with the help of extended family. None of us spoke German, and we had nothing. We first settled in refugee housing, and my parents found jobs; like most refugees, they worked tirelessly for six years in Germany.

We eventually moved to the Pacific Northwest, settling in Washington, ready to start a new life. Facing the challenge of learning English and adapting to yet another new culture, I attended school while my family ventured into various businesses.

What sets me apart in my industry is my unwavering attention to detail, a genuine passion for what I do, and a steadfast belief in utilizing what I would personally endorse. Reflecting on my journey, I am most proud of starting this venture at a young age, taking risks, and persevering with faith and passion, all in pursuit of making a positive impact.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Harnessing the power of networking; I engage in the strategic distribution of trials and treatments, fostering robust connections within the industry.

By consistently building strong relationships, I rely on the ripple effect of word-of-mouth and referrals to amplify the reach of my business.

Additionally, I actively contribute to creating a vibrant community by organizing monthly events aimed at raising awareness about the importance of beauty and wellness.

This multifaceted approach not only promotes my business but also establishes a supportive network that extends beyond mere transactions, embodying a shared commitment to self-esteem and well-being.

How’d you meet your business partner?

The serendipity of my entrepreneurial journey with FemMD unfolded when I crossed paths with my business partner, an unexpected connection that blossomed from a client relationship.

It all began when one of our local newscasters came in to my med spa. She became a regular client for beauty and wellness services.

Through our professional interactions, a genuine camaraderie developed, sparking conversations that transcended the typical client-provider dynamic.

Recognizing shared visions and values, we soon discovered the potential for a formidable partnership. What started as a professional collaboration evolved into a dynamic alliance, merging our expertise and enthusiasm to elevate our business to new heights.

The fusion of our backgrounds, with one foot in the world of journalism and the other in beauty, has brought a unique and compelling perspective to our endeavors, emphasizing the significance of unexpected connections in shaping the trajectory of our success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.fem-md.com (currently under construction)
• Instagram: @femmdofficial

Image Credits
JodyLynn photography