We recently connected with Kara Eveleth and have shared our conversation below.
Kara, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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.
After 6 years of providing services as a cosmetic nurse injector at a Medical Spa, I began to realize my calling was to open my own small business in the town that I currently live and grew up in. Several years ago I began to think, “what if I were my own boss, and could make decisions for the workplace that I believed in?” But it seemed impossible at the time, and I doubted that I, a people-pleasing nurse who just wants to make others feel/look good, could pull off starting a business. Through gaining experience, teaching new injectors, and continuing my education, my confidence grew and by last year (2021) I knew it was something I would never regret. My patients and family encouraged me to take the leap of faith towards opening my aesthetic clinic, and Composure Aesthetics was founded winter 2021 in downtown Denton, TX. Setting up the business model and making it come to life took long working hours, patience, and faith. If you are considering starting your own business, don’t give up. Manifest your dreams, surround yourself with positivity, and know that you are capable. I often remind myself of how far I have come in my professional career and realize this is only the beginning.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
After nursing school I was initially an OB-GYN Clinic nurse, and have cared for many patients during their pregnancies, infertility struggles, and women’s health in later stages of life. This job was extremely rewarding in growing my medical knowledge and skills. The doctor I worked for was affiliated with a Medical Spa that was hiring a cosmetic injector, and my training and new career began. I am now an experienced aesthetic RN specializing in injectable treatments such as Botox, Dermal Fillers, Sculptra, PRFM, and skin health. When I started in this industry in early 2016, these services were still for the most part taboo and underdeveloped. In recent years, there have been many advancements such as FDA Approval of more natural-looking products and techniques, which has encouraged even the girl-next-door to consider preventative treatments. My two main priorities when designing a custom treatment plan are safety and creating a natural look. Cosmetic injections can be done incorrectly resulting in a fake/unnatural changed appearance, but this can be avoided. Each client is unique and therefore requires a special treatment plan. A complimentary consultation is the first step for a new client. My minimalistic approach to each treatment addresses areas of concern but never causes an “over-done” look. I founded Composure Aesthetics to be a comfortable, personal, high-end experience for each client. We should all strive to feel and look like our best self, and as an Aesthetic Nurse Injector, that is my hope & goal for each of my patients.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
When I first started in the field, social media didn’t seem to matter as much as growing a good reputation in the community, so for years I did not focus on Instagram but grew my clientele by word of mouth. Now, social media is mandatory for sharing your portfolio, personality, and service offerings. So many healthcare professionals are looking to become a cosmetic injector and it’s great that the industry is exploding. While a social media presence may be important, I truly believe you will create your base by referrals and recommendations. Becoming involved and engaging with your community and colleagues in the field will take you to new heights. Continuing education is also essential for growth. Even if the training is on something you feel you have mastered, attend anyway. You never know if you will learn a pearl of wisdom that can change your skillset in a positive way.
Any advice for managing a team?
Management and business ownership is all new to me, but the main takeaway I have so far is to be organized yet easy-going. I am a pretty laid-back person and so are the people on my team, so we naturally have positive energy at work. I do not believe one has to be controlling or micro-manage for the team to produce good work. With my small team, there is a no-judgement zone where we can be our unfiltered selves. This peaceful environment eliminates toxicity. For maintaining high morale, we have affirmations and spiritual verses in our break room for encouragement. We also have times of silent productivity and daily discussions reflecting on things happening in our lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://composuredfw.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/composure.aesthetics/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/composure.aesthetics
Image Credits
Composure Aesthetics