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

Kyla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

When I reflect on my journey from a seasoned industry professional to a successful salon owner, I am reminded of the quote, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” My path wasn’t a straight line, but every twist and turn led me to where I am today.

I had always known I was meant for more than just working under someone else’s banner. With a decade of experience in eyelash extensions, full body waxing, and skincare treatments, I felt an unrelenting desire to create something uniquely mine. This vision began to crystalize during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the world grappled with the uncertainties of the pandemic, I found myself reflecting deeply on my career and aspirations. The frequent closures and reopenings of businesses created a unique landscape—a landscape filled with both challenges and opportunities. It was during one of those long months of lockdown that I realized the opportunity before me. There was a significant gap in the market for personalized, high-quality beauty services. People were yearning for a sense of normalcy, for a touch of self-care amidst the chaos.

The transition from idea to execution was not instantaneous. It required meticulous planning, unwavering determination, and a lot of courage. I started with extensive market research. I analyzed the local demand for beauty services, identified my target audience, and studied the competition. With this information, I crafted a comprehensive business plan that outlined my services, pricing strategy, marketing approach, and financial projections. This plan became my roadmap, guiding me through every stage of the process.

The day I opened my salon was a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement, nervousness, and a profound sense of accomplishment all rolled into one. I still remember the first client who walked through the door—it was a moment of validation, a sign that my dream was now a reality.

The initial months were challenging yet rewarding. Building a clientele from scratch required relentless marketing efforts, impeccable service, and a genuine connection with each client. Word of mouth started to spread, and soon, my appointment book was filling up. The first year was a learning curve, filled with lessons on managing a business, understanding client needs, and constantly innovating to stay ahead.

Throughout this journey, I faced numerous challenges. Navigating the regulations and safety protocols during a pandemic, managing cash flow, and staying resilient in the face of uncertainties were some of the hurdles. However, each challenge strengthened my resolve and taught me invaluable lessons about adaptability and perseverance.

Today, four years after opening my salon, I am filled with gratitude and pride. My business has grown beyond my initial expectations, and I continue to strive for excellence in every service I offer. The journey from an idea to a thriving business was not easy, but it was worth every ounce of effort.

To anyone dreaming of starting their own business, I say this: Believe in your vision, embrace the challenges, and never underestimate the power of resilience. Your passion and determination can turn even the most daunting obstacles into stepping stones towards success.

Kyla, 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 started my career working for various companies, gaining invaluable experience and honing my skills in eyelash extensions, full body waxing, and skincare treatments. Over the years, I developed a deep understanding of the craft, constantly learning and evolving to stay at the forefront of industry trends and techniques. Today, my salon offers a wide range of services designed to cater to the diverse needs of my clients:

Eyelash Extensions: From classic to volume lashes, I provide customized lash extensions that enhance natural beauty and suit each client’s unique style.

Full Body Waxing: Using top-quality products, I ensure a smooth and comfortable waxing experience, addressing both hair removal and skin care.

Skincare Treatments: My skincare services are tailored to each individual’s skin type and concerns, aiming to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin.

I approach every treatment with a focus on quality and personalization, ensuring that each client receives the best possible care and results.

What truly sets me apart is my dedication to building genuine relationships with my clients. I am an open book, always ready to listen and share. This openness fosters a welcoming and trusting environment where clients feel comfortable and valued. My commitment to exceptional customer service and the friendships I form with each client are the cornerstones of my business.

To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my brand is built on passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I am committed to providing high-quality beauty services that enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence. My work ethic is rooted in honesty, integrity, and a genuine love for what I do. I am here not just as a beauty service provider but as a partner in your journey to feeling your best.

At my salon, you are more than just a client—you are a valued friend. I invite you to experience the personalized care and exceptional service that have become the hallmarks of my brand. Together, we can celebrate the beauty that lies within and radiates outward.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One of the most challenging and defining moments in my journey with KW Esthetics came a year after I opened my doors. My beloved grandmother was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. This news shook me to my core. Navigating the emotional turmoil of her illness while trying to manage and grow my business was incredibly taxing.
Balancing the demands of a fledgling business and my responsibilities as a granddaughter and finding the time to care for my grandmother was a daily struggle. There were days when I had to take time off to be with my grandmother, to support her and my family during such a critical period. My absence at the salon during these times often made me worry about its future. The weight of potentially having to shut down KW Esthetics loomed large.
In these dark times, my mom, aunt, and husband became my pillars of support. Their unwavering belief in me and my vision for KW Esthetics gave me the strength to keep pushing forward. My husband took on extra responsibilities at home, my mom and aunt helped manage family matters, and their collective encouragement kept me grounded.
With the continued support of my family and the loyalty of my clients, I managed to navigate that difficult period without shutting down my business. My grandmother’s illness and eventual passing were heart-wrenching, but they also taught me invaluable lessons about strength, perseverance, and the importance of community.
Looking back, that period was one of the most challenging yet defining times of my life. It taught me that resilience is not just about enduring hardships but also about finding purpose and strength in the face of adversity. It reaffirmed my commitment to my clients, my business, and my passion for beauty.To anyone facing similar struggles, I hope my story serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always a reason to keep going.
The support of loved ones, the impact you have on others, and the belief in your dreams can carry you through the toughest challenges. At KW Esthetics, I strive to embody this resilience every day, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my clients and community.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele at KW Esthetics has been a blend of trust-building, strategic marketing, and a comprehensive range of services. Creating a welcoming and open environment where clients feel valued and heard has always been at the core of my approach.
From the beginning, I made it a priority to cultivate an atmosphere of trust and transparency. Being an open book for my clients, I ensured that every interaction was genuine and personalized. By listening to their needs and concerns, I built strong relationships that went beyond just providing beauty services. This connection fostered loyalty and encouraged word-of-mouth referrals, which became a powerful driver of growth.
Recognizing the importance of digital presence in today’s world, I dabbled in social media marketing across various platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. These platforms allowed me to showcase my work, share client testimonials, and engage with a broader audience. Regular posts, stories, and interactive content helped create a vibrant online community. I also invested in targeted ads on these platforms to reach potential clients who were looking for the services I offer.
Ensuring that KW Esthetics was visible online was another crucial step. I made sure my business was listed everywhere—on Google, Google Maps, Yelp, and other relevant directories. This not only made it easier for potential clients to find me but also allowed them to read reviews and get a sense of the quality of my services. Encouraging satisfied clients to leave positive reviews further boosted my online reputation and attracted new clientele.
Understanding that convenience is a significant factor for many clients, I ensured that KW Esthetics offered more than one service. By providing eyelash extensions, full body waxing, and skincare treatments, I created a one-stop shop where clients could meet all their beauty needs in one place. This comprehensive approach not only increased client satisfaction but also encouraged them to try multiple services, enhancing their overall experience and loyalty.
Growing my clientele has been a multifaceted effort, driven by a commitment to trust, innovation, and comprehensive service. At KW Esthetics, I continue to refine these strategies, always seeking new ways to connect with and serve my clients better. My journey has shown me that with the right blend of personal connection and strategic marketing, it’s possible to build a thriving business that resonates with clients and stands out in the beauty industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kwesthetics.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kw.esthetics.xo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kwesthetics
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLnsJ80vXha-_jDG_u9XVlA
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kw-esthetics-san-diego?osq=kw+esthetics