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

Laia, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How do you think about vacations as a business owner? Do you take them and if so, how? If you don’t, why not?

I think it’s so important to take time for yourself . Reward your goals or even setbacks. A vacation doesn’t have to be out of the country . It can be across town just for a few hours of quiet.
I take vacations as often as I can , maybe even too much haha.
But traveling allows me to see the world around me, appreciate the blessings and opportunities I’ve been graced with and return home with a fresh set of eyes for life as well as my business.

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 Laia and I am the owner of Castle Artistry. I’ve been a licensed esthetician for two years . Here at Castle Artistry , I offer makeup, waxing and facial services.

I initially got started in the esthetician field for my love of makeup . I quickly learned I loved the instant gratification of waxing and facials. Seeing the looks on my clients face makes me ecstatic.

I primarily specialize in the hair removal and skincare of POC. Understanding the complex nature of melanated skin requires consistent education and I pride myself with staying up to date on products, services and ideals to ensure the best care for my clients.

I am most proud of never giving up with my business. Being an entrepreneur requires a tremendous amount of sacrifice from life, family and sometimes even finances but my reward is making people happy and providing quality services to all those I am blessed to meet.

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

Consistently posting on social media platforms has been a tremendous help for growing my business. I’ve learned that some of the services I offer are usually an every now and then reward for most women or men but they are an important part of monthly self care. For example, educating my clients and future clients on getting facials and waxes every 4 weeks has helped make my business flourish and keep my clients happy.

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

Initially getting started with going to esthetician school, I had a lot of self doubt that I wouldn’t succeed . I pushed back going several times. Thankfully I had a great support system around me that encouraged me to chase my dreams.

Once I finished school I knew I wanted to work for myself.

Establishing my business and building clientele while going thru mental health , marital issues and working another full time job ,I constantly wanted to give up and quit when the load became to heavy or a depressive episode took over.
But reminding myself of my end goal (of owning a full service spa) and also making my clients happy has allowed me to push forward. Sometimes my clients are experiencing similar life experiences and the talks I have with my clients can be therapy for us both.

Celebrating small victories and daily reflection allows me to continue to push thru and ensure my business succeeds.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.castleartistry.as.me
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/castleartistry
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Castle-Artistry/100061948035331/

Image Credits
@apple_formular @Breezylifestylefit_