We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Robyn Otero. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Robyn below.
Robyn, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?
Having been trained in Brazilian waxing through a waxing franchise, I honed in on my skill by striving to be the best and brainstorming ways to make the process easier. I offered more than just a wax, I like to think I established trust with these women by being personable and efficient. I learned that once you feel you’ve mastered a skill that you love, it’s time to go out on your own and have complete control over your service experience for clients. Franchises are great to first learn the skill but don’t let them hold you back from going out on your own. Clients will find you – don’t worry about that!
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 Robyn Otero and I own The JOY of WAX in Highlands Ranch, CO where I specialize in Brazilian Bikini waxing. I have been a licensed esthetician for 20 years and absolutely love what I do! I started out of beauty school providing multiple services such as facials and waxing. After 10 years, I was ready to focus on waxing. I found it to be more satisfying than facials, plus it was more lucrative. Helping women achieve smooth, hair-free skin brings me so much joy. One thing I just love to hear after completing a service is “I feel like a whole new woman!”
I am humbled by the fact women feel comfortable sharing an intimate part of themselves. Because of this intimacy, we talk about all sorts of secrets and deep thoughts without judgment. My goal is for women to feel at ease getting half-naked in front of a perfect stranger and know they are in good hands.
From technique and products used, to cooling fans and stress balls, I have perfected the art of the Brazilian Bikini wax by providing a virtually pain-free service. My goal is to educate women on the process to make it less scary because it is a life-changing experience and is totally worth it!
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
First and foremost, get on Google! It took me a month or so because being in a shared space can be challenging, but it’s worth the trouble. I pay $100-$200 a month for a paid ad and after two years, it is my most effective marketing by far. Along with that, I periodically send a link to clients asking if they would be so kind to post a review for me.
Client referrals were also helpful to growing when I first opened. Talking about our referral program with every client helped spread the word a lot! I wanted the referral program to be more than the usual so I offer $10 credit for the referred client and $10 credit for the person who referred them. That seems to always go over well.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Unfortunately, when I left the waxing franchise, I was immediately slapped with an unreasonable “Cease and Desist” letter from their attorney. This was followed by a subpoena to appear in court for an emergency injunction before a trial. In the meantime, they attempted to turn my business partner against me by having her testify on their behalf. I also had a former friend provide a false testimony in regards to my position at the company. Mind you, this was during quarantine and pandemic. I could have easily just closed the business and let them win but I knew I had the potential to run a successful business so I stuck it out, at all costs. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever been through.
I’m proud to say that I came out on top, without having to go to trial and they didn’t get what they wanted (for me to close). My business partner and I came out of it closer than ever. Now, every success we have feels sweeter because we survived a corporate company trying to shut us down!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thejoyofwax.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_joy_of_wax/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejoyofwax
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-joy-of-wax-highlands-ranch
Image Credits
Bri Bond Photography