Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Stephanie Garbaczewski. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Stephanie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
When Steph and Erica decided to launch NIKS Medical Spa, it was more than just starting another business — it was a leap of faith into a highly competitive and evolving aesthetic market. Both of them had solid careers as dermatology-trained physician assistants and previously emergency department medical provider, with years of experience and steady jobs. Yet, the idea of creating their own space, a place where they could truly shape the patient experience and deliver personalized, natural results, kept pulling at them.
The risk wasn’t just financial, though that was significant — leaving stable incomes to invest in a new venture, renting and renovating a space in Del Mar, California, and committing to growing a business in a city known for high standards and discerning clients. It was also the risk of reputation and relationships. They were stepping out on their own, trusting their expertise and vision without the safety net of a larger medical group behind them.
At the heart of it, Steph and Erica believed in a different kind of med spa — one that prioritized subtle, natural enhancements and genuine patient care over flashy trends or over-treatment. That philosophy meant building a patient base slowly, one client at a time, focusing on education and long-term results instead of quick fixes.
In the early days, every challenge felt magnified. Marketing budgets were tight, there was uncertainty about how quickly they could attract the right clientele, and they had to learn the ins and outs of running a small business — from scheduling and billing to staff management. There was also the ongoing pressure to stay on top of new technologies and treatments, which meant carefully balancing investments in equipment with their modest budget.
But that risk paid off. Over time, NIKS Medical Spa became known not only for its skilled injectors and quality treatments but for the warm, personal experience that Steph and Erica crafted for every visitor. Their dedication to natural beauty and individualized care built trust, leading to a loyal and growing community of patients.
Today, the spa is thriving — a testament to their willingness to step out of their comfort zones and trust in their vision. The risk wasn’t just about launching a business; it was about redefining what aesthetic care could feel like for their patients, and that has made all the difference.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
We’re Steph and Erica, sisters and co-founders of NIKS Medical Spa, located in beautiful Del Mar, California. Our journey into the aesthetic and medical spa industry began through our backgrounds as dermatology-trained physician assistants. With nearly a decade of combined experience in medical aesthetics, we developed a deep passion for helping people feel confident in their natural beauty — not by changing who they are, but by enhancing their best features with subtle, personalized treatments.
At NIKS Medical Spa, we specialize in a range of carefully curated services, including wrinkle relaxers like Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, microneedling with radiofrequency, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatments, and laser therapies. Our focus is on delivering natural-looking results that empower our clients to look and feel their best without ever feeling “overdone.”
What really sets us apart is our commitment to personalized care. We take the time to listen, educate, and tailor treatments to each individual’s unique needs and goals. It’s not just about the latest trends or quick fixes — it’s about long-term, healthy skin and confidence. We’ve built NIKS around the belief that true beauty is authentic and that aesthetic medicine should complement that authenticity.
We’re most proud of the community we’ve created — a welcoming space where clients feel comfortable, cared for, and understood. Helping people transform their skin and their confidence in a natural way is deeply rewarding for us.
If there’s one thing we want potential clients and followers to know, it’s this: at NIKS Medical Spa, you’re not just another appointment on the schedule. You’re a valued individual, and we’re here to partner with you on your journey to glowing, healthy skin — always with honesty, expertise, and heart.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
While training, certifications, and technical knowledge are absolutely essential in the medical aesthetic field, what truly sets apart great providers is the ability to connect deeply with each patient on a personal level. Success isn’t just about mastering injection techniques or knowing the latest treatment protocols — it’s about caring for the whole person.
Before even reaching for the syringe, we take the time to really get to know who our patients are — their lifestyle, their insecurities, their goals, and even their fears. This holistic understanding allows us to tailor treatments that honor their unique beauty and aspirations rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
Caring for the patient means creating a safe, trusting environment where open communication is encouraged. We listen actively and educate thoroughly, so patients feel empowered to make informed decisions about their care. Sometimes the best treatment isn’t more product, but knowing when to hold back, suggest alternative options, or even advise a break to let the skin naturally heal and glow.
In this field, empathy and genuine concern for our patients’ well-being go hand-in-hand with technical skill. When you approach aesthetics as a partnership rather than a procedure, the results aren’t just beautiful — they’re transformative, lasting, and deeply satisfying for both the patient and provider.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Building a strong reputation in the medical aesthetic market takes more than just offering great treatments — it’s about building genuine relationships and continually investing in our skills. One of the biggest things that has helped us grow is our active presence in the local community. We make it a priority to attend and participate in community events, where we get to meet our patients face-to-face, learn about their lifestyles, and understand what truly matters to them. These interactions allow us to connect beyond the treatment room and foster trust and loyalty over time.
On top of that, we’re deeply committed to staying at the forefront of medical aesthetics through ongoing education. Each year, we attend 3 to 4 advanced training sessions and workshops, investing over $20,000 in continuing medical education. This dedication ensures we’re always up to date on the latest techniques, safety protocols, and innovations — which translates directly to better, safer, and more effective care for our patients.
By combining community involvement with continuous learning, we’ve been able to build a reputation as trusted, knowledgeable providers who truly care about their patients and the results they deliver.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.niksmedicalspa.com
- Instagram: @niks_medical_spa
- Linkedin: Stephanie Garbaczewski and Erica Lettow
- Yelp: NIKS Medical Spa
- Other: TIK TOK: Niks-Medical-Spa
Image Credits
Annalisa Joy Photography