We were lucky to catch up with Victoria Simon recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Victoria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. 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.
The decision to establish Contourology happened during the pandemic and it was not one I took lightly. I had a significant background in the medical beauty and health industry but had temporarily stepped away due to maternity leave and concerns about the uncertainty brought on by the pandemic. I was apprehensive about re-entering the field, given the unpredictability of lockdowns and the challenges many businesses in the beauty industry were facing.
During my time off, I sought professional advice on career orientation, hoping to explore other possibilities. However, through the guidance of a professional adviser, I had a significant realization: my passion lies solely within the beauty industry. Despite the risks, I was drawn back to this field because I genuinely love what I do and couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else.
The timing, strangely enough, turned out to be in my favor. Many beauty medical spas in my area had unfortunately closed their doors during those challenging times, leaving a surplus of vacant spaces available for rent. Seeing this as an opportunity, I decided to take the leap and establish Contourology. It was a risk, no doubt, but it felt like the right moment, and I was determined to make it work.
Fast forward to today, and I can confidently say that it was the right decision. Contourology has not only survived but thrived. We’ve filled a void in our community, offering specialized beauty and health services that have resonated with our clients. It’s a testament to the resilience and adaptability that this journey has demanded.
I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from my team, our clients, and the community. It’s a reminder that sometimes, even during the most challenging times, taking calculated risks based on passion and expertise can lead to incredible opportunities and success. Contourology is a testament to that belief, and I couldn’t be happier with the way things have turned out.”
Indeed, there were a couple of significant challenges we encountered during the establishment of Contourology. The first notable challenge was finding qualified employees. At that time, government assistance programs were providing financial support to many individuals, making it challenging to attract talent to join our team. It was a situation where the allure of guaranteed income often outweighed the opportunity to work with us.
The second challenge revolved around addressing the concerns of potential clients. Many people were understandably apprehensive about coming inside and getting one-on-one treatments with our technicians due to the lingering fears surrounding COVID-19. The safety and well-being of our clients were of paramount importance to us, and we had to implement stringent health and safety measures to reassure them.
We invested in thorough staff training to ensure our technicians not only provided top-notch treatments but also followed rigorous hygiene protocols. This helped us create a safe and comfortable environment for our clients.
Overcoming these challenges required a combination of perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and service quality. It was a learning experience that reinforced our dedication to our mission and the value we bring to our clients. Today, I’m proud to say that Contourology has not only met these challenges but has also continued to grow and thrive in the beauty and health industry.
I have a piece of advice that I believe is absolutely crucial for anyone considering starting their own practice, especially in the beauty and health industry: ensure you have some extra financial resources available.
In the early days of Contourology, I made the decision to manage everything on my own. While it was a brave endeavor, it also led to substantial stress and an overwhelming workload, especially because I was also caring for my two young children. I found myself working seven days a week, and it took a toll on both my personal life and my well-being.
The primary reason behind this was a lack of financial resources to invest in crucial aspects of the business, such as advertising and hiring additional staff. I essentially became the sole operator, trying to do it all myself.
My advice to others embarking on a similar journey is to have a financial safety net in place. Having the resources to invest in advertising, hire competent employees, and take some of the weight off your shoulders can make a world of difference. It not only eases the stress but also allows you to focus on what you do best – providing excellent services and growing your practice.
Remember that building a successful business takes time and effort, and it’s essential to strike a balance between work and personal life. Having the financial means to support your business’s growth and sustain your own well-being can be the key to long-term success.”
This advice emphasizes the importance of financial planning and resource allocation when starting a new business, particularly in a demanding industry like beauty and health.
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.
About Me – Victoria, Owner of Contourology:
I’m Victoria, and my journey into the beauty and health industry has been marked by dedication and expertise. Born in Ukraine and shaped by my experiences in different parts of the world, I bring a unique perspective to the realm of beauty and wellness.
My Background:
My career path has taken me through the corridors of esteemed medical companies, where I’ve gathered invaluable experience and insights. Originally hailing from Ukraine, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and education in the beauty industry in Israel. The multicultural influences and diverse training I received have enriched my understanding of the intricate connections between medical advancements and beauty enhancements.
Contourology’s Mission:
Contourology is the culmination of my passion for elevating beauty and well-being. Our spa is committed to offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. From body sculpting and fat reduction to skin tightening and more, Contourology is dedicated to enhancing your appearance and boosting your overall confidence.
The Problems We Solve:
In an industry often characterized by uncertainties and hesitations, Contourology aims to be the beacon of trustworthiness. We understand the challenges of finding a reliable beauty and health provider, especially in times of uncertainty. Additionally, we empathize with the concerns surrounding health and safety. At Contourology, we strive to alleviate these worries through personalized, safe, and effective treatments.
What Sets Us Apart:
What truly sets Contourology apart is our unwavering commitment to our clients’ well-being and satisfaction. We’ve meticulously curated an environment where luxury converges with accessibility, ensuring each treatment surpasses expectations. Our team blends expertise with care, creating an experience that transcends ordinary spa visits.
Pride and Ambition:
I take immense pride in the journey we’ve undertaken at Contourology and the vibrant community we’ve cultivated. It’s a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication and the trust our clients place in us.
What We Want You to Know:
For potential clients and supporters, I want you to recognize that Contourology is more than just a spa; it’s a commitment to your beauty, health, and happiness. We extend our warm welcome to everyone seeking expert guidance, luxurious experiences, and exceptional results. With a history of dedication to the medical beauty field, international influences, and a wide range of services including body sculpting, fat reduction, skin tightening, and more, Contourology is poised to transform your beauty and wellness journey.
Thank you for considering Contourology as your destination for transformative beauty and health services. We look forward to welcoming you into our world of personalized care and excellence.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Looking back on my journey, the question of whether I would choose the same profession or specialty is an interesting one. When I was a child, I dreamt of becoming an esthetician, deeply fascinated by the world of beauty and wellness. However, I grew up in a different time and place—a Soviet communist country—where the prevailing narrative emphasized the pursuit of traditional, financially stable careers.
Under the guidance of my parents and societal expectations, I spent a decade of my life studying and working in a profession that didn’t align with my true passions. It was a period marked by dedication but also a sense of unfulfillment.
In my late twenties, I reached a pivotal moment where I made a life-altering decision—to break away from convention and pursue what I was truly passionate about: esthetics and the world of beauty and wellness. This transition wasn’t easy, and it came with its own set of challenges. But it also brought an immense sense of fulfillment and purpose that I had longed for.
So, to answer the question, if I could go back, I would choose the path I am on today without hesitation. It’s a journey that has allowed me to follow my heart, embrace my true calling, and build Contourology—a place where I can share my passion with others and make a positive impact on their lives. This choice has brought me immense happiness and a profound sense of purpose, and I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
1. A Strong Team: Building and maintaining a skilled and compassionate team is paramount. Clients don’t just come for treatments; they seek a personal connection and a sense of trust. A good team not only delivers exceptional services but also creates an environment of warmth and comfort. It’s the human connection that often leaves a lasting impression and keeps clients coming back.
2. Staying Current with Technology: The beauty industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. Staying up-to-date with these advancements is crucial. Clients seek out the latest and most effective treatments, so having the knowledge and tools to offer them sets you apart. Continuous education and investment in cutting-edge technologies keep your services relevant and in demand.
3. Providing Extra Comfort: Beyond the treatments themselves, going the extra mile to ensure clients’ comfort is a game-changer. Little touches like convenient parking, thoughtful gifts, or complimentary treatments can elevate the overall experience. It’s these small gestures that demonstrate your commitment to client satisfaction and make them feel truly valued.
In the beauty and wellness industry, success is not solely about technical expertise; it’s about building relationships, embracing innovation, and creating an environment where clients feel pampered and cared for. These three elements, a dedicated team, technological awareness, and an unwavering focus on client comfort, have been instrumental in the success of Contourology.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.contourologyla.com
- Instagram: @contourology
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/contourologyla
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@contourologyspa/playlists
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/contourology-los-angeles
Image Credits
all mine