Meet our December 2022 TEI Alumni… Melanie Rodrigues
Hi everyone! My name is Melanie Rodrigues and I am the owner of New Skin YYC. You can find us on Instagram (newskinyyc), Facebook (@newskinyyc) and of course our website, www.newskinyyc.ca. We offer everything from custom facials, chemical peels and dermaplaning to laser hair removal, IPL photofacials and micro-needling.
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
Having a background in nursing I was always particularly interested in the skin’s amazing resiliency. The perfect storm of returning from an extended maternity leave and the pandemic gave me pause to consider my career priorities. The medical esthetics industry was a perfect fit! A balance of making people feel and look their best while still being focused on holistic health provided a fulfilling opportunity.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
New Skin YYC was incorporated in December of 2020 and first started accepting clients in February of 2021. In that short amount of time we have faced pandemic related shut downs, growth into a larger location and have been able to hire staff.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
Our biggest challenge has been remaining focused on the present while trying to grow. The training at The Esthetic Institute prepares you to offer so many different services that it can be easy to get caught up in adding the next thing. I’m realizing that this will be a permanent concern! Not that it’s a bad thing, but as one initiative is added successfully it only makes you that much more excited to kick off the next one. The key is understanding that you can’t put the “cart before the horse”….
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
As with any new business, visibility in the marketplace is very difficult to achieve. Our biggest mistake was assuming that the tried and tested methods of the past would translate into clients easily. This became a lesson in understanding how to stand apart from the crowd and ensure that any funds used in marketing or publicity are used efficiently (I’m looking at you Google Ads!). Better yet finding ways for natural growth in the space last much longer.
How much time do you spend working on your business each day/week? How do you prioritize work-life balance if you are self-employed?
Creating something out of nothing is a full time job! The initial stages of creating New Skin YYC meant no downtime and a definite tilt to the work life balance scale. I think that initial effort was key to getting the business to a stable point where I have now reduced my daily hours and am able to enjoy raising my two girls while growing the business. That being said, the business is my passion and its easy for all things skin and esthetics to be on my mind outside of the clinic.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting in a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
My advice to anyone considering a career in the esthetics industry would be to jump in and take any course that sparks interest. Knowledge is power! From my experience I found amazing opportunity in specific skills and classes that weren’t my original primary focus. You can only truly understand something through experience.
How did your training at TEI impact, influence or inspire you to succeed in business? Are you glad that you made the choice to do your training at TEI? Are there any special memories, moments or people of influence who made a difference in your education at TEI.
Going to The Esthetic Institute was an amazing decision that allowed me to tie my previous nursing experience into an exciting opportunity. Not only did TEI provide me with the knowledge needed for the esthetics industry it also opened my eyes to the potential of starting my own business. Courses were thorough, direct and hands on. Every instructor made sure that you were confident and capable by the end of their course.
I hold a special place in my heart for my Laser instructor Tamara. She was experienced, knowledgeable and above all a strong woman! She taught us to do good in the industry by supporting one another and reminding us that “there are enough bodies for everyone”. Tamara sees the potential in every student and treats them as her equal. Her lessons will stay with me for my entire career.
Thanks to everyone at TEI you have done more for me then you’ll ever know.
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our November 2022 TEI Alumni… Urooj Fouad
Hello, I'm Urooj Fouad, Lead international Educator/instructor for the Esthetic Institute and Traning Center. I'm a CIDESCO Certified Beauty Therapist and Clinical Esthetician and I practice in medical clinics along side doctors across Calgary. Upon completing my CIDESCO diploma I decided to take clinical program and that was the best decision I have made for my career.
I do everything clinical from lasers/IPL to body contouring to customized 3D facials. Onyfix nail correction treatment is another specialized treatment I offer in my clinics.
IG: @uroojdermacare Website: www.urooj-dermacare.com
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
Clinical Esthetics was always something I wanted to do (I know it sound cliche) but this field is so rewarding as well as trendy and in demand for a long time and it will only grow larger and advanced over the 2 last decades.
However, it has been a huge change from my past experiences as a mother and homemaker for many years. Coming to this field is like a dream come true for me.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
I have been practicing from the day I stepped out as a student for CIDESCO. I feel like I have been so blessed with opportunities from the beginning of my career. Even with the pandemic, I was given the trust from this industry to practice in all the right directions and places, with supportive people and suitable surroundings. I'm truly grateful for the opportunities given to me every step of the way.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
I have plans, big plans. And I'm extremely determine to execute them. One of those plans is hosting an international platform for TEI and I and to take the school and my passion to next level. I know it's a huge project and will take time but I'm excited that it’s already half way there. When I started school, I wanted to pay back to school in some way for supporting my dream and this is how I will do it. (Fingers crossed)
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
Not so much a mistake, but I don't plan much before taking huge steps/plans and decisions in life. I learned over time that having to have huge elaborated plans without execution is just thoughts. For anything in life to happen is to jump in it with determination that you can do it and by taking initiative. When life presents to you itself with opportunities you should take them and make it the way you want it. Hard work will never go to waste. In the end either you succeed or you die satisfied that at least you tried.
How much time do you spend working on your business each day/week? How do you prioritize work-life balance if you are self-employed?
I'm lucky enough to make my own schedule at work most of the time. I try and work 4 days a week. Dedicating Friday’s for family, where I give every second of the day to my family. I cook and entertain at home mostly. On the weekends, I do online international consultations in Pakistan and Dubai.
I think if you really try and focus, you can balance between personal and professional lives. I'm huge on after care for my clients and I'm always answering their concerns on my professional social media platforms as well. By no means am I perfect, but every day I am to do my best. The motto I live by is “Passion gives you energy and strength!”
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting in a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
I would love to say from my own experience to believe in yourself. Practice every day. Learn every day. Learning has no time limit or age. Every treatment, every person and every product teaches you something new every day. Also, never stop upgrading your educational skills. This industry is so vast and technologically advanced that you can practically keep on learning all your life. Just keep growing!
How did your training at TEI impact, influence or inspire you to succeed in business? Are you glad that you made the choice to do your training at TEI? Are there any special memories, moments or people of influence who made a difference in your education at TEI.
My (late) father use to say this to me "Do what you love, and not love what you do."
When I've decided I want to go into Esthetics I searched for so many schools before discovering TEI and CIDESCO program. It was my dream program. I always envisioned myself practicing internationally and it provided exactly that- my passport to practice globally. I was at that time living 6 hours away from Calgary, but still wanted to check it out (best decision ever!).
The moment I met Vanessa (the CEO of The Esthetic Institute) I felt she was like a supportive friend. She is a positive, helpful, strong woman. I admire her professionalism and respect her dedication for her work. I hope our partnership will last forever!
Although TEI went through pandemic and faced challenges like all other businesses, they came out even more polished, organized and disciplined. TEI, in my opinion is the kind of organization that sets standards for this industry for years to come.
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our October 2022 TEI Alumni… Brandee Vermeulen
Hello, my name is Brandee Vermeulen and I own Glow Studio Spa, located in Olds, Alberta. You can follow me on instagram @glowstudiospa or check out my website atwww.glowstudiospa.com. I am a certified facial therapist with training in advanced aesthetic services such as dermaplaning, micro-needling, BB glow, teeth whitening, and lash lifts/tints.
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
I have always been interested in all things beauty related. I worked at three very popular cosmetic companies for over ten years, then as a freelance makeup artist for six years. After having my son, I needed a change from working weekends in the summer. As I already had a make-up background, I wanted to learn more about the skin. It seemed like a natural fit and your makeup will only look as good as your skin looks underneath.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
Unfortunately, my business got out to a rocky start. In March 2020 I was in the last week of my facial therapist classes when that weekend Covid shut everything down. All my future courses were put on hold and shutdowns prevented me from opening up. Eventually, when restrictions lifted, I was able to continue my education and finally open. It has been 2 1/2 years now that Glow Studio Spa has been in business. I started off with a studio in my home, and am now located in a local business in Olds.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
My biggest challenge is educating clients on the importance of being patient to see results. Change takes time, and commitment. It is not a one-and-done process. Achieving great end results will take more than one or two visits and requires home care as well. Teaching clients the importance of a good regular skincare regime to do in-between appointments can be challenging.
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
When I first enrolled in classes, I signed up for everything all at once. With the onset of Covid restrictions, a lot of my courses were postponed which actually ended up being a blessing in disguise. This allowed me to take more time to master one area at a time, and gain confidence with performing the treatment. It is easy to get overwhelmed with all of the procedures, terminology, and ingredients, so mastering one at a time has really been helpful for me.
How much time do you spend working on your business each day/week? How do you prioritize work-life balance if you are self-employed?
This is something I am still struggling to balance. Up until this summer, I have been working Monday - Fridaywhenever someone needs me to. I do not have set hours and struggle to say no when someone wants to book in. On the days that I am not in the studio I work on running my own social media, as well as making sure I have stock for all my treatments.
This summer I decided to slow down a bit and spend more time balancing out my time at the studio versus my time at home being a wife/mother. I am now trying to only work three days a week, and only one evening a week. I try to be accommodating when possible though because I do truly love my job and hate saying no to any bookings.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting in a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
Invest in good education. I see so many ones who offer aesthetic services with no skin care background or knowledge. Just because you can buy products or equipment online doesn’t mean you should, or that you are trained to use them properly. The skin is such a complex organ that I could not imagine doing some of the advanced treatments based on watching a YouTube video or someone teaching me who has no skin care background. I so appreciate knowing the science of skin and how it works and reacts. Also, what can go wrong and which skin types aren’t eligible for certain procedures.
How did your training at TEI impact, influence or inspire you to succeed in business? Are you glad that you made the choice to do your training at TEI? Are there any special memories, moments or people of influence who made a difference in your education at TEI.
I am so thankful I ended up at The Esthetic Institute. To be honest I only looked up two schools and the reason I chose The Esthetic Institute was because the dates lined up. But it ended up being the absolute right fit for me. I originally only wanted to enrol in derma needling but the facial therapist course was a prerequisite so I ended up having to take that as well. Well, I am so happy I did because I could not imagine doing some of these advanced courses without having the skin care background that I gained prior. I also learned so much in the facial therapist course in regards to the skin that I did end up offering facials, -which ended up being my busiest service.
I love all the support I have received from The Esthetic Institute during my classes and afterwards. I always feel confident that if I have any questions regarding products, procedures, or training, that I can call/message and receive answers. It has also been very helpful to have The Beauty Depot closely associated with the The Esthetic Institute as well, so that I am able to get all my supplies and equipment I have been trained on.
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our September 2022 TEI Alumni… Kassidy Marchuk
Hello, friends! My name is Kassidy Marchuk, and I’m a graduate of the Clinical Esthetics & CIDESCO Business and the Spa Management Diplomas!
I’m from Lethbridge, Alberta (a couple hours south of Calgary), a mama and partner to my best friend, and I’m currently employed at a local business, Prim Health & Beauty. We offer literally all the things. From hair, nails and esthetics, to medical esthetics, laser treatments and injectables. In this role I currently offer: skin consultations, medical facials, dermaplaning, dermal infusion, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and body sugaring.
If you want to follow along:
@skinxkass
@primhealthandbeauty
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
Honestly, at first - just as a side hustle. I started with eyelashes in 2015. Microblading shortly after. As a mom of a little guy, I knew I didn’t have time for a 2-4 year program, or the financial investment that it would require. And then I eventually got tired of wondering what I should “do with my life.” So, I just took a leap and applied to the clinical esthetics program at TEI. Best decision I’ve made. I had no idea how passionate I would become about this industry and I am so grateful for that.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
Prim was founded back in December 2010. I started working with the team late last year (2021) and officially started taking clients at the start of this year.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
This industry, for a multitude of reasons, can be a really challenging one. I think that recognizing and believing that I had a place within it, to be fully myself, was probably the most difficult. Doubt can definitely try to creep in, you just can’t let it.
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
SO. MANY. MISTAKES. Haha! ALL of them turned into lessons for sure. I am struggling to think of a specific example here.
I think we’re always going to make mistakes. But if we can be humble enough to accept that but still believe in ourselves, it’s easy to use every mistake as an opportunity. During my facials training, I remember Betty Ann mentioning that at the end of each treatment, she used to ask her client(s) if there was anything she could improve on to make their next experience more enjoyable. I took a lot from that and I now ask my clients the same thing. But what I liked most was the posture she held when asking that question. Open to criticism or critique, but with the mindset of growth and opportunity, not resistance or shame.
How much time do you spend working on your business each day/week? How do you prioritize work-life balance if you are self-employed?
I love my job. Like, I really love it. I have my regularly scheduled hours that I work at Prim each week, and then I almost always end up staying later (and showing up early) to chat with the girls!
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting in a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
I think the best piece of advice I can offer is just encouragement to always believe in yourself and show up authentically. I think this industry offers a lot things, but authenticity may be something it lacks. By showing up as yourself, you give other people permission to do the same. Prioritize making connections/networking, learning as much as possible at every opportunity, be open to growth, utilize your resources (textbooks, notes, teachers, fellow estheticians), and try to enjoy the process!
How did your training at TEI impact, influence or inspire you to succeed in business? Are you glad that you made the choice to do your training at TEI? Are there any special memories, moments or people of influence who made a difference in your education at TEI.
Overall, I had a really great experience at TEI. I’ve taken a handful of courses through them before committing to either diploma, and my experience was always a good one. I’m glad I chose TEI. They’re reputable, committed to industry growth and improvement, accommodating and kind - and they’ve been there for me with questions and concerns even after I finished my diploma. I had SO many special moments at TEI. Between teachers/staff pouring into me, friendships I made with fellow estheticians and the overall experience of each class, it’s hard to really pick just one to share!
However, during my Laser Training with Tamara and Nadia, I spent nearly three weeks, back to back with the same fellow students and grew really close to all of them. It was a tearful goodbye to say the least. I really love all the staff at TEI but I will share just a few to keep it short!
Vanessa was the first voice I heard from TEI. Ya’ll will recognize it from anywhere when you starting calling the school! Not only was Vanessa tremendously kind and considerate as she helped me navigate and map out my education at TEI, but she’s become someone I look up to and really admire. I respect the career she’s made for herself as a business woman and the impact she’s making in this industry.
Emily (at the front desk) and Andreea (student advisor) were the most helpful and accommodating - especially when I was losing my marbles experiencing a mid diploma meltdown. Emily always offered a smile and kind words the second I walked in, and Andreea helped me find a solution to my problems every time. Actually, Andreea continues to be bombarded with questions from me, even now.
Tamara and Nadia have stolen my heart 100000%. I could write a book about how much I love them. Nadia is Tamara’s (laser teacher) assistant during the practical portion of the training. This can also be the most nerve racking, especially when it comes to working with the lasers. I really appreciated how kind and gentle she was throughout, and I sincerely loved getting to know her during that time.
Tamara. Where do I start. She is brilliant you guys. I would retake her classes just to absorb her experience and information. She had a representative come in from a well known laser company to give us (the students) an opportunity to ask questions and network, etc. A fellow student asked this rep a question regarding the mechanics of the machine itself. He had a great response but unfortunately was unable to provide an answer to that question and said he would look into it. I distinctly remember Tamara humbly speaking up to answer the question herself, and she was right. I was eerily proud. You can tell that Tamara is tremendously passionate about this industry and the impact it can make on peoples lives. She gave this career a deeper meaning for me by sharing her journey and experiences within it. I lucked out having her for a teacher.
Patricia (Sugaring & Derma Needling instructor) is an absolute gem. One of a kind. She can walk (or float, I swear) into the room and you just feel more at peace by her being there. Ask anyone! I love her passion, teaching style and the way she moves through life. I didn’t realize then, but having worked for a while now, and having talked to other estheticians, I see now that she gave A LOT of amazing advice, tips & tricks that I assumed was just part of the curriculum. It was actually above and beyond that. Getting to hear the things she learned in her years in the industry has allowed me to bypass some of those roadblocks and navigate treatments with increased ease and confidence.
I want to mention that I could have chosen a school in the town I live in, but I chose to drive back and forth to Calgary instead because it was important to me I went to The Esthetic Institute to pursue my career in this industry.
To wrap it up, I am so grateful for my time @ TEI and the opportunity it’s given me to work in this industry. I sincerely love what I do for so many reasons that it is EASY to encourage anyone interested to pursue it. Worth it, do it, you won’t regret it. And feel free to reach out to me on IG if you have any questions along the way!
With love,
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our August 2022 TEI Alumni… Robyn & Danielle
Hello, we are Robyn and Danielle, co-owners of RnD Skin Co.
We are both certified medical aestheticians that offer custom facials, a variety of chemical peels, dermaplaning, Bela MD+, and collagen induction therapy.
Danielle is also a certified laser technician and offers laser hair removal, laser genesis, IPL and vein therapy.
IG: rndskinco, FB @rndskinco
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
We are both motivated entrepreneurs and have a close-knit family, who better to start a business with than our sister?! Coming from a family of health care and wellness, we have always been driven towards science, wellness, beauty, and health. We embrace each person’s natural beauty and each individual’s unique features. We want everyone to look and feel their best in their own skin and to love their skin! If our client’s confidence has been affected due to their skin concerns, then we want to help change that! Skincare is such a big passion of ours and we love to educate and work with our clients to achieve their skin goals and beautiful healthy skin. This is such a rewarding job and we have been so lucky to build such strong relationships with our clients – this is honestly such a dream!
It was a big change for the both of us! Danielle has a background in business management, sales, business development and customer service. She also has a minor in entrepreneurship. Robyn's background has been in health care as a Registered Nurse.
With Robyn’s background as a RN, she has always loved caring for her patients, collaborating with them and making a positive impact on their hospital experience. You also can’t be interested in becoming a nurse if you don’t love science and caring for others – this goes hand in hand with aesthetics! That being said, starting a business was a huge learning curve for Robyn, so having her sister Danielle in her corner was a big help. Danielle on the other hand has always tried to find a way to bring her business background and passion for people together. This often resulted in business relationship type careers. Danielle always knew she wanted to have her own business that encompassed as many of her passions as possible! Bringing both of our professional backgrounds and passions together has offered a great sense of purpose and passion in our career. Being small business owners allows us to bring value and individualized care to each of our clients. They say if you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life... we couldn't agree more!
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
We opened our doors in January 2021! People said that we were crazy, but we would not have had it any other way.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
I would say the biggest challenge thus far has been learning how to run our own business, how to distinguish ourselves from others in the industry and how to find a healthy life balance. It isn’t a job that you can just “leave at work” like many of us are used to. It takes a lot of dedication, sacrifice and many hours of hard work. Starting a business in any industry isn't easy and we have learnt a lot throughout the process. We are still learning and producing new and better ways of doing things! We rely on each other and support each other every day, leveraging each other’s strengths and sharing new learnings to move our goals forward.
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
Throughout this pandemic, supply chain shortages have been challenging and a big learning experience for us. There was an instance in the heat of the pandemic where we ran out of some skincare products and supplies. When we went to place an order, we then found out that the distributors were out of stock/on backorder and that we would have a delay in receiving the items/products. The lesson we took from this experience was to not purchase supplies/products at the time of needing them, but instead to order them proactively and in anticipation that there is no guarantee, and it may take some time to receive them. We now have an inventory tracking sheet for our space so that we are always staying on top of our inventory before it becomes an issue!
How much time do you spend working on your business each day/week? How do you prioritize work-life balance if you are self-employed?
Achieving work-life balance is an ongoing challenge, as the business is still in its early stages of growth. When we are not in the treatment room with clients, we are working on all the behind-the-scenes of the business.. and there is a lot of it lol. When you own your own business there aren't set hours and there is always something that needs to be done. Being a small business of only two people, we wear a lot of hats, ie. Marketing manager, content creator, administration, receptionist, customer service, etc. Work-life balance is very important for us, and we strive to prioritize our to-do lists, remain organized during our day, to be productive when we are at work, and try to be as present as possible in our at-home life.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting in a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
If you believe in yourself, are ready to work hard, and have a passion for the industry, its role and client relationships, then anything is possible! It’s important for you to surround yourself with supportive and like-minded individuals, and to ask for help when you need it. Be kind to yourself because when it comes to starting a business, you are going to make mistakes and that is okay. As much as possible, try to let go of what you can’t control and take each mistake as a learning opportunity. Beyond that, everything comes back to your clients and the quality and value you deliver in each and every treatment! Your clients must trust you and feel safe with you when they enter your treatment space. If you can do that, they will come back! Continued education and becoming skilled and confident in your trade are essential for success and what produces results and loyal happy clients.
How did your training at TEI impact, influence or inspire you to succeed in business? Are you glad that you made the choice to do your training at TEI? Are there any special memories, moments or people of influence who made a difference in your education at TEI.
Our training at TEI is what set us up to start our business. The quality in their education and training, the educators, and their support both during the education and after, and the resources available all made such a big difference. TEI's standards for health and safety, client care and business practices are all incredible and give you the confidence post education. As for people of influence... Betty Ann, thank you for sharing all your knowledge and skill with us. Your passion for the industry and love for each client that lays on your table inspired us to be the very best we could for each one of our clients. Tamara, your support then and now means more to us than you could ever know. Your passion for the industry and what is possible, and your love for helping others no matter what their skin concern is, is exactly what we hope to offer our clients every day. We never expected that our instructor would become an ongoing supporter and mentor to us. Thank you both for believing in us from the very beginning and your continued love and support whenever we need it. We hope we have made you both proud!
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our July 2022 TEI Alumi… MJ De Guzman
My name is MJ De Guzman. I am a 30-year-old Filipinaborn & raised in Calgary, AB & the proud owner, CEO & Clinical Esthetician of Esthetically DG (IG:@estheticallydg) offering a wide range of Clinical Esthetics services, such as Laser, Facials, Lashes & PMU services. Also, now a new proud Instructor Assistan at TEI.
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
Growing up, I always saw salons & spas as a whole new magical world each time I entered one. It started off with my love for makeup in my high school years that grew into becoming a certified Makeup Artist back in 2012. However, also having a love for Technology, that same year I decided to complete my diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology majoring in Design & Automation. After years, having experience in the oil & gas industry & working as a designer for a drilling company, I still was not completely happy. I saw myself still choosing to work in the Esthetics industry where my yearning for the industry continued to grow which finally gave me the courage to change my career and take a chance on officially becoming an Esthetician in 2019.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
Esthetically DG started that very same year (2019) shortly after completing my Lash Extensions course, which grew into the empire that it is today. It has now been 3 years since the day I decided to make this happen. Starting off in a small room in my home part-time, while still working for other employers in the same industry to now a full-time studio operating out of Lavoom Salon along Centre Street South in the Chinook area.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
My biggest challenge that I face and still struggle with today is standing my ground when it comes to my worth, considering the amount of competition that there is in this industry. Also, accepting the fact that no matter how much love and passion you put into your work, accepting that not everyone is for you is completely okay. Those that do not want to support you are not meant to be a part of your journey because the universe brings you more than what you deserve and ever expected it to be.
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
The #1 mistake that I have learned from is giving other people the opportunity to dictate what you should and shouldn’t do for the success of your own business. If you have a true burning fire in your passion, you would know that no one else will make it happen but yourself and when you take the full risk and put your full trust in your own abilities and capabilities that is where you will see all your hard work.
How much time do you spend working on your business each day/week? How do you prioritize work-life balance if you are self-employed?
Every week I am in the studio working on clients 6 days a week where I also prioritize in between posting on my social media platforms. Working together with my marketing team, I am always thinking of new ways to grow my services through education, promotions, and content on all my platforms. Being self-employed, I have invested my whole body, mind, and soul into my business and truly love the freedom I have to show my clients/audience more than just what the meaning behind esthetics is to me. When I am not working, I always prioritize quality time, traveling, and eating good food with my family; I am learning to unplug myself from my phone at specific times of the day and night. I value being present and at the moment while enjoying time with my loved ones.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting in a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
My advice to those who want to start in the Esthetics Industry is to simply find true deep meaning in why you want to be in this industry. How do you look at other Estheticians? Are they your competition or are they your alliance? This industry continues to grow every single day and I truly believe that Estheticians should never be competing against each other simply because each and every Esthetician has a skill and talent that we all can learn from. No one is better than anyone simply because no Esthetician is exactly the same, we all have our strengths and weaknesses and it’s important that we can learn from one another.
How did your training at TEI impact, influence or inspire you to succeed in business? Are you glad that you made the choice to do your training at TEI? Are there any special memories, moments or people of influence who made a difference in your education at TEI.
Choosing to train at TEI was the absolute BEST decision I ever made with any form of education I ever went through in my life. Every part of TEI made me into the Clinical Esthetician and business owner that I now am today. The amazing people that I had met in my journey since the first day I ever stepped into TEI completely changed my life. They aren’t just there for your education, they are there to make you into the best person you can be in this industry. The amount of love and support I have received at TEI has been nothing but phenomenal. I am so honored and blessed to have trained here and to now have been given the amazing opportunity to be a part of this amazing family. Thank you TEI, I am so blessed to be here and to be a part of your empire. I look forward to more growth, opportunities and more ventures together.
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our June 2022 TEI Alumni… Harmony Gramlich
My name is Harmony Gramlich. I’m the creator and owner of Winter Haven Advanced Esthetics Ltd. In Chauvin, Alberta. You can find me on Instagram at @winterhaven.advancedesthetics, Facebook by Winter Haven Advanced Esthetics Ltd. or check out the website, www.winterhavenesthetics.com.
I offer a range of services, including: Relaxation Facials, Custom/Treatment Facials, Youth Treatments, Chemical Peels Level I and II, Diamond Microdermabrasion, RMD: Structural Remodeling, Microneedling, Dermaplaning, Body Treatments, Universal Contour Wrap, and most recently Laser Hair Removal, Laser Genesis, Laser Vascular Treatments and IPL Photorejuventation.
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
I’m a Registered Nurse and had always had a strong interest in Dermatology. I live in a very rural area where there are little to no truly advanced skincare services and treatments available from where I live unless you travel 35 minutes to 3 hours away. I found it frustrating about the lack of accessibility for these services and wanted to be able to provide skincare therapy and treat skin conditions of the face and body.
I wouldn’t say it’s a huge change from being a Registered Nurse; providing a high standard of care and working with people to help them heal is what I’ve been trained to do and have done for all of my professional life. Starting a business from scratch? Now that was a big change!
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
I’ve officially been open as of today for just over one year (by opening accounts), my first-day taking clients was July 15, 2021- 9 months in open business. I’ve been extremely lucky for the amount of support from all the members in and around my community.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
My biggest challenges are patience, not getting overly attached to my clients and setting boundaries with myself. When people are living in pain or are self-conscious because of a condition or otherwise, it truly hurts my heart. The same as it does in my Nursing practice because here, these are closer members of my community and I get to follow people through their journey so closely. We learn about each other, celebrate triumphs and work through the tricky phases and become a really bonded team. I’m the most impatient person I know, and skincare is. A. Process. The second I touch your skin I want those concerns gone, and of course, I know that is not how it works at all! When I remind clients to trust the process I’m truly telling myself that as well.
What’s hard about boundaries for me is I use my spare time to obsessively read through medical journals to try to see what solutions might be out there for my clients. I’m built to find current practices and find ways to better help my clients so it’s a hard switch to turn off!
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
Something I learned early was the difference between working in Medicine versus the Beauty Industry. In Medicine you only work as a team, you lean on each other regardless of specialty all with the focus of helping your client. The Beauty Industry is competitive! I still reach out to people doing what I do because I truly believe there is no better gift to a community than multiple people being skilled in one area. We all have different views, styles and ways of treating so it’s worth it to be connected. I’ve learned to be patient and observant of the people reaching out to be in your business circle. Some are there to help/work with you, some may be there to use you.
How much time do you spend working on your business each day/week? How do you prioritize work-life balance if you are self-employed?
Oh wow… I live and breathe this business! I work as an RN three days a week. Monday and Tuesday I’m Winter Haven from 9am-9pm, Wednesday to Friday I work as an RN from 8:15 am-4:30pm and will see Skin clients after I get home from 5:30pm-9pm. Any spare time I’m working on social media, bookings, reviewing the website, reviewing treatments and inquiries. Currently, I’m working on my own company protocols for a skincare treatment plan! There was a long time I was adding in courses and becoming certified in additional Chemical Peels and another skincare lines, as well as preparing for the arrival of my Cutera Xeo Laser.
I’ve learned that Friday at 9pm to Monday Morning at 7am I need to pause. All my clients have direct contact with me if they need, but I need to learn to let it go for the weekend. I’ve also started blocking off an evening every 2 weeks to go and see my parents. Loved ones are a priority for me, so I’m working to make time for them. June I’ll be scaling back in evening hours.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting in a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
Don’t wait! Don’t talk yourself out of it if this is what you believe you are meant to do. Just make the call, ask the questions, take your first step and get going. I started a business during a pandemic. You. Can. Do it. Once you start doing it, keep going! It only gets better.
How did your training at TEI impact, influence or inspire you to succeed in business? Are you glad that you made the choice to do your training at TEI? Are there any special memories, moments or people of influence who made a difference in your education at TEI.
I reviewed countless Esthetic programs, honestly from coast to coast in Canada. If reading any of this has shown you anything, it’s that I look deep into things and I’m willing to travel to get an excellent education that I believe in. I was about four months into my search going back and forth on different programs, and The Esthetic Institute in Calgary is one I repeatedly came back to. I’ve suggested it to countless people since.
I’ll never forget it, I was working a night shift and I sent a message asking for more information on the Advanced Clinical Diploma Program at TEI. The next morning, Vanessa called me and we had the most perfect conversation we could’ve had-I was enrolled and started my Diploma Program the next month. I was driving 5 hours from home to go to school in Calgary, working in Red Deer Hospital all the while coming up with the plan to bring these services home to Chauvin.
Without The Esthetic Institute, I wouldn’t be where I am today. You are getting a world-class education and access to learning from brilliant minds who truly care about the industry and you. Not only are they there to help you succeed during your courses or program, but I reach out to my instructors for advice- they are my go-to when I can’t find an answer I’m looking for and they are always ready to help.
I cannot truly thank everyone enough who has been part of this with me. If it wasn’t for Vanessa for calling, Andreea for helping me through countless, countless emails, every single instructor (I remember you all!), my family for supporting and housing me while living out of a bag, Conner for endless encouragement, friends letting me practice and clients for keeping me going, I wouldn’t be here! Believe me when I say, The Esthetic Institute is where you need to start.