Meet our March TEI Alumni… Jody Nakoneshny!
My name is Jody Nakoneshny. I currently own two day spas East of Calgary, Lakeshore Spa and Sagestone Day Spa. Find us on Instagram @thelakeshore and @sagestonedayspa.
We offer a wide range of spa services such as massage therapy, spa Aveda Facials, waxing, sugaring, threading and body wraps. Lakeshore is known for its waxing services, Facials and the Lakeshore spa Pedicure. Sagestone has become a destination because of our “Floating Zero-Gravity Pedicure” and our Sage & Stone Ayurvedic Spa Facial.
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
I was drawn to the Esthetic industry back in 1998 shortly after our son was born when I expressed interest in learning how to do artificial nails. Over the next decade I added additional services including advanced pedicures, facials and spray tanning. Coming from a back ground of Banking and Credit and collections, it was a complete about face into something that allowed me to work on my own and open up my creativity and desire to make others feel better about themselves.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
After operating a beautiful home spa for nine years, Lakeshore Spa opened its doors in September of 2012 and the unique vintage themed Sagestone Dayspa opened in April 2022.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
The two biggest challenges I have faced were the ever changing economic landscape and the daunting task of building an excellent spa team that wanted to journey along with me. Our economy over the past 8-9 years has presented challenges with constant rising costs and consumers pulling back their discretionary spending. Each plateau forces you to relearn and pivot.
Building a team is ongoing, however, I have been very fortunate to have connected with some amazing young Estheticians and we have forged long term relationships at the Spa. The coming and going of staff is a static part of doing business and I have learned that not everyone is meant to be with you at every level of your entrepreneurial journey. My hope,however, is that I have added some accouterments for their own esthetic journey’s.
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
I will always look back and roll my eyes at some of the frivolous purchases I’ve made bringing new equipment into the spa believing it will be the next best greatest service we offer, from a Venus Freeze, Salt Chamber, fancy spray tan unit (you could only order their solution from the US and the costs were very high). I have learned to stick to what I’m good at, my bread and butter services. Only bring in what the customers want and do some deep dive research to understand your market before making any large financial purchases.
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 never shut my business work off, I am constantly seeking out new ideas, watching for new products, creating ads and content. I am fortunate that my children are grown so I can commit the additional time and not have to balance that lifestyle with work, although, I always make the time to spend with my husband for “date nights” and travel.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
The most valuable piece of advice I can share with someone who is considering this industry and someone who is new to the Industry is “plan & persevere”. Building a business, whether from home or a commercial retail space, takes time and a ton of work. Write a detailed business plan that includes an analysis on your target market, your competition, why your service offering is different, a detailed marketing plan, a growth plan and spend some time to understand what your costs actually are. I see many home businesses charging $40 for a 60 minute facial and if you break those costs down, guaranteed, they are making no money. There will be ups and downs throughout your career, use your experience for growth and learning and whatever Esthetic services you are doing, do them exceptionally well all of the time.
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.
The Esthetic Institute is my go to school for training and upgrading for myself and my staff, and I prefer to hire students from EI because I know the detail and quality of the teaching. I have met most of the educators there and they hold passion for the industry and it shows in their teaching style. I’ve known Vanessa, Silvia, Mike and Betty Ann for my entire career and it’s been an honor to watch their business grow and succeed into the empire it is now.
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our February TEI Alumni… Morgan Messenger!
My name is Morgan Messenger and I am currently a medical laser tech / esthetician, out of the beautiful Rejuvenation Dermatology as well as Calgary Vein and Laser. Currently I am doing a variety of laser treatments for all conditions and areas of the body. I do offer chemical peels in between my busy laser schedule.
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
I chose to indulge in this industry when my perfect skin did a turn around at the age of 26 and I was engulfed in cystic acne, from the top of my forehead all the way down to my neck. It was the most confidence suppressing thing I had ever gone through. I chose to get to the root of my own issue and use my personal experience as a way to help others that I could relate to. As I completed each course at TEI, I realized just how much I had fallen in love with lasers and the rest was history. Before I worked in my current position, I worked out of a tanning salon as a receptionist and spray tan technician…. What a jump from one end of the spectrum to the other.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
I have been employed with Rejuvenation Dermatology for 3 years and a year ago was asked to take over the laser department in Calgary Vein and laser which is owned by Rejuvenation. I am currently at Rejuvenation twice a week and CVL three times a week!
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
I think my biggest challenge was not sitting in the moment. I am a go-getter to the max and want to learn everything all at once so I was always looking for the next device I could get my hands on before knowing the previous device through and through. I feel as though this is not much of a challenge for me anymore as I am able to really sit and sponge every little detail of each device I work with to make sure I'm thorough and correct with my procedures.
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
Not a huge mistake but definitely an eye opener for me was learning what products to use with other safe procedures and products if that makes sense. I gratefully did this mistake to myself and not a patient, when applying a chemical peel to my face after having forgotten that I had used a very active at-home product that caused quite the reaction to my face.. It's actually laughable now but something I was able to learn from and take with me while treating my patients moving forward.
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?
When I first started as a part-time laser tech at Rejuvenation, I was only 3 days a week. This very quickly turned into a full time position where I was taking on much more than the role I had applied for. After a couple of years of gaining knowledge and experience, it did not go unnoticed that I was very good at what I do and was offered a position at Calgary Vein and Laser once a week where I would run the entire laser department alongside our doctors. To me, this once a week gig would not be enough to learn all of the things I really wanted to learn.
For the last 8 months I have worked 6 days a week and busted my butt to gain as much as I possibly could and recently have dropped back down to 5 days a week between the two clinics. I am a mom of 3 and the work / personal life balance was definitely not there. Realizing how burnt out I was becoming and how it was not only affecting myself, but my kids and husband as well, I was able to dial it back a notch and still be an amazing tech but also an amazing mom and wife.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
I say go for it!!! For myself, I get bored easily so this industry is a perfect balance of excitement and new adventures. It is always keeping me on my toes and keeping my mind sharp. There are always new devices and treatments to learn and it's always exciting to tailor a skin care and procedure plan to each one of my patients. The reward is always greater than the journey.
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 training was such an incredible and positive experience at TEI. I say that because I had taken a course through another school and unbeknown to myself, was very uneducated and had I not had the guidance of a fellow tech point me in the direction of TEI, I could have really done some damage to anyone I worked on. TEI program was so tediously put together with so much knowledge and detail that I don't think I could have learnt in a better environment. I am extremely grateful for the education and knowledge I received there and wouldn't go back and change a thing. My career has taken off so much more than I ever thought it would and I owe a huge part of that to my educators and staff at TEI.
Keep an eye out for our next TEI Alumni, it could be you!
Meet our January TEI Alumni… Kaya Sanders!
Hello, my name is Kaya Sanders and I am the proud owner of Bella Vida MediSpa. At Bella Vida, we specialize in a variety of esthetic services to help you look and feel your best. Our services include EmSculpt, body contouring, teeth whitening, and spray tans. Whether you are looking to sculpt and tone your body, brighten your smile, or achieve a sun-kissed glow, we have the services to help you achieve your goals. Our team of experienced estheticians is dedicated to providing upscale services in a relaxing and comfortable environment. We believe that self-care is essential for overall well-being, and we are here to help you look and feel your best. You can find us on instagram @bellavidamedispa or www.bellavidamedispa.ca
Why did you choose to get into the esthetic industry? Was it a big change from your previous industry?
I have always had a deep interest in skincare and beauty, even from a young age. When I was in high school and heavily involved in sports, I became more aware of the importance of taking care of my skin and overall appearance. This curiosity and passion for esthetics continued to grow over the years, leading me to explore various aspects of the beauty industry. I found myself constantly researching and learning about different skincare techniques, treatments, and products, which ultimately solidified my desire to pursue a career in esthetics.
Attending The Esthetic Institute was a turning point for me in my journey towards becoming a professional in the beauty industry. The comprehensive education and hands-on training I received at the institute allowed me to expand my knowledge and skills in esthetics. I was able to delve deeper into various treatments and techniques, gaining valuable experience and confidence in my abilities. This newfound expertise, coupled with my unwavering passion for skincare and beauty, made me realize that I was ready to take the next step and turn my dream into a reality.
Transitioning into the esthetic industry was not a big change for me, as it felt like a natural progression of my interests and aspirations. I have always been drawn to the world of esthetics and knew that I wanted to pursue a career that allowed me to help others feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. The beauty industry offers endless opportunities for creativity, growth, and self-expression, and I am grateful to be able to combine my passion for skincare with my desire to provide exceptional esthetic services to my clients at Bella Vida Medi Spa.
How long has your business been open or how long have you been employed?
Bella Vida Medi Spa has been open for 10 months, and it has been an incredible journey so far. In this relatively short span of time, we have had the opportunity to connect with and serve many wonderful clients, helping them achieve their esthetic goals and enhance their self-confidence. The support and positive feedback we have received from our clients have been truly inspiring, motivating us to continue providing upscale esthetic services and expanding our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our clientele. We are excited to see what the future holds for Bella Vida Medi Spa and look forward to many more years of providing exceptional esthetic services to our valued clients.
What was your biggest challenge; is it still an ongoing challenge?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced since opening Bella Vida Medi Spa is competing against larger, well-established companies in the beauty industry. These companies have been around for several years and have built strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base. While it can be daunting to compete with such giants, I have found that focusing on providing exceptional service, personalized care, and building strong relationships with my clients has been key in overcoming this challenge. Despite the competition, I am grateful to have a very strong and loyal clientele who appreciate the individualized attention and high-quality services we offer at Bella Vida Medi Spa. While the challenge of competing against larger companies may still be ongoing, I am confident that our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction will continue to set us apart in the industry.
What is a mistake that turned into a lesson?
One mistake that turned into a valuable lesson for Bella Vida Medi Spa was underestimating the importance of location for our customers. Initially, we were based in a downtown area where parking was limited and often challenging for clients. This oversight became evident when construction in the area further restricted access to parking spaces, causing inconvenience for our clients.
Realizing the impact of this on our business, we made the decision to relocate to a more accessible and convenient location with ample parking. This experience taught us the crucial role that location plays in customer satisfaction and the importance of considering all aspects of convenience and accessibility when establishing a business. The relocation not only addressed the parking issue but also improved the overall customer experience, highlighting the significance of making strategic decisions that prioritize the needs and convenience of our clients.
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?
As the owner of Bella Vida Medi Spa, I am fully dedicated to managing and growing my business, and I find myself immersed in it throughout the day. Whether it's responding to client inquiries, booking appointments, or addressing questions about our services, my focus is always on providing the best possible experience for our clients. I understand the importance of being readily available and responsive to their needs, and I prioritize prompt communication to ensure that every client feels valued and well taken care of. This level of commitment requires me to be constantly engaged with the business, but I find fulfillment in knowing that I am providing exceptional service and meeting the needs of our clients.
While my days are often consumed by the demands of running Bella Vida Medi Spa, I make a conscious effort to carve out time on weekends to unwind and spend quality moments with my family and friends. Despite my dedication to the business, I understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and allowing myself the opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate outside of work hours. However, even during these precious weekends, I find that inquiries and appointment requests from clients continue to come in. This ongoing interest in our services serves as a reminder of the trust and confidence our clients have in us, motivating me to continually strive for excellence and ensure that Bella Vida Medi Spa remains a trusted destination for all their esthetic needs.
What is one piece of advice you wish to share with someone who is interested in starting a career in esthetics or even a fellow beauty industry individual?
One piece of advice I would share with someone interested in starting a career in esthetics or a fellow beauty industry individual is to prioritize continuing education and staying up-to-date on the latest trends, techniques, and products in the industry. The beauty industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and products emerging all the time. By investing in ongoing education and training, you can ensure that you are offering the most current and effective treatments to your clients, setting yourself apart from the competition. Additionally, networking and building relationships with other professionals in the industry can be incredibly valuable for your career growth. Collaborating with others, attending industry events, and staying connected with trends through social media can help you stay informed, inspired, and connected within the beauty community. By staying proactive and engaged in your professional development, you can position yourself for success and provide the best possible services to your 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.
My training at The Esthetic Institute (TEI) was a significant inspiration for me to start my own business in the beauty industry. From the moment I stepped into the school, I felt a sense of comfort and excitement about learning and expanding my skills. The professional and supportive teachers at TEI treated me like an adult and provided me with the knowledge and resources I needed to succeed. Even after graduating, they continued to support me in finding job opportunities and furthering my education. A standout moment for me was when I purchased a body contouring machine from Beauty Depot a few months after graduating. The TEI staff were more than willing to help me refresh my memory on how to properly use the machine, showcasing their ongoing commitment to their students' success. I am incredibly grateful for the education and support I received at TEI, and it played a pivotal role in empowering me to start my own business in the beauty industry. I would highly recommend anyone to this wonderful school if they are interested in the beauty industry.