Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Ann Jackson.
Hi, Carrie Ann. We are so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My path to becoming a massage therapist and spa owner was a fun adventure. When I graduated high school, I wanted to become a massage therapist. Although life had a path to the journey that I did not expect, it gave me the tools to help along the way. I started my career working in a group home with adults with physical and developmental disabilities. Over the 14 years, I have worked in many roles. I am working my way to a medical liaison and manager. I still desired to become a massage therapist when I left my job and attended Onondaga School of Massage Therapy in New York. I was in school speaking with a friend and told them I wanted to work my way to open my spa someday. Who knew this was where the road would lead me? The school was open to help students explore different opportunities. That would lead me to be a massage therapist. Upon completing schooling, I wanted to explore the world. So, on Thanksgiving, I loaded my car and took the ride to Florida with my mom to see where the world would lead me.
When I arrived, I quickly found a job as a massage therapist in a larger chain and worked for many years, gaining more skills. I had an opportunity to join a small spa and rent a room in Orange Park. I knew that I desired a place of my own. To help empower the people who work with me and create a relaxing environment where people feel like individuals in their own spa experience. I currently work at a location in the Julington Creek/Mandarin area. I wanted to work in this supportive community. A place that felt like home to me. Searching for a location was eye-opening to all the moving parts of starting a business. With help from people around me, I started on this journey. I have made friends along the way—people who are invaluable to my growth. I opened my spa and thought some days were rough. I am proud of who I am today, and I am proud of my journey!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting a new massage spa has come with great accomplishments and great struggles along the way. When I first started this journey, I was unaware of all the beginning steps that went into running your own business. The paperwork, taxes, and long hours took a lot of work to start. Every day in the past two years, I have learned something new to keep the goal in mind. The path along the way was paved smoother by the incredible support of the amazing women who have joined me on this journey—the support of all my family and friends. One of the greatest feelings is when I pull up to the spa and see the sign outside the door. Thinking to myself I did that.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us more about your business.
Expressions Massage is a small spa with currently six amazing women. We offer massage, skincare, and waxing services. We specialize in deep tissue, Swedish, and prenatal massage. We also offer various skin care services, including facials, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels. You are met with a calm and relaxing environment when you enter Expressions Massage. We meet with you at each appointment to discuss your goals and how to work with you to create a customized massage to your wants. We offer full-time for your massages. Only count hands-on time, and do not take time away from the whole massage. We pride ourselves on providing an amazing customer experience.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Can you share something that might surprise us?
I enjoy going into nature and taking photographs, especially of flowers. I get lost in being around nature and engulfed by its beauty. I also want times when I can get dressed up. I enjoy dressing up in the 1950s style of pinup makeup and dresses. Most people who come into the spa see us daily in black clothing. Truthfully, it’s sometimes surprising to see us away from that environment.
Pricing:
- 60 minute massage $85
- 90 minute massage $120
- 2 hour massage $160
- European Facial $95
- Microdermabrasion $115
Contact Info:
- Website: https://expressionsmassage.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/expression_massage
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/expressionsmassage
