Today we’d like to introduce you to Suzanne Dempsey.
Hi Suzanne, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In my early 20’s, I took an interest in skincare. At the time, there was a school in Jacksonville called Heritage Institute. They had a 1200 – 1500 hour skincare program that was very in-depth, and at the end, I obtained my Esthetician (Facial Specialist) license and received my Associate of Science for Skincare. After graduation and licensing, I started my Esthetics career. As I approach my 9th year as a licensed Esthetician, I’ve decided to take the plunge and begin my spa finally; thus, Sakura Luna Boutique Spa has been officially opened. I’m very excited to go into business and put my magical twist on the Esthetics world.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There has been quite a bit of struggle throughout my career. For about 2 and a half years in my career, I had to go back to food industry work due to many places not wanting to hire someone with little experience. That’s one thing I plan to change through my business. I’m currently a solo esthetician. But after about a year, I plan to expand into my storefront. And hire estheticians of all levels of experience and training provided to all. No matter the experience level, it is always right to have more training. Learning new techniques, skills, protocols, and services is a part of being an esthetician. All should seek knowledge in the field. The employment for estheticians is super strict and rarely makes way for newly licensed individuals, thus discouraging them. Hoping someone to have 2 years of experience without giving them a chance to gain that experience is counterintuitive. I look forward to being able to change even a little of what is expected in the aesthetics industry. Another area I have experienced over the years bad management; a lot of times, the employer or management in certain places never worked as an esthetician. They opened a spa to make money, but since they didn’t have a proper education in esthetics, they would often overlook or turn a blind eye to bad habits that could ultimately damage client experiences and potentially alter their health. I’ve also dealt with employers treating employees like they weren’t even people.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us more about your business.
Sakura Luna Boutique Spa is currently a solo spa. I offer eyelash extensions, lash lifts, lash and brow tinting, sugaring hair removal, foot soaks, lip treatments, and facials. The boutique sells not only care products but also metaphysical items. I also offer the chance for a tarot or oracle reading during the guest’s visit for an added experience. Within the first year, I plan on obtaining more licensing and expanding my services. Recently, I began my journey into herbalism and will be incorporating it into the spa. I also obtained a Natural Skincare Formulation certificate and will create Sakura Luna’s all-natural bath and body products. Sakura Luna is a safe space spa and LGBTQ+ welcoming. I offer a secure and magical experience for each guest who comes through my door.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting.
Yes, be diligent and chase the field. There are a lot of skills, techniques, training, and methods in the esthetician world. Don’t take constructive criticism personally. If someone says anything about your technique, look at it from their perspective. Stay encouraged if chains or other large spas turn you away for lack of experience. Find a more local spa to find training and experience. Do your best and keep up with our ever-changing world. Set personal and professional goals each year, even some that may feel unobtainable at the time. Challenge yourself for your gain and not for someone else. Also, take more than just any job. Not all pay structures are fair or even legal. Often, people will try to hire you as an individual contractor when you should be an employee. Be careful out there!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sakuraluna.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sakuralunaspa/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sakuralunaspa
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SakuraLunaSpa
Image Credits
Patrick Dempsey for the main photo.
