Podcast Summary: Beauty with a Twist – Episode: Speed Waxing, Service Room Horror Stories & Client No Call No Shows
Host: Dede
Guest: Kimberly (@wax_junkie)
Release Date: August 9, 2024
Introduction of the Guest
In this episode of Beauty with a Twist, host Dede welcomes her special guest, Kimberly, known professionally as Wax Junkie on Instagram (@wax_junkie), who brings over a decade of experience in the beauty and esthetics industry. The episode delves into Kimberly's entrepreneurial journey, her specialized services, and the challenges she's faced in building her business.
Kimberly's Background and Journey in Esthetics
San Fernando Valley Roots and Specialization
Kimberly hails from the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, California, where she established her spa in Chatsworth, specializing primarily in Brazilian waxing and vagacials. She explains her focused approach:
"Currently, I've put myself to just do Brazilian waxing right now." [00:47]
Origin of "Wax Junkie"
Reflecting on her brand name, Kimberly shares the inspiration behind “Wax Junkie”:
"Once you wax, you can't go back. You're gonna really love your results. And for me, it was like, you become a junkie to waxing." [02:05]
This name encapsulates her passion and commitment to providing exceptional waxing services, emphasizing the addictive nature of the results her clients experience.
Building and Expanding the Business
Early Career and Education
Kimberly began her career at European Wax Center, gaining valuable experience over a year. She later transitioned to Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa, where she focused on facials for four years. The pandemic was a pivotal moment, pushing her to return to waxing by setting up a massage table in her backyard and adapting to the changing market:
"I ended up buying a massage table I set up in the corner of my back house. And I just invited people to start coming in..." [10:44]
Transition to Solo Entrepreneurship
Driven by necessity during the pandemic and supported by her family, Kimberly took a bold step toward entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of taking gradual steps and building a strong foundation:
"Take those steps slowly and build. Because a lot of us are scared to even start anywhere..." [12:12]
Managing a Team and Booth Renters
Forming Aesthetic Junkies Collective
Kimberly successfully transitioned from solo operations to managing a collective of talented estheticians. Her team, known as Aesthetic Junkies, includes seven members, each running their own business within the collective:
"We're a collective group that collaborates, so we're known as aesthetic junkies. But everybody is their own business owner." [20:00]
Recruitment and Team Dynamics
Recruiting the right team was a challenge, particularly in ensuring compatibility and work ethic. Kimberly highlights the importance of strong communication and mutual support within her team:
"We've been together for at least three years, and we have not had one single argument or fight between us." [22:09]
Booth Renting vs. Hourly Hiring
Kimberly advocates for the booth renting model over hourly hiring, valuing the autonomy it provides both her and her team members:
"I like to have booth renters. You could do whatever you want as long as you pay me your rent." [32:02]
This model fosters a supportive environment where estheticians can thrive independently while maintaining a cohesive team dynamic.
Client Relationships and Business Practices
Building Strong Client Bonds
Kimberly prioritizes creating meaningful connections with her clients, ensuring they feel seen and valued rather than just another appointment:
"I don't want my clients who feel like they're just another number." [48:01]
Service Experience and Pricing
She maintains a balance between quality service and profitability by allocating sufficient time for each client, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience:
"If you have a good bond with your client, it's as soon as they walk in. Sometimes I'm like, can I close the door before you get naked?" [48:00]
Handling Tipping and Payments
Kimberly's approach to tipping is respectful and non-intrusive, acknowledging its appreciation without making it mandatory:
"We don't ask people to tip us. If they tip us, it's up to them." [52:37]
Challenges and Handling Difficult Situations
Client No Call No Shows
Addressing the issue of client no shows, Kimberly outlines her strict policies to protect her business's time and revenue:
"We don't play with the 50%. No, you pay for the full amount, baby. You are wasting my time." [58:38]
She enforces these policies by blocking clients with declined payments and publicly addressing the importance of respecting appointments:
"If it makes me feel uncomfortable and I see naked people for a living, I think that's a lot to say." [57:52]
Handling Uncomfortable Situations
Kimberly shares a recent unsettling experience where a client's behavior made her uncomfortable, reinforcing the importance of setting boundaries and trusting her instincts:
"If that ever happens to somebody, I want them to know, like, say something if you're uncomfortable." [57:26]
Personal Insights and Future Outlook
Work-Life Balance and Family Support
Kimberly emphasizes the significance of a supportive "village" in balancing her professional and personal life, especially as a mother:
"I need my village. If it wasn't for these people, I wouldn't be able to do what I do." [41:13]
Inspirational Quotes and Motivation
Concluding the episode, Kimberly shares her favorite motivational quote, highlighting her dedication and passion for her work:
"If you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life." [62:18]
Looking Forward
Kimberly expresses gratitude for her journey and the community she's built, affirming her commitment to providing quality services and supporting her team:
"It is the best experience I could have ever asked for." [63:01]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Brand Inspiration: "Once you wax, you can't go back. You're gonna really love your results. And for me, it was like, you become a junkie to waxing." [02:05]
- Business Philosophy: "Take those steps slowly and build. Because a lot of us are scared to even start anywhere..." [12:12]
- Team Harmony: "We've been together for at least three years, and we have not had one single argument or fight between us." [22:09]
- Client Relationship: "I don't want my clients who feel like they're just another number." [48:01]
- No Call No Show Policy: "We don't play with the 50%. No, you pay for the full amount, baby. You are wasting my time." [58:38]
- Motivational Quote: "If you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life." [62:18]
Conclusion
This episode of Beauty with a Twist offers an in-depth look into Kimberly's entrepreneurial spirit, her dedication to client relationships, and her strategies for managing a successful esthetics business. From overcoming pandemic challenges to fostering a supportive team environment, Kimberly's insights provide valuable lessons for anyone in the beauty and service industry.