Alumni spotlight: Let’s meet Jolyn

Today we have the honor of spotlighting an esthetics alumni JOLYN!

Jolyn is currently working at European wax center in Burlington, NC. With expectations of opening up her own spa one day she’s continued to push herself to her full potential!  Our very own Michelle had a few minutes to sit down and reminisce about her time at Elevate.

Michelle: Tell us a bit about your journey – at what point did you know this was the direction you wanted to go in?

Jolyn: Esthetic school wasn’t something I chose initially coming out of high school; I actually went into Dental School. I didn’t like that either and found myself in Retail Management for almost 8 years. I enjoyed the fast pace and interaction but still didn’t feel satisfied with my work. My dream job was to be in healthcare but couldn’t stomach some of the wildcard situations I may find myself in as a nurse. I always had a small love for skin because growing up I watched my older siblings go through the stages of teen acne and scarring/hyperpigmentation. I invested in my skin early on and prevented almost all of the mistakes I watched them make. With that little bit of passion, I found Esthetics. In Esthetics I found the satisfaction of taking care of a person by healing insecurities and helping them find the confidence in their own skin.

Michelle: What piece of advice would you give any future professional looking to get into this industry?

Jolyn: In my experience of listening and watching fellow Estheticians there is one thing a future Esthetician always looks for reassurance on; Money. But in reality and from my experience as well; there has to be passion first! If you have the passion, the money follows. Servicing individuals whether it’s facials or fast waxing, the relationship you build with each guest is what builds your return in investing in them 100%

Michelle: What has it been like to strike out on your own? Anything unexpected? Or expected?

Jolyn: My biggest fear was the competition once I graduated; Being new in the beauty industry and building my credibility. Going into a field where you are in control of your own outcome instead of being managed because you are the actual producer of the product. The biggest surprise is how easy it was to get comfortable doing everything I do. Again, with the passion to be an Esthetician you find the confidence to deliver the best results for all of your guests.

Michelle: Can you tell us a little a bit about where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Jolyn: In five years I see myself opening up a Spa where I would booth rent rooms for other Esthetician’s while still practicing within as well. Most solo Esthetician’s find a place of their own or rent a room at the back of a hair salon. I want to create an all esthetician salon where guests can walk out from a facial and not have to walk past other people in chairs getting their hair done. I want a relaxed environment where you can walk out looking like you just woke up from a relaxing nap (AKA facial) and know that is NORMAL. But with my background on Bartending I also want to have the front of the salon area to be a small with local bakery items, finger foods, mimosas, and cocktails for you to enjoy after your services.

Well we couldn’t be more proud of how far Jolyn has come and can’t wait to see where life takes her next! Don’t worry we will be first in line at the grand opening of your spa!