Alexa Kirkland
Redlands, CA | 7-year Esthetician
1. Where are you from and how long have you been an Esthetician?
I am from Redlands in Southern California (between Palm Springs and L.A.), and I’ve been an esthetician for 7 years.
2. What do you think is the most important & overlooked step to owning a business?
The most important step to take when owning a business is creating boundaries for yourself and business. This gives your mind a break between work, creates a work/life balance, and helps with avoiding stress and burnout.
3. How did you first find your clientele & what did you do so they became repeat clients?
My clientele over the years has mostly been from word of mouth and social media. To gain consistent clientele that keeps coming back, I have a few things I always do: stay professional, share bits of myself to connect, remember little details about previous conversations, educate about product/aftercare, add in little details to create an experience at their treatments, and stay consistent on social media… all so important!
4. What is something new (trends, systems, products) in the industry that made you really excited?
A trend that I’ve been loving (and that is hopefully here to stay!) is people focusing on “natural beauty.” As a brow artist, in my treatment room, this has always been my approach so I definitely have appreciation for it!
5. What is your favorite way to continue your education?
Staying connected with friends and my peers in the industry has really helped me to continue educating myself. It is eye-opening to learn about new products, different techniques, and systems in your business. In a lot of ways, our field is so collaborative—always learning from one another, and I love it!
6. What does "success" look like to you?
Success, in my opinion, is very subjective. This means something different for everyone, but for myself, personally, it means being genuinely happy.
For me, success also means one word: balance. The “balance” of your work life and family/friend life. The “balance” of finding or creating something that you love but it is also work. The “balance” to treat yourself but also be able to put money away, etc.
