Today we’d like to introduce you to Pamela Arcand.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My esthetic journey started in my early 20s in Minneapolis while managing a salon and spa in Uptown. It was there that I felt a constant pull to the hands on, one on one connection that spa therapies provided. I fell in love with the aromas, textures, and feelings that the treatment rooms contained. In 2005, I decided to go back to school to become an Esthetician. Since then, I have worked in medical spas, day spas, nontoxic spas and salon spas. In 2017, I opened my own private space in Lincoln Park where I continue to practice Esthetics.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Opening up my business last year was one of the most challenging times in my career. I had always had an idea in my mind that to be a “boss” you needed to be in charge of a lot of people and that you needed to enjoy that position. I have always been a behind the scenes person, so I thought I would never be a “boss”. When I first opened Altruistic Esthetics, I felt very much like an imposter, even though I had been an esthetician for over a decade. I felt that everyone else could run a business and that it wasn’t ever going to be something that I was capable of. My thoughts on that have completely changed now and I feel more confident in my abilities to be a boss. A boss means different things to different people and I think the key for me was to figure out what that meant for me. Surrounding myself with other entrepreneurs, artists, and supportive women was essential to my success as a new business owner. Find your people. Find your cheerleaders. Take a risk. You’ll be surprised how far a little confidence can take you!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Altruistic Esthetics – what should we know?
I try to provide a laid back, to the point approach to skincare without the clinical atmosphere. My space emulates that approach and is cozy, dimly lit and always luxurious. I specialize in customized facial treatments that cater to every lifestyle. I offer the full spectrum of skincare solutions, from coconut oil and aloe to intensive glycolics and retinols. I am also well known for Brazilian Bikini Sugaring and have quite a following for this service! I have been practicing sugaring for years now and have really perfected my skills, making it the least painful method of hair removal out there.
I am most proud of my ability to create a welcoming space for all with a focus on one on one connection. My clients are important to me and feel like family. I love to make every one of them feel special, welcomed and cared for, whether it’s a 5-minute brow wax or a luxurious 90-minute facial. I strive to create unique treatment plans for each individual client.
What sets me apart from others is that I am in charge of the entire client experience. From the moment you step into your appointment, I am the one taking care of you. All questions are answered by me, I will be providing the service, taking payment and setting up your next appointment. In a world where everything is becoming automated, I feel that it is important to really connect with my clients on a personal level.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
So many! I could go on and on. Female entrepreneurs, specifically Jenny Duranski, owner of Lena Rose Beauty and Tamara, owner of Allyu Spa. These women have such amazing vision and execution for their brands. They are quiet leaders and are always on the forefront of what’s happening in the spa world today.
My sister has inspired me a ton because she is a powerhouse and a woman who takes care of business while making it seem effortless. She is intuitive, resourceful and driven. Always a student, she inspires me to continue learning.
My family, husband, friends, influencers, artists, athletes and day to day stories I hear from my clients are forever inspiring me. It is such a gift that I get to connect with so many people on a daily basis. The wisdom I hear when I’m with each of my clients is priceless.
Pricing:
- Brazilian Sugaring $60+
- Facials $120-$250
- Brow waxing $22
Contact Info:
- Address: 2860 N Broadway
Suite 45 in the Salons by JC building - Website: www.altruisticesthetics.com
- Email: info@altruisticesthetics.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altruistic.esthetics
Image Credit:
Ozzie Ramsay, Karmen Elaine
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