There’s no business like it

Jennifer Ng

Competition in the field of esthetics is fierce.  Maple Ridgebased esthetician Kim Brochu is taking on a challenge that most people always dream of doing— starting their own business. With the launch of Kim’s Esthetics this past October, Kim tells us how she got to where she is and what challenges this industry brings.

GLOSS: How did you get started in esthetics?
KB: I started working for a salon & spa when I was 15, that is when I became interested in doing esthetics. After High School, I enrolled in the Esthetics program at the Blanche Macdonald Centre.

GLOSS: How was your experience at BMC?
KB: I really enjoyed Blanche; they have really good teachers there.

GLOSS: What is your favorite thing about your job?
KB: The thing I love most about my job is I get to make people feel good all day long! Even if it is something painful like waxing, it still makes them feel sexy and feminine!

GLOSS: What made you want to start your own business?
KB: After working for a salon for four years, I decided I wanted to be my own boss. When you work from your own home you can charge your clients less and still make a decent profit. It costs a lot to run a big salon, so their prices have to be higher.

GLOSS: What are some of the challenges in your industry?
KB: Finding a salon that you really enjoy working for can be a challenge. Luckily I did or I wouldn't have stayed there for four years! Secondly, making decent money is a huge challenge. The best way to make money in this industry is to work on commission.  The first few years when you are building up your clientele can be extremely hard. After you build your clientele the best thing to do is to go into business for yourself!

GLOSS: Describe a typical day at work.
KB: It varies.  You might end up having only one client getting multiple services done all day or you may have 20 clients throughout the day getting eyebrow waxes. In between clients you must clean up, change sheets/towels etc and on slow days you may arrive at work and have no clients scheduled at all. In turn, you will sit around and wait, just in case someone walks in off the street for a service. In your down time you are usually cleaning, re-stocking supplies, and organizing. At the end of a busy day it is best to stay and clean up, sanitize surfaces, and make sure laundry is done so you can start fresh the next day!

GLOSS: What is your advice for anyone who wants to be an esthetician?
KB: Before getting into the salon or spa field it is best to really think about it, so many people are getting into the industry for the wrong reasons. Often people choose esthetics or hairdressing because they think it will be a fun job, and it'll make their parents happy that they are going to school. You have to have extremely good people skills with all different kinds of people! You have to have a steady hand, and a very good touch. Every service you perform will involve touching people, and talking to them. Also, don't expect to make millions from this industry right off the bat. It takes a good few years before you are making a decent wage.

GLOSS: Ever think of changing profession?
KB: I think about changing professions all the time! Don't get me wrong, I love what I do, but there’s no job security. In this industry it is almost impossible to find a place that offers benefits. Additionally, when you work on commission, some months can be good and some can be bad. It's really hard to plan financially when you don't know what your paycheck is going to be! I know that if I do change professions I will have to keep some clients on the side, because I would miss it if I quit completely!

GLOSS: Can you share your best beauty tip with us?
KB: The best advice I can give to anyone is to TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN! Your skin is the largest organ in your body; you only get one chance with it! So many women are getting plastic surgery, Botox and chemical peels; those are all completely unnecessary if you take proper care of your skin. Invest money into a professional skin care line. Soap and water is the worst thing you could possibly use on your skin! Estheticians are trained in picking out a skin care regime for a client. It might cost you $200 for a few items, but they will be beneficial. Instead of spending that money on a pair of jeans, treat your skin to something that could change your future!