Today we’d like to introduce you to Evaline Rodriguez.
Hi Evaline, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I had graduated from UMKC with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, originally intended to pursue a counseling degree. After having worked as a barista for many years, interning at a domestic violence shelter, boutique retail experience. I decided to completely pivot. I took a risk and enrolled myself in esthetician school without consulting anyone in my personal life. It was intimidating at first, the beauty industry can feel oversaturated at times. I wasn’t sure if the investment would work out in the end. I had to make it work. Out of school and finally receiving my license, I struggled to find work that aligned with my values and interests. I decided to save for a year, continue to study on my own, before taking another leap. Betting that I could go solo. I started out renting in a salon suites chain for about 6 months. Eventually found a suite in the heart of Westport. With the help of artistic friends and dedicated family, they all helped me create a lil pastel oasis to calm home!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It was hard, emotionally, physically, financially. I worked and used my own savings to put myself through esthetician school. I’ve been bootstrapping my small business from the start working various part time jobs here and there to support myself. When I first started, I tabled and vended at community events and other small businesses to market myself. It was a personal journey on many levels. I’m shy by nature, and this whole entrepreneurial experience has forced me out of my comfort zone for the better.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I call myself the Skincare Nerd online. I work to demystify skincare and help my friends and clients make informed skincare decisions unique to their needs. I’m proud to be many clients first facial. It can be a vulnerable and intimate thing. To touch the face with care. I’m honored to have my communities’ trust. My specialty is facial massage, inspired by TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). The Gua Sha Facial being the most popular service; stimulates blood flow, de-puffs, relaxes facial muscles. Facials, and other beauty treatments are seen as luxury; and are most of the time. This practice could be an essential part of someone’s self-care practice. It’s a form of touch therapy. Not only are we addressing skin health, but we help calm the nervous system. That’s why it is important to me to facilitate a culture around skincare and beauty treatments that is accessible and approachable so that anyone can experience this positive effect.
Any big plans?
The big dream is to own an accessible community wellness center. For now, I’m doing the steady work of growing my small business, and looking into opening a storefront within the next few years. “Fingers crossed”
Pricing:
- New Client Consult & Facial ($75)
- Gua Sha Facial ($100)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://evalinesthetics.as.me/schedule/a408dc97
- Instagram: @evalinesthetics
