Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Swanberg.
Lauren , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Farm girls from Minnesota and a facial bar on the Plaza may not seem like they have much in common, but that’s our life! Seven years ago, my cousin Madison and I stepped into our family’s business as sixth-generation operators on our southern Minnesota farm, continuing a long tradition of entrepreneurship and stewardship. We knew we wanted to grow beyond the farm someday and add a new venture to our portfolio- something that felt a little more like “us”.
We tossed around a lot of ideas from coffee bars and pickleball clubs to event venues and even artisanal vermouth, until Madison’s sister mentioned that her local facial spot was looking to expand. We visited FACE FOUNDRIÉ (it was actually my first-ever facial!) and we were hooked.
As for how two Minnesotans ended up running a business in Kansas City? Madison had spent time here after college and knew it was the perfect market for FACE FOUNDRIÉs mission: approachable, accessible, and affordable skincare. Even when we’re six hours away, we get to watch that mission come to life every day through our incredible team of estheticians who help clients feel amazing in their skin- and that’s the most rewarding part of all.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Opening and running a business in another state definitely came with its challenges. With both of us raising young families, splitting our time between Minnesota and Kansas City can be a juggling act. One of the hardest parts is feeling like we’re not always as present in the KC community as we’d like to be. You can handle a lot by phone or email, but nothing replaces the ability to drop into a Chamber Coffee, network with a walk club, or help out at a last-minute pop-up event.
Thankfully, we have an amazing spa manager, Morgan, who is deeply involved in the community and keeps our presence strong even when we’re not in town. It’s taught us the importance of building a team you can trust and empowering them to lead locally, which has ultimately made the business stronger.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
FACE FOUNDRIÉ is an all-inclusive focused facial bar designed to make great skincare simple and approachable. Our mission is to help every client look and feel their best through cutting-edge services, accessible pricing, and a team of extensively trained experts who genuinely care.
We specialize in all things face, from curated facials and treatments (including Hydrafacial, Microchanneling, and our new Acne Agent Face Reality facial) to lashes, brows, and professional skincare products. Our services are designed to be both efficient and effective, so you can fit self-care into your busy schedule without compromising results.
What sets us apart is the experience: we’re approachable, results-driven, and passionate about education, so our clients leave not only glowing, but knowing how to care for their skin at home. We also believe skincare should be FUN! That’s why we host Face Parties – events where groups can come in together for facials while enjoying sips, snacks, and some well deserved pampering.
Finally, we’re most proud of the incredible team we’ve built. Our estheticians truly connect with clients, celebrate their wins, and make them feel seen and cared for. Our goal is to make professional skincare something everyone feels comfortable experiencing, whether it’s your first facial or part of your monthly routine.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
This business wouldn’t be where it is without an incredible circle of support. First and foremost, our husbands deserve a huge thank you for holding down the fort at home when we’re traveling back and forth between Minnesota and Kansas City. They make it possible for us to show up for this business fully.
We’re also so grateful for the amazing Plaza community, local clubs, and small business partners we’ve collaborated with along the way. From cross-promotions to pop-up events, that spirit of partnership has helped us feel like we’re a part of Kansas City.
And most importantly, we wouldn’t be where we are today without the passion, dedication, expertise, and commitment of our staff: Morgan, Marisa, Haley, Syd, Sydney, Londyn, Presley, and Kyndal. They are the heartbeat of FACE FOUNDRIÉ, and we’re so excited to keep growing together!
Pricing:
- Focused Facials: $79
- H2Glow Hydrafacial: $179
- Microchanneling: $219
- Acne Agent Facial: $99
- FirmAF Facial: $99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.facefoundrie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/facefoundriekansascity/
