Today we’d like to introduce you to Kielani Steller.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve been an Esthetician for about eight years, I didn’t quite know what I wanted to do once I graduated Highschool. I remember I was towards the end of senior year and I was crying to my mom because I just didn’t believe I was a fit for college and it never crossed my mind. I was so sure she would be disappointed having been a single mom raising three girls on her own (till my stepdad came in the picture).
When I finally had the courage to tell her why I was so upset, she looked at me and said: ” I want you to find something you are passionate about, thats all I’ve wanted for you.” So we began listing out my interests and came across esthetics, but I didn’t want to be just ANY esthetician I wanted to work with Dr’s and have more in depth training.
I came across IMAJ Institute in Scottsdale AZ, and we flew out three days later to check it out, I was in love! The program was unlike any other, it was a very detailed program that included laser training. We talked to the enrollment advisor and discussed how much the school costs and he hit us with $20,000. I could tell my mom was concerned because at the time the school didn’t have financial aid, so this was out of pocket, but she said: “okay when can she start.”
Next thing I know my mom started a job she hated solely so I could go to school and not have to worry about the financial part of it. Fast forward eight 1/2 months later, I’m graduating from esthetic school and on the hunt for a job. I worked for two Dr’s in my eight years of being an Esthetician. My last job the Dr. decided to sell his spa after I had been with his company for six years, I always knew I wanted my own spa to run MY way, so this was the perfect oppurtunity.
A month later, Rival Aesthetics transformed from a dream to a reality. It was very difficult in the beginning as all new business ventures are, but I refused to give up and kept pushing forward. I’m coming up on two years of being my own boss, and it has been amazing.
My goal as an esthetician and spa owner is to make sure my treatments are corrective and affordable, being raised by my mom taught me to appreciate the hard working women and men and this is my way of giving back to them. I believe everyone should be able to afford to take care of their skin, not only is it neccessary but being able to carve out a whole hour to just get pampered for someone who is used to taking care of everyone first is a magical expirience, and I’m glad I can provide that.
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?
Not at all! You really have to be able to roll with the punches and learn to think on your feet. In the beauty industry, you deal with a lot of people who are vulnerable due to their skin concerns, and sometimes they take out their frustrations on you. But you learn as the years go on not to take everything so personally because everyone has bad days.
I’ve also struggled with learning that it’s okay to ask for help, being a one woman show is great, but you can’t always do it all. So delegating tasks to others has been a real challenge because my spa is my baby so I want to make sure it is well taken care of.
Please tell us about Rival Aesthetics.
I’m a licensed Esthetician and the sole owner of Rival Aesthetics. I specialize in custom facials, all my clients are unique, so I believe their facials should be too. I’m most known for my personality, I’m a very open person which allows my clients to be more open and feel like they can confide in me because they can.
The thing that makes me the most proud is that clients from all walks of life can come to Rival Aesthetics and feel at home.
The thing that sets me apart is when people come to me they’re getting experience not just a facial. I have a lot of first time facial clients that have no idea what to expect, I make sure they are informed about each process of the facial and explain in detail why I chose the products/facial for them. I love to educate my clients, so they have the knowledge they need to maintain their results.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory is playing dress up with my cousin and putting on plays/shows for our family. I have always been into fashion and beauty and the love for both only grew through the years.
Contact Info:
- Address: 5529 Louetta Rd, Spring Tx 77379 Suite A
- Website: rivalskincare.com
- Phone: 832-928-3646
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rival_skin/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RivalAesthetics/
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