This business spotlight is our first in a series recognizing local holistic practitioners and businesses that are celebrating 10 years in 2017. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Melissa Martin Wallace, owner of Anew You Skincare & Wellness in Avon to discuss her inspiration and success.
DH: Why did you want to start your own business vs working for another spa?
MW: I worked in corporate settings for 15 years and always knew it would not be forever. I had always wanted to have my own business for the freedom and accomplishment aspects of it. Once I got involved in skincare, and saw how happy people were with their results, I knew this was the industry for me to pursue. Once out of Esthetic School, I worked for several spas and knew I could do it on my own. Opening Anew You Skincare is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!
DH: What has been your biggest success and your biggest challenge in owning a business for 10 years?
MW: My biggest challenge was opening the doors not knowing if any of my current clients would join me at my new business. Turns out client referrals is a huge part of my business and is the best compliment I could ever receive. To me, it means that I am able to help people look and feel better. Our clients often say, “It is so relaxing in here”! Our environment is unique. Think an oasis, a healing respite for opening your mind, rejuvenating your body and soothing your spirit. This is an important part of who we are because we want your visit to have an amazing effect on your well-being and allow you to take some time out from your daily schedules.
DH: What plans do you have for the future?
MW: I am currently in the process of an exciting new venture! I am launching a new line of handcrafted natural body care products to include body lotions, body butters, foot treatments, lip balms, soap, bath bombs and shower fizzles.
DH: What are you most proud of that you’ve accomplished in the last 10 years?
MW: Ten years has truly flown by! It seems like yesterday that Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center opened its doors. We’ve stayed true to our philosophy to offer natural, non-invasive, effective treatments and products that treat the entire person. We offer a range of treatments from traditional to advanced including deep tissue massage, massage cupping, reflexology, traditional facials, collagen facials, microdermabrasion, medical grade peels, non-surgical facelifts, cellulite treatments, detox footbaths, reiki, eyelash and eyebrow tinting, facial broken capillary, milia and skin tag removal. Our treatments are alternatives to surgery and injectables and relieve tension, regenerate and renew.
DH: What advice would you have for practitioners/business owners about how to be successful in their industry?
MW: Quality matters and stay positive. Like attracts like.
Interview by Dr. Diane Hayden. Anew You Skincare & Wellness Center, located in Avon, Connecticut, was founded in 2007 by Esthetician Melissa Martin Wallace. Melissa has been in the skincare industry since 2001. She and her staff focus on providing natural, non-invasive, customized treatments that are good for your health and your appearance!