Today we’d like to introduce you to Liz Nelson.
Liz, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I began my nursing career in pediatrics, I worked in GI Surgery and ER, but felt like my creative side was getting placed on the back burner so I started to brainstorm on how I could combine my interest in healthcare and aesthetics. As a young adult living in a growing entrepreneurial-minded world, I understood that self-confidence is key to success. So, I decided to learn how to perform airbrush tans to add a safe beauty option for both women and men. I could be flexible with these extra hours worked, and I didn’t need to hire staff to operate it. I became dedicated to perfecting my new craft, keeping safety and natural results as my top priority. My strategy for growing my business was just word of mouth, social media, and networking. I began collaborating with other local small businesses, offering pop-ups for on-site tans and cross promotion.
I fell in love with the small business world of Fort Worth and all the people I was meeting. The drive small business owners and entrepreneurs harbor is absolutely invigorating! One of my pop-ups was with Steven Camp MD Plastic Surgery. This introduction was the start of my journey in plastic surgery nursing. The Camps and I really jived, and that led to an incredible job offer. Although Dr. Camp’s primary focus is breast surgery, he offers face and body plastic surgery as well as advanced injection treatments. He has trained me as a master level injector, Sciton laser provider, and sent me to CoolSculpting University where I became certified to permanently rid fat via cryolypolysis. Patient needs and ideas keep me super busy, and I am constantly learning updated medical data and approaches. The combination of medical practice and the ever-changing marketing world keeps me excited here. Our practice is one of the most fun environments I could dream to work in, we make sure everyone feels fully supported and leaves with a smile on their face.
Has it been a smooth road?
Is anyone’s life smooth? My most challenging obstacles have been stepping outside of my shell and realizing that being imperfect is what makes me more approachable to patients and clients alike. Being genuine helps foster and nurture relationships and it is so contagious. Trial and error are not just for science experiments and knowing who you can trust to guide you in healthy ways is vital to growth. This approach is a wise one to use in any experience, and I have continued to seek out new knowledge and considerations in all that I do.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Currently, I work as the Aesthetics Coordinator and one of the Nurse Injectors for Steven Camp MD Plastic Surgery. Most of the week I have some type of needle in my hand, which is welcomed by patients who visit. I perform skincare analyses and exams, guide patients through treatment recommendations prescribed by Dr. Camp for skin improvement, facial rejuvenation, and post-op care, and provide injectable, laser, and CoolSculpting treatments. I also assist with marketing and events, which is the cherry on top to the fun here! One of my ideas that has taken off is applying the title “Bow Tie Babes” to our all-female staff. Patients and social media followers love it, and it has been a great tool to use for promoting the practice.
Before and after office hours, I see clients for sunless airbrush tans working as Gorgeous Glow Airbrush Tans. I was awarded Fort Worth Magazine’s Reader’s Choice for Best Sunless Tans for 2018 and am still humbled by that recognition. The solution I use is organic, vegan, and paraben and erythrulose free and has a rapid development option so clients love it. I also developed my own aerosol spray that I sell for touch-ups between sessions and on trips. In all that I do I pride myself on my communication skills. Listening to all patient/client concerns and goals, and ensuring I provide thorough education about the treatment processes and products have proven to be the most important foundation for five-star appointments.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
I agree with this suggestion. Fort Worth seems to have a better grasp on this than most other cities as there are several notable female led business support groups and leaders in our community. Groups like Tanglewood Moms and Madeworthy Magazine, Shop Small Fort Worth, and Fort Worth Mavens offer mentorship and business growth opportunities literally in our backyard. In the plastic surgery world, networking seems to be the best way to meet area and industry leaders. Step one is branding yourself, and step two is marketing yourself as an asset to your career of interest. Social media has become a powerful and affordable way to do both these things. If you are not sure how to present yourself in a unique and professional way, ask anyone you come across that is owning this. Reach out to area groups like the ones I listed above. There is always the possibility of being ignored or told ‘no,’ but isn’t the possibility of an opportunity worth it? Send me a message or stop by sometime and I’d love to help how I can! Let’s empower one another.
Pricing:
- Consultation with Dr. Camp $100
- Consultation with me $50
- Airbrush Tan $45
Contact Info:
- Address: 3455 Locke Ave St 320
Fort Worth, TX 76107 - Website: www.campplasticsurgery.com
- Phone: 817-228-4315
- Email: liz.nelson@campplasticsurgery.com
- Instagram: @lizdiane85 @stevencampmdplasticsurgery
Image Credit:
Paige Walker Photography, Nicole Rose Portraits, Alana Kay Art
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
