We are thrilled to be connecting with Leah Tressler again. Leah is an Esthetics and Cosmetology School Operator and is also a content partner. Content partners help Voyage in so many ways from spreading the word about the work that we do, sponsoring our mission and collaborating with us on content like this. Check out our conversation with Leah below.
Hi Leah, so great to have you join us again. For folks who might have missed our earlier conversations, can you please take a minute to briefly introduce yourself?
I am a licensed cosmetologist, barber, and instructor who began working in the industry 25 years ago. During my career, I have worked as a hair dresser, waxer, makeup artist, instructor, sales representative, and attorney. I opened Salon Boutique Academy in 2012 in Addison, Texas. I have a team of 10 women who all share their passion and experience with students looking to build or grow their careers in the beauty industry. For licensed professionals, we have a sister company, Salon Boutique, which provides salon suite locations to licensed professionals in Texas, Tennessee, Arizona, and Nevada.
What trends are you seeing in the beauty industry?
Anti-aging services continue to remain in high demand this year. Our students complete case studies for their clients. These case studies are a great way to help clients learn about their own skin by completing a thorough skin analysis, followed by six weeks of suggested treatments based on skin condition and needs. Our students learn proper skills while the clients learn proper at-home self care between treatments. It is really a win-win on both ends.
While injectables are still a rage generally (not taught as part of our licensure programs), we teach out students and clients about non-invasive services like LED light therapy and microcurrent that can enhance the appearance of the skin and product ingredients best suited for the individual for overall longevity of skin health.
As we enter summer, waxing and sugaring services always increase. Both men and women are interested in being bathing suit-ready, so brazilian waxing and manzilian waxing services are a hit. Not interested in UV exposure for the sun? We have you covered – our students learn proper spray tanning techniques to give you a tan look without the health concerns.
How has the pandemic impacted training and employment? Where do you see it going in the next 12 months?
The past year has been a roller coaster for so many industries. Our Academy is lucky to be in Texas. While we did have to transition training online for a few months and then offer hybrid courses in order to socially distance, we were able to successfully graduate students and have them become licensed during a time where so many people were limited in options. Salons and spas that were closed or limited last year are now re-opened, and our industry (at least locally) is currently rebounding. Salons and spas that were not in a position to hire last year are now contacting us and growing again.
Our Academy is back to operating on-premises regularly; however, we have had many learnings from the pandemic, one of which is the flexibility online training provides. While we certainly find value in our programs being based predominately in-house for practical-training purposes, we are continuing to look at ways we may be able to integrate a portion of our theory-training online on a more permanent basis within the next year so that students attending our programs have additional flexibility in scheduling around the other priorities in their lives, whether that be work or family.
What new avenues are you exploring for your business?
Our current programs are esthetics and cosmetology training. We are currently in the process of developing and test piloting a manicurist program. Once approved, this program will provide an additional skillset for our esthetics alumni looking to expand their service offerings, as well as for future students entering the industry who have a passion for nails.
It was so great to reconnect. One last question – how can our readers connect with you, learn more or support you?
Salon Boutique Academy can be located on facebook and instagram (@SalonBoutiqueAcademy). You can learn more about our programs online at www.salonboutiqueacademy.com. Have a question? Give us a call or send a text to 214-263-3276
Contact Info:
- Website: www.salonboutiqueacademy.com
- Facebook: salonboutiqueacademy
