20+ year makeup artist and skincare professional, representing medical grade equipment and clinical skincare lines throughout the Midwest, Leah Chavie took her knowledge and love for skincare products and treatments to open her first skincare boutique in 2010. Leah Chavie uses her background in marketing, training and consulting with makeup and anti-aging skincare lines along with her education as a certified medical esthetician and laser technician, to bring clients a customized solution that you can see the first time she treats. Read our interview with the lovely Leah below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business.
I knew I had a passion for the spa and beauty industry at a young age. I started at the front desk at a large spa chain in Minnesota and eventually worked my way up to management. Through every single job I gained experience, grooming me to have my own business. I worked closely with doctors, spas, and some of the industry’s top experts, and over time my dream of owning my own skincare boutique became tangible. After almost 20 years in the industry, I decided it was time to create my own space. A place that has a constant flow of good energy and would allow me to do what I love.
Tell us about your business.
My boutique is a research inspired skin destination, physically designed and fashioned with the most high-tech equipment on the market.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
Right now we are offering a promotion for every $75 you spend, you can receive a $20 credit towards your next service.
List awards/ certifications/ accomplished.
- InStyle magazine 2013 voted top facial in Chicago
- CS magazine Best of Beauty for the last 7 years
- 4 Cutera Laser certifications
- Educator for Jane Iredale and Envy Medical and numerous other certifications from 20 years of experience
Where is your business based?
In Chicago’s Lincoln Park on Halsted. ‘Hollywood on Halsted!’
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running.
I scouted for the best location and hustled to get clients in the door.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
I would say word of mouth.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Staying current with the skincare trends.
How did you overcome these challenges?
By always learning and taking refresher courses. Protocols and the way services are performed are always changing and evolving. Luckily, it’s something that I’m passionate about. So being able to continue growing my knowledge of the skincare business is exciting.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I really enjoy working out, but my favorite thing to do would be to take my dogs (my babies!) on long walks along the lake or Lincoln Park Zoo.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I truly believe that there is enough out here for everyone, I lead with integrity and try to provide the best service possible.
What is the best advice that you have received recently?
In the words of my late friend, “When you know better, you do better and try to live in faith not fear.”
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Whatever happens, do not give up. You will have to put in more time and energy than you thought humanly possible, but all good things take time. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither should your business. Stay positive.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
Google and my amazing team around me that help with our success.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below
Instagram @leahchavieskincare
Facebook @LeahChavieSkin
Twitter @Leahchavieskin
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
Right now I’m reading “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill.
What are currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
Looking at the statistics of sending out newsletters and understanding open rate percentages.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
We have a marketing plan in place until the end of the year and are currently strategizing our game plan for 2017 in all aspects from customer outreach to charity involvement.