Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth (Liz) Garcia.
Hi Liz, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Of course! I was born and raised here in San Diego and went to Kearny High School, but only completed my sophomore year. I left after going through a traumatic event that in many ways changed the trajectory of my life. I completed my GED and when I turned sixteen, I began working full time in medical billing. I would make that my career for the next decade. After suddenly being let go from my corporate job, I went to beauty school and received my esthetician’s license on the advice of my mom who believed my passion for self-care could turn into a fulfilling career. Like they say, “mother knows best,” and she honestly did. Beauty school absolutely changed my life. Never in a million years did I think I would be waxing for a living, but here I am and more importantly I truly love what I do. As a single mom, the COVID pandemic gave me few options when things shut down. So I chose to control my future and start my own waxing business.
Alright, 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?
Becoming my own boss has been exciting and terrifying. After the COVID pandemic hit, I had to take a leave from my job at a waxing franchise to stay home with my daughter who was in second grade at the time. After a full year of distance learning, the schools opened back up and I was able to get back to work, but by then had lost my entire clientele that I had built over years. Going independent with almost no clientele has proven the biggest challenge. However, it has shown just how capable I am to build from scratch and make it on my own. It’s exciting every time a new client books with me, and that feeling really affirms I’m right where I’m supposed to be. I’m proud to be an example of doing the scary thing, taking the risk, and seeing it become something magical. I am not exactly where I want to be, but I’m beyond proud of myself for getting that much closer.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Bare by Liz is located at the Acacia Salon in the beautiful La Jolla Cove area. A salon by the sea specializing in all things self-care. I have a passion for and specialize in Brazilian waxing. I make it my mission to make every client as comfortable as possible for what can sometimes be a vulnerable service to have. I’ve recently added new services to include eyebrow lamination and eyelash lifts. It’s awesome to be able to add new services and continue to grow as an esthetician on my own terms. I truly love what I do and enjoy building relationships with my clients as well. Many do end up friends. I’m lucky to have the clients that I do.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Surrounding myself with ambitious, growth-oriented people has been major for me. I’m so lucky to have an incredible group of friends who support me, challenge me, and believe in me -sometimes more than I believe in myself.
Pricing:
- First Time Guest Special Brazilian Wax – 2 for 75
- Brazilian Wax – 50
- Eyebrow Lamination – 75
Contact Info:
- Email: Barebyliz@gmail.com
- Website: www.barebyliz.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/barebyliz/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/barebyliz/
