Today we’d like to introduce you to Kehau Rebolledo.
Kehau, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My story was an unexpected surprise, a hidden potential discovered by a fellow employee who happened to be The Director of the Massage Program at my last job: Bellus Academy Poway. The conversation turned quickly when he asked me, “Have you ever thought about Massage?” Thrown off guard and a bit embarrassed that my knowledge of Massage was based off very little experience. I responded, “not really but I was the one people would sit in front of in High School so I could rub their shoulders.” He then told me, “You should think about taking the program, I think you’d be great at it!” His energy and positive encouragement had me answer with, “Well if you’re my teacher then I’d be happy to take the program!”
However, I wasn’t sure how attending as a student would work because I was an employee so I spoke to my Supervisor. She immediately said, “Absolutely! You’d be the first to work here before becoming a student, as most of our Alumni work here after completing school.” I expressed my interest in taking the morning class, as to have the Director as my instructor and she happily agreed as I could then work evenings. My journey included working with the company for almost 2 and a half years which during that time, it took 8 months to complete the 1,000-hour HHP (Holistic Health Practitioner) program and I received my license. Having the opportunity to manage and lead the front desk, as their Lead Experience Coordinator and be a full-time student created a better insight at the corporate office, as I went above and beyond my position and assisted my Supervisor(s), staff, students and clients.
As well as working closely with Accounting & Marketing to keep us in line with our other locations: El Cajon, National City & Kansas. Developing a closer relationship made a smooth run, making each department flow nicely for everyone. This encouraged my idea of having my own business so after much consideration, I decided to be like Nike’s slogan and “just do it!” Taking everything I learned, I found my first office in Banker’s Hill and subleased it with a fellow Therapist. Plus, took the opportunity to work at a Spa in Coronado. Building my clientele was a slow process but I expected that so it wasn’t a surprise. Just took things as it came so I could enjoy the journey by using what worked and be able to learn from what didn’t.
Luckily, I had been invited to a business luncheon by fellow alumni to meet with other women entrepreneurs new to the industry and we had the pleasure of meeting guest speaker: Andrea Kane who would provide tips and insights to starting a business (or) as an independent Spa/Beauty/Massage professional. After our meeting, we all exchanged business cards to stay in touch and/or help each other grow. After a few months of not having an actual parking lot or elevator access at my current office, I ended up reaching out to one of the attendees. As it was advised, she sublease her office as to better utilize it when she’s working elsewhere. It happened to be perfect, as she had just made an ad to see if anyone would be interested in subleasing her office! Having already met and had a mutual friend, we agreed to meet and discuss the details.
We connected right away and couldn’t be more excited to help each other! So, I moved my location to Mission Valley with her. We shared the office for 3yrs+ until she needed to move, which we both made sure to make the transition as smooth as possible so that I could stay and have the lease in my name. My time at the Spa in Coronado ended after a short 5mos, as we both agreed that not enough hours were needed and I wanted to expand my business so we have kept in touch for future opportunities. Being settled at my new office, I shared (as always) my news/updates etc with my mom. It was then I had an idea of doing Chair Massage at an office and what better way than to start somewhere familiar by starting at her building. I pitched the idea and she was enticed by it, as she was currently updating their Wellness Program.
Being the Human Resources Director, she just needed to get the Managers approval and we could have a test run. We agreed to see how things would turn out after a month and it definitely exceeded expectations. Beyond grateful to say, I’ve been working with them as an independent contractor for over 4yrs and still going. During my time there, I’ve had many of their employees come to my office for full sessions and the referrals have continued to grow and expanded my business. I’ve even been given an event opportunity by one of their employees that supported Randy’s Children’s hospital. Plus my fellow boss babe and best friend, Leilani Angel has included me in events to support A Reason to Survive (ARTS), stop human trafficking and The American Cancer Society (ACS).
Networking and attending social events aren’t usually my comfort zone but it has helped get my name and A Touch of Aloha Sanctuary out there and I couldn’t be more thrilled and more willing to participate in more in events for more learning opportunities, especially when they support amazing causes. The opportunities have expanded with other offices participating in Chair Massage so it’s allowed me to gain more experience and customize as need be. As I get closer to celebrating my 5yr Anniversary, I am reminded of my client’s belief in my work and their consistent support as a professional. I’ve gained much more than a business… but a family in health and wellness
Great, 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?
Although I’ve felt quite lucky how things have worked out, my road was definitely not smooth. It’s not supposed to be and I expected it to not be easy but I told myself that if I try something and it doesn’t work, I can change it. The ultimate reward is knowing how grateful you are for the challenges you come across.
Consider obstacles as “learning opportunities” and create a better outcome for yourself, your business and your team. Asking for help invites a lot of opinions but what feels “right” to you assists with setting the tone for how you want people to view the quality of your service and your company.
After booking sessions with different companies, independent professionals or trading over the years, I learned that by putting myself in the client’s position has been a great tool to help figure out what I liked and/or didn’t and applied whatever changes (if any) to my business.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about A Touch of Aloha Sanctuary – what should we know?
Being a Massage Therapist, I’m goal oriented to treat each client with a proper consultation. As well as provide treatment planning and guidance towards a healthy well being. Introduced to Western & Eastern philosophies integrated with modalities including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports Therapy, Pre-Natal, Lomi Lomi, Cupping Therapy and Chair Massage. As well as, using neuromuscular therapies, lymphatic drainage and spa therapies with an emphasis on wellness and prevention by incorporating massage as a natural preventative method of care.
In doing so, I’ve created better body awareness for my clients and assisted in their continued progress as to improve their quality of life which is the most rewarding part in my profession and what I strive to provide. My attention to detail is key and done by communicating with clients, ensuring that I’m listening to their concerns and explaining how progress can be achieved.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
If you do not already have connections or a mentor, I highly recommend participating in events. You just never know who you’re going to meet. As for networking, referrals is what has worked best for me. Spread the word to your friends and family and give them your business cards!
Pricing:
- First Time Clients: $50/hr
- First Time Clients: $75/90min
- Regular Price: $65/hr
- Regular Price: $90/90min
- Customized Sessions: Price Varies, depending on time preference
- Mobile Services: Starts @ $75/hr then could go up, depending on location
- Chair Massage: $1/minute, minimum required
Contact Info:
- Address: 2801 Camino Del Rio S. Ste. 204-6
San Diego, CA. 92108 - Website: www.atouchofalohasanctuary.com
- Phone: 619-356-0232
- Email: kehaurebolledo@gmail.com
- Instagram: ATOA_Sanctuary13
Image Credit:
Main photo: Racquel Castillo
ACS show (dark blue scrubs): http://cfphotog.smugmug.
Getting in touch: SDVoyager 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.
