We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always been a creative person, but I never felt like I fit the traditional mold of the 9-to-5 world. I struggled to find a career path that felt both fulfilling and aligned with who I am. What I did know was that I wanted to help people feel more confident in their own skin, and I wanted the freedom to build something on my own terms. When I discovered esthetics, it all clicked. I fell in love with skincare and the power it has to transform not just skin, but self-esteem. My own struggles with acne led me to become a Certified Acne Expert—I know firsthand how deeply skin concerns can affect someone, and I’m passionate about guiding clients through that journey. That passion expanded into lash lifts and brow services, which allow me to bring out my clients’ natural beauty in a way that’s both fun and impactful. Starting Amanda Taylor Esthetics was my way of blending creativity, purpose, and independence into something meaningful, and almost five years later, I’m still just as inspired!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At Amanda Taylor Esthetics, I specialize in results-driven skincare with a personalized approach—especially acne treatment, customized facials, and lash and brow services. As a Certified Acne Expert, I work closely with clients to clear their skin while also educating them on sustainable habits and routines they can maintain long-term. What sets my studio apart is the experience I’ve created: it’s not just about skincare—it’s about care. I take the time to really listen to my clients, to understand their skin goals, and to build trust. I know what it’s like to struggle with acne firsthand, so my approach is rooted in empathy, education, and results. I care a lot about the client’s experience, and look to build a relationship with each one. I think it’s important to give every client 100%, not to judge anyone based on appearance, age, gender, race, where they live, etc.

I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built and the transformations I’ve been able to be a part of, not just in skin, but in confidence. Seeing someone walk out glowing, inside and out, is the most rewarding feeling!! I know first hand how much a condition like acne can take on ones self confidence, so I always strive to make my clients comfortable and heard every step of the way.

Getting to where I am today definitely wasn’t easy. Starting a business at a young age, without a roadmap, was scary. There were slow seasons, burnout, self-doubt, and moments where I questioned everything. But I kept showing up, kept learning, and kept putting my clients first. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that consistency beats perfection! You don’t have to have it all figured out—you just have to keep going and stay passionate about your “why.”

What I want the world to know about Amanda Taylor Esthetics is that it’s more than just a skincare studio—it’s a safe, supportive space where people can feel seen, cared for, and confident in their own skin. I’ve built my business from the ground up with heart, intention, and a lot of hustle! I also love to put my own personal touches of what I love in my business- I have a beautiful, under-the-sea inspired treatment room that is inspired by a life long love of mermaids, and the ocean. Client’s love my little grotto undersea oasis, and I love treating them in it !

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
f my best friend was visiting for the week, I’d plan a fun mix of relaxing, eating amazing food, and exploring some of my favorite local gems in and around Westlake Village. We’d definitely start the trip with a cozy morning coffee at Five07 Coffee Bar—they have the best vibe and lattes. Then, of course, a visit to Amanda Taylor Esthetics for a facial or lash lift would be a must—I mean, what’s a girls’ trip without a glow-up?

We’d spend an afternoon at Westlake Lake for a peaceful walk or even rent paddle boats, then grab lunch at The Stonehaus, where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. For dinner, we’d head to Lure Fish House for fresh seafood or Boccaccio’s for lakeside Italian.

One day we’d road trip to Malibu—brunch at Malibu Farm, walk along the beach, and maybe end the day watching the sunset at El Matador Beach. I’d also make sure we hit up The Commons in Calabasas for shopping and people-watching, and maybe spot a celeb or two.

For a fun night out, The Twisted Oak Tavern has a great casual vibe and local brews, or Mediterraneo if we’re feeling fancy. And for a chill day, we could hang out at Gardens of the World or hike the Santa Monica Mountains trails for those amazing views.

Westlake and the surrounding areas are full of low-key luxury, good food, and beautiful scenery—perfect for recharging and reconnecting. It’s the kind of place where you can do a little bit of everything, and that’s what makes it so special.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely—no one builds something meaningful entirely on their own, and I’ve been so lucky to have incredible people in my corner. First and foremost, I want to shout out my mom. She’s been my biggest cheerleader from day one—always believing in me, even when I doubted myself. Her encouragement gave me the courage to take the leap into business ownership and keep going when things got tough. She helped me through esthetician school, and has always been my first guinea pig whenever I need to try out a new treatment!

I also owe a lot to my clients. They’re truly the heart of my business. Their loyalty, trust, and word-of-mouth support have helped me grow more than any marketing strategy ever could. Many of them have been with me since the very beginning, and I’m endlessly grateful for that!

And of course, I have to recognize my mentors and fellow estheticians in the industry—especially those who generously shared their knowledge and reminded me that there’s space for all of us to thrive. The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and having a supportive community has made all the difference. Community over competition!

This journey has been full of learning curves, but I’ve never felt alone thanks to the people who’ve lifted me up along the way!

Website: https://amandatayloresthetics.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/amandatayloresthetics

Image Credits
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