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

Hi Evie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Valle Atelier Skin came about very organically. I struggled with acne, eczema and dermatitis for many years and because of it spent a lot of time in the weeds – studying the skin, trying out new products, learning all I could about internal wellness. I thought I was going to work in the art world, but kept esthetician school in the back of my mind. I finally felt pulled to enter this space and at the same time had several people reflect to me that I should be in a role that focuses on healing and aesthetics. As soon as I started esthetician school, everything fell into line. Starting a business felt natural but also intentional. I focus on putting one foot in front of the other each day and make sure to approach this line of work with thoughtfulness, not rushing into anything and staying open to opportunities.

What should our readers know about your business?
Prior to Valle Atelier Skin, I ventured into different career paths in hospitality, fashion and art. I love all of these realms but was a connoisseur of all things wellness and felt a desire to incorporate my inclination for nurturing and caretaking into my work. Last year it dawned on me that the role of an esthetician seamlessly fuses my interests and I see clearly now that each experience informed the next and led me to start my business.

I have experienced imposter syndrome and a lot of nerves as a relatively reserved person, but remind myself every day that I am committed to supporting others on their journey to healthy, vibrant skin and to the most aligned version of themselves. I feel grateful that I can blend all aspects of myself into my work and incorporate my love of design, lifestyle and holistic wellbeing. I have many goals and would love to expand into oncology esthetics in the near future.

To me, Valle stands for valley, a source of nourishment and a place to rest before trekking up the mountains of life. Atelier means workshop, a place to learn, create and engage. My hope is to provide my clients with a space to feel calm, centered and at ease in their own skin.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love any photo exhibition at The Getty Museum or Olympic Spa for a day of relaxation. I can always go for a cappuccino from Caffe Luxe, the ham and cheese croissant from Farmshop and a walk along the Palisades Bluffs. Drinks at Hotel Bel-Air, and dinner at Taverna Tony in Malibu or Cobi’s in Santa Monica. Lastly, I always recommend an acupuncture session at Resonant Healing followed by lunch at Topanga Living Cafe!

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?
I would love to shoutout other estheticians, healers and caretakers! This work requires a lot of clarity, space holding and emotional compassion. Building a brand and business is no easy feat and I am inspired by the kind words of others in this industry.

Website: https://valleatelier.com

Instagram: @valleatelierskin

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.