Meet Heather Witt | Founder of The Aesthetic Retreat

We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Witt and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Heather, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Southern California has seen a boom in medspas over the years, but there are still misconceptions about injectables and the aesthetic treatments that places like The Aesthetic Retreat offer. Botox and fillers are not just for overly-plumped “housewives” anymore. We are breaking down those old stigmas by educating our clients about the products and services we offer and how to achieve natural and subtle results.
We treat everyone including men, moms, young professionals and more. We believe everyone should look and feel their best without compromising the features that make them unique and beautiful. Many men, for instance, are seeking out Botox and Dysport to achieve a more rested look as well as fillers to define their chin and jaw. Those who aren’t familiar with our industry would be surprised by the number of men, and people in general, who book these types of treatments, and that’s the really whole point. The results shouldn’t be over-the-top obvious. I always say, the best injectable is undetectable! Every client, no matter who they are, just wants to look like the best version of themselves.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
You would be surprised to hear that I was a college dropout! I obtained my esthetician license in my home state of Wisconsin and began working for a facial plastic surgeon. It is here that I discovered the world of aesthetics and my passion! I went on to receive my master’s degree from the Western University of Health Sciences before embarking on my career as a board-certified Physician Assistant and advanced aesthetic injector. I have always had an entrepreneurial drive, so when I launched The Aesthetic Retreat, I was excited to see where the road would take me. As scary as it was, I was ready to tackle the challenge and start a new kind of practice that specializes in natural-looking results, providing honest and ethical advice, and creating the best experience to relax and indulge patients. This is exactly why each patient is greeted with a hot aromatherapy towel, they can wait in our relaxation room with heated massage lounges, and our staff will even make a customized latte for them. I’m beyond proud that we’ve accomplished just that in the short year and a half that we’ve been open.
My education, constant drive to sharpen my skills, and willingness to learn and adapt has been a major factor in my success. The aesthetic industry is constantly evolving and if you aren’t growing with it, then you’ll be left behind. I love attending industry conferences and participating in training where I get to geek out on the latest and greatest in skincare and injecting practices. I am excited and honored to be speaking at my first conference, Aesthetic Next, this fall. I also love meeting other women entrepreneurs, sharing my experiences and knowledge, and learning from them as well.
On a personal and professional level, my biggest motivation is my 3-year-old daughter, Olivia. I want to show her that women can do anything they set their mind to if they work hard, treat others with kindness, and stay true to themselves. Being a business owner and a single mom hasn’t been easy, but watching her grow into the strong-spirited little girl that she is has been the greatest reward.
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?
I love myself a great brunch or delicious happy hour cocktail. I’m a foodie and cocktail lover at heart, so if you speak “food,” you have my heart! Some of my favorite brunch spots are Breakfast Republic; go for their french toast sampler, Juliette’s; right below our office, they have the best croissant breakfast sandwich you will ever eat and they make all their latte syrups homemade, and Tupelo Junction for a unique, quaint atmosphere with delicious southern comfort food. For cocktails, you can’t beat Topside Roof Deck. It’s a vibe, that’s all I can say! For a margarita that packs a strong punch, Gracias Madre is your place. And finally, I could go on forever, Oak and Coal gives speakeasy vibes while offering delicious small plates and unique handcrafted cocktails.
Although I can be a bit of a girly-girl at times, I actually am the biggest tomboy. I’m not the best with fashion, and my hair is usually in a disheveled bun half the time, but I love getting outdoors and doing something active. Living in Orange County, a bike ride down the boardwalk is a must, but southern California also offers some of the prettiest hikes that you have to check out.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to my daughter Olivia who inspires me everyday!
Website: theaestheticretreat.com
Instagram: the.aesthetic.retreat
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-aesthetic-retreat-newport-beach
