Meet Simone Acosta

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

Hi Simone, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Intention. This is a service based business and it is a very personal experience for most. Getting a facial or massage can be very daunting for some. It requires contact and connection between the practitioner and the client. There needs to be trust and relinquishing control on the side of the client and this isn’t easy for many. They feel your intention without you even needing to say anything. The moment that client books the service with you, they need to feel your intention is respect, professionalism, and the goal to provide quality. This earns a good reputation and their trust and ensures the client will refer you and keep coming back.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Ironically, I didn’t set out to work in the beauty industry. I worked in retail management for nearly 20 years and was doing facials and lashes to support myself between jobs. But as I developed more as an esthetician, I realized how much my corporate retail backround could be used to accelerate this as a career and made it my focus. I started to realize that beauty wasn’t my main objective, but helping people was. That propelled me to create a more holistic business by becoming a massage therapist as well. My goal was to treat people from the inside out and not just the outside in. My passion grew and defined itself and this sharpened my career objective and allowed much of the business to fall into place. It wasn’t always easy. Developing a client base from nothing really takes patience, passion and drive. But it was something I knew I wanted to develop into more. That is why I call my business Raw, because it is more that just what we put on the outside. It’s our raw selves. The person that is being treated not just skin and muscle.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am by nature an introvert, so I love introverted places. I can always be found in bookstores, botanical gardens or coffee shops. Those are my “go to” places. I’m local to Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley so my list of places include LA Arboretum, Huntington Library, Vroman’s Bookstore. The Black Vanilla latte at Republik Coffee in Pasadena is my secret treat. There are so many small business eateries in Pasadena and around town. Girasol Cocina Mexicana in Monrovia is a favorite spot to have a breakfast my grandma would be proud of. They have delicious Cafe de olla.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost my husband, He never wavered or questioned my business ideas and let me fly with full support in all my decisions. He is physically, mentally and emotionally present to help me whenever I needed it. Second, my mom. She exposed me to the world of holistic health. She has supported and helped guide me in many ways but being a mentor in the industry as well since she has been a massage therapist for almost 30 years. Having her support and experience has greatly sharpened my skills and confidence. Thirdly, my friends who supported my journey in the beginning. They hired me and referred me and it really helped me get my start. For that, I am truly grateful.

Website: https://www.rawbeautyandwellness.com

Instagram: @rawbeauty_andwellness

Image Credits
Douglas Acosta