Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/691743
64 july/august 2016 ASCP & you I AM ASCP Golden Girl This longtime ASCP member thinks big in a small Colorado town CAN YOU RECALL THE MOMENT YOU FIRST FELL IN LOVE WITH SKIN CARE? In 1997, a girlfriend of mine suggested I come work with her at her salon in Conifer, Colorado, because she was in need of an esthetician. I was modeling at the time and raising 7-year-old twins, and I needed fl exibility in my profession. I called another girlfriend who had been in the spa business for more than 20 years and she said, "I never thought of it before, but you would be perfect." I fell in love with the idea before I even went to school, thanks to two very good friends. WHAT FIRST COMPELLED YOU TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS? I come from a long line of entrepreneurs, so the idea of opening my own business did not frighten me. I leased a small room in a friend's salon and my business exploded. At the time, there were only two estheticians in the area (it's a bit more competitive now). I fell in love with the clients and the nurturing nature of the business, and the work was very gratifying and results- oriented. It didn't take long before I outgrew that space. I then opened my own business in a commercial building in the same town; that led to opening a full-service spa four years later and hiring seven employees. WHAT IS A TYPICAL WORKDAY LIKE FOR YOU? A typical workday for me begins with deciding what to wear in the morning. I know that sounds a little shallow, but I'm a fi rm believer that I refl ect my business and I'm always striving to look and do my best. I have been fortunate to employ some great women who feel the same, and who are great refl ections of Zoe Skin Care & Boutique. My philosophy is "if you're a success, then I'm a success." I arrive early every morning to return calls and make sure the rooms are ready for the day's clients. WHAT SKIN CARE TREND ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT? I'm extremely excited about the choices estheticians have today. I have incorporated certifi ed organic products and more aggressive medical-grade products and peels into my practice. I have a little bit of everything for everybody. HOW DO YOU CONTINUE TO EVOLVE WITHIN THE PROFESSION? Fortunately, my vendors provide excellent continuing education classes and there is so much available on the web. My staff and I sign up for webinars and take classes that interest us or that I feel will further our education. I have my certifi cation as a laser specialist, but prefer the "hands-on" holistic work as an esthetician. This profession found me, and even after 18 years in the business, I still love going to work every morning. CATHERINE ZOE PLANT Certifi ed medical esthetician; licensed laser technician; owner of Zoe Skin Care & Boutique Golden, CO ASCP Member Since 1998