Today we’d like to introduce you to Chinita Menefee.
Hi Chinita, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Chicago, IL and moved to Milwaukee, WI when I was 13. Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to be in the beauty industry. I would play in my grandmother’s makeup and model up and down the hallways in our home. After HS, I pursued a career in the medical field and did that for over ten years. During that time, I started venturing out doing makeup as a side job. I remember having a talk with my maternal grandma seeing as though we were so close, about taking a leap of faith and moving to Georgia with my daughter at the time. I knew that I would eventually feel comfortable enough to switch careers; it would be in my best interest to move to a state that was huge in the beauty industry. My daughter who was four at the time had also gotten into some modeling, so it was the best decision.
Unfortunately, shortly after my grandma passed away. I always said that if and when I opened up my first spa it would be dedicated to her. It wasn’t until I was pregnant with my second child that I went to school to become an Esthetician. I had it in my mind that now is the time to start that generational wealth for my children. After working for a few Waxing salons and doing mobile services, I finally opened up my spa “Nu Beaute Spa” The name came about because I love to empower women. Can you imagine as a woman just having one of those days and you can just go to your favorite spa, unwind, relax, have girl talk and leave feeling refreshed and like a new beauty? Yeah, lol that’s the type of environment and place of peace that I set out to create. I want women to know that you are worthy, you are beautiful, I’m your sister and you can always feel comfortable and count on me to fix your crown. My place is beautifully decorated with the color lavender. That was my grandma’s favorite color and it brings peace and joy once you enter.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This has not been an easy road. Opening up your business has so many struggles that you think you are ready for but have no idea. One of the biggest challenges was opening a business during Covid. I’m in the field that is client-based. There was a time when people were afraid to leave their house yet alone trying to go get a facial or wax, it just wasn’t a necessity for some. Not having the clients can be rough financially. I remember times just crying in my car, questioning myself if I’m making the right move, etc. I can honestly say knowing that this is my passion and that I have a bigger mission to complete, I knew I had to keep going. Looking at my two beautiful children, I had to wipe my tears and hold onto my faith.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m currently a Licensed Esthetician. I specialize in Brazilian waxes, facials, yoni steams. My spa offers so many different services for women and men to choose from. I also offer late hours. Most working people work a 9-5. We all know how Atlanta traffic can be. I wanted to make sure I’m available for the everyday working woman and Mom. I’m mostly proud of my ambition and dedication. I’m so proud of myself. I manifested opening up my spa and I did it. It’s just the beginning and it’s only going to grow from here.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the fact that everyone here is different. Atlanta is the place to be if you want to grow your business and network. Having a black-owned business at that, I wouldn’t want to be in any other city. The one thing I least like about the city is the traffic! You can go 5 miles up the street and it takes you 25 min lol.
Pricing:
- Brazilian Wax $65
- Yoni Steam $60
- Non-Invasive butt lift $125
- Classic Facial $110
- Foot Detox $50
Contact Info:
- Email: Nubeautespa@gmail.com
- Website: www.nubeautespa.com
- Instagram: Nubeautespa
- Facebook: Nu Beaute Salon & Spa
