Today we’d like to introduce you to Octavia Reliford.
Hi Octavia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey in the beauty industry spans over 15 years, starting as a freelance makeup artist in Hollywood, where I worked on various video and movie sets, commercials, and photo shoots. However, as much as I enjoyed the artistic side of makeup, I was always concerned about the negative impact it had on people’s skin in the long run. This concern inspired me to seek out a career in skincare therapy.
To achieve my goal, I enrolled in one of the most prestigious aesthetics institutes in Los Angeles, California. The rigorous training I received there equipped me with the knowledge and skills I needed to become a skincare expert. Upon graduation, I secured a job at an upscale medspa where I had the privilege of serving a high-end clientele, including many celebrities.
My husband, who was a barber, and I then made the bold decision to franchise a business called Hair Architects. Together, we offered hair and skin care services, which proved to be a successful venture. However, the outbreak of COVID-19 led us to move in a different direction and we moved to Atlanta.
Despite the challenges I have faced along the way, I remain passionate about helping people achieve healthy, beautiful skin, and I am constantly exploring new ways to do so.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The Covid-19 pandemic presented significant obstacles and challenges for me as a skincare professional. The service industry, in general, was hit hard by the pandemic, and my business was no exception. The initial shutdown was a scary and uncertain time that changed our world forever.
The aftermath of the shutdown was equally devastating, with a significant decrease in business. Many people were afraid to leave their homes or come into close contact with others for fear of contracting the virus. As a result, many clients canceled their appointments, and new bookings were scarce.
Navigating the unknown was a daunting task, but I remained committed to my passion for skincare and my clients. I had to find new and creative ways to connect with my clients, such as offering virtual consultations and education sessions. I also had to adapt to the changing landscape by implementing strict safety measures to ensure the health and well-being of both myself and my clients.
Thankfully, as we became more educated about the virus, business began to pick up again. People started to realize that taking care of their skin was still essential, even during a pandemic. I am grateful to have weathered the storm and come out the other side stronger and more resilient. The challenges I faced during the pandemic have taught me the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and most importantly, the value of a supportive community.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a skincare professional, I specialize in skin rejuvenation, and my services include a range of treatments such as facials, chemical peels, micro-needling, RF micro-needling, IPL, VI peels, laser hair removal, Hydrafacials, oxygen treatments, cryoskin facials, and cryoskin slimming and toning. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve their skincare goals, and I am committed to providing them with the best possible results.
What sets me apart from others in the field is my focus on individualized treatment. I understand that every person’s skin is unique and requires a personalized approach. Therefore, I take the time to evaluate each client’s skin before recommending any treatment. I ensure that my clients understand the benefits and potential risks of each treatment so that they can make informed decisions.
In addition to my expertise, professionalism is of utmost importance to me. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where my clients feel comfortable and at ease. I am committed to providing the highest level of service and ensuring that my clients are satisfied with their results.
Overall, my approach to skincare is centered around achieving the best possible outcomes for my clients while treating them with the utmost respect and professionalism.
What matters most to you? Why?
For me, skincare is more than just a job or a business; it is a genuine passion. What matters most to me is helping others feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. Educating people about skin health is an essential part of this process, as it empowers them to take control of their skin’s appearance and overall well-being.
I find joy in sharing my knowledge and expertise with my clients and teaching them about the science and ingredients behind the products they use. Seeing their faces light up with newfound understanding and enthusiasm about their skincare routine is truly gratifying. Helping people make informed decisions about their skincare is incredibly rewarding, as it allows them to achieve their desired results and feel more confident in their own skin.
Ultimately, what matters most to me is making a positive impact on others’ lives. By helping people improve their skin health, I am contributing to their overall well-being and helping them feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin. This is why skincare is not just a career for me; it is my passion and my purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tbcmedspa.com
- Instagram: flawlessskinbyoctavia
