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Daily Inspiration: Meet Ashley Whited

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Whited. 

Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
The first job I had was a receptionist at a salon in Twinsburg, OH at 15 years old. Ever since I’ve continuously found myself in the salon/spa environment. Something about watching guests leave with a smile on their face made me feel so happy for them. It wasn’t until 2015 that I found myself interested in the Esthiology realm. I wasn’t aware, until working at a local spa as a front desk coordinator, that estheticians existed and the amazing work and help, they provided clients. I was in awe. From that point, I knew I wanted to provide that for people. 2016 I was accepted into the Douglas J Aveda Esthiology program. The beginning of 2017, I graduated and received my license, and immediately began perfecting my craft. With my background and passion for customer service and my newfound love of esthetics, I knew that I would eventually like to open a facility of my own. This dream became a reality in 2022! After working, building a clientele of amazing people, meeting and befriending so many industry workers, I had the support and drive to make this possible. Solasta was born with the support from so many friends and family. At Solasta, we strive to not only provide the best services west Michigan has to offer, but we strive to be a place of safety, calm, and love. We understand that in today’s society, so many outside factors can be overwhelming and even scary. Solasta is about escaping the real world and dedicating time to care for yourself. With customer well-being and safety being a top priority, we at solasta guarantee that you will never have to feel anxiety about coming to your appointments; something that has personally burdened me in the past. I acknowledge that sometimes coming into a new place can feel overwhelming. With silent service options available, complimentary tea and snacks, and a full tour of the establishment upon arrival, you will never feel unwelcome. 

Myself and the staff at Solasta are truly passionate about our industry and the services we offer. We look forward to continuous growth and serving all in the Southwest Michigan area! 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Nothing in life is ever easy, and if it is, you aren’t challenging yourself! Years of learning has made for a long road of growth, but it’s been well worth it. Opening a space has proven to be… stressful… but again, hard work and dedication always has shown me that it’s worth the tears that sometimes come with being a business owner. I strive to be someone my family can be proud of and someone my daughters can look up to. I’ll take the stress of being a business owner if that means my daughters are proud of me. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a licensed Esthetican and the proud Owner and Founder of Solasta Spa, Salon, and Wellness. 

I specialize in non-toxic skincare and skin revision. A true passion of mine is providing clients with non-toxic and safe skincare options. So many clients have allergies or certain auto-immune diseases that make finding safe skincare a hard task. I offer that option to all, as well as Fantastic results! 

Becoming a Spa/Salon owner is a new chapter that I am so excited for. I have a desire to grow and lead many industry professionals and to showcase their passion and craft as well as my own. I, however, couldn’t have done this huge leap without the help, support, and love from my amazing partner and husband who sat right beside me and told me I needed to make this move. My daughter and another little one on the way, always make me want to be the very best version of myself. And of course, my friends, my staff, and many other family members doing the same. 

This is what sets me apart from others. 

My amazing support system and love I receive from family and clients. It is constantly molding me into an owner who wants to do the very best and who promises to deliver the very best. 

Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
My family, my friends, my staff and coworkers, and of course my clients. 

Contact Info:


Image Credits

RebeccaLPhotography

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