Today we’d like to introduce you to Mayra Cortes.
Mayra, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Initially what sparked my interest was a video I saw on the internet of a girl waxing her underarms. I was so fascinated by the idea of not having to shave everyday and how great her skin looked afterwards. I went out that very evening and bought a waxing kit from my local Sally’s and my waxing journey began. It was a horrible first few tries but I didn’t give up. I watched more videos, read a couple articles and it got a little better. I began researched courses to specifically learn how to wax but learned I had to become an esthetician. I attended Aveda in 2019 and became a certified esthetician in 2020. During this time Covid had put a halt on a lot of things, including me becoming a waxer, forcing me to work in banking. Throughout the time I was in banking I continued to learn and dedicate my spare time to waxing. I watched countless videos, read many articles, waxed a couple of friends/family, and tested out several different wax brands. I discovered Nova Wax worked best for me as it was hypoallergenic, gentle on skin, and works on all types of hair (fair to coarse). In October of 2023 I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue my waxing career on my own, Bare Basics Waxing Studio, LLC. I have slowly been growing my clientele, providing my clients with the best waxing experience. In only a year and a couple months I have impacted lives.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When I obtained my licensing Covid was at it peak making its difficult for me to start working in the beauty industry. A couple years later when I decided to take a chance on myself to start my own waxing business it was met with its struggles. Starting a business with no clients can be tough. In the beginning it was difficult to get the word out about my waxing services. Obtaining new clients from scratch takes time and when times were slow doubt made an appearance. I had to put in a lot of effort just to be noticed whether it was social media, networking, or word of mouth. My persistence has (and continues to) grow my clientele, Staying focused and pushing forward onto my long term goals.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My name is Mayra Cortes, I am a full body waxing expert and owner of Bare Basics Waxing Studio LLC. At Bare Basics (for short) I restore women’s confidence. My clients leave each waxing appointment feeling free, refreshed, womanly. I have created a safe place for my clients to be heard, seen, and valued. Women go through so many changes within their bodies, due to many factors, sometimes resulting in unwanted hair in certain areas of their bodies. I take pride in helping women feel their best. It’s always a great feeling knowing I’m an outlet to help women be confident in their skin.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My best advice for networking would be to be confident! Even when you don’t feel confident, FAKE IT. Sometimes we are so scared to feel rejected, foolish, or embarrassed we miss out on opportunities that could open so many doors for us. I was able to locally share my business cards with other small businesses from my neighborhood, post on Instagram (@barebasicisws), and establish connections with individuals. In doing those things it has successfully grown my business in different areas.
Pricing:
- Brazilian – $50
- Underarms – $15
- Eyebrows- $12
Contact Info:
- Website: https://barebasicsws.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barebasicsws
