Today we’d like to introduce you to Angela Lark.
Hi Angela, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was first introduced to the world of Sugar Hair Removal at a skincare show in Long Beach back in 2007. At the time, I was 38 years old and embarking on a new career as an esthetician. Having previously worked in sales and becoming a mother at 36, I sought a flexible career path that allowed me to work independently. While I hadn’t initially considered a career in esthetics, I had a passion for connecting with women one-on-one, along with prior experience in skincare and cosmetic sales.
Before that show, my knowledge of sugar hair removal was limited, only vaguely mentioned in our educational materials as an alternative to waxing. However, after experiencing a sugaring demonstration and witnessing the remarkable results, I couldn’t help but wonder, ‘Why isn’t this the leading method of hair removal?’ It was as if I saw a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, an unexpected vision that fueled my determination.
I felt certain that I had stumbled upon something groundbreaking. Personally, traditional waxing didn’t suit me; I once left a waxing session halfway through because the results were less than desirable. Sugar hair removal was different; it was less painful, didn’t involve heat, left no residue, and was eco-friendly. The hair was removed in the natural direction of growth with a simple flick of the wrist, eliminating the need for strips and the associated skin pulling.
What captivated me even more was the rich history of sugaring, an ancient Egyptian hair removal technique that stood as the oldest method known. I found all of this incredibly fascinating, and I couldn’t fathom why anyone would choose waxing over sugaring if they were aware of the option.
Eager to learn and promote this method, I promptly became certified through the industry’s leader, Alexandria Professional. However, despite my certification, finding employment proved challenging. Spas were closing due to market crashes, and many didn’t even recognize sugaring. They advised me to return once I had waxing experience. Undeterred, I continued honing my skills and had the privilege of working with Lina Kennedy, the CEO, at her sugaring studio in West L.A. in 2009.
While working at Lina’s studio part-time, I began establishing my reputation in Santa Clarita, located around 30 miles away. In 2010, I founded the Sweetest Skin Company. As I had planned, I worked for Lina for a year while gaining recognition in the SCV community. I even received the ‘Best Of’ award for hair removal in our community magazine. With the help of an exceptional marketing director, I started building my brand. It was a time of hustle and determination. When you venture into self-employment, you must hustle, possess a strong passion, and hold a clear vision of your goals.
Fast forward to 2015, I opened a brick-and-mortar spa with two rooms, just a couple of miles from my initial one-room space within a hair salon. Keep in mind that I had no prior business experience aside from what I had learned along the way. I was more comfortable in a front-of-house role, connecting with people. I faced challenges with employee turnover, hiring the right management team, and lacking a strategic plan. Although some policies and procedures were in place, they weren’t sufficient for a successful operation. At that time, I wasn’t the best leader either. Many of my valuable business lessons were learned through serious mistakes.
Today, that two-room spa has grown into a four-room spa, and we recently opened a second two-room location in a wellness center across town. None of this would have been possible without the incredible group of passionate, hardworking, dedicated, and talented women who work alongside me today.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As I previously mentioned, every decision I’ve made, even if viewed as a mistake, has contributed to my growth, and I deeply appreciate the learning experiences.
In 2013, I launched a modest establishment in the Thousand Oaks area on behalf of an associate who was at the time both a budding entrepreneur and a new mother. I was confident in her ability to foster a clientele base under the ‘Sweetest Skin’ brand. The growth trajectory mirrored mine, and within a year, her business was thriving.
By 2015, when I expanded to Newhall, I employed additional staff to ensure broader service availability. However, one challenge we encountered was the absence of a dedicated management team and front desk at this location. This direct client-staff interaction, over time, gave some employees a sense of entitlement. Despite contractual agreements, a few decided to venture out independently, taking with them a significant portion of our clientele. This was further exacerbated in 2017 when an employee who served at both the Newhall and Thousand Oaks locations departed, again taking a number of clients with her. This departure was particularly concerning, as it was discovered she had been soliciting clients in anticipation of her departure without my knowledge.
While I fully understand the value of client loyalty, I believe there are ethical standards that should be upheld in professional transitions. I’ve always prided myself on upholding these standards and operating with integrity.
To counter the financial strain this caused, I secured a loan with a significant interest rate. This loan demanded swift repayment within a year, and through sheer determination and resilience, I managed to fulfill this obligation!
“Shortly after securing the loan, I was unexpectedly served with legal documents from an individual who had never patronized either of my establishments. The claim was regarding our website’s lack of voice capability for visually impaired individuals. We later discovered this individual had legal representation and had been targeting major corporations with similar suits. Thankfully, a valued friend and client, who is also an attorney, assisted in resolving this matter, saving my business from potential financial ruin.
Despite the upward trajectory of the business, 2022 posed a significant challenge. Within a week, all three of my estheticians resigned. It was later uncovered that two of them had been covertly courting clients with plans to establish their own venture merely two miles away. This was a direct violation of their contracts, which prohibited them from starting a similar enterprise within an eight-mile radius. Their departures were abrupt and left a month’s worth of appointments unattended, a move I consider both unprofessional and unethical. Moreover, they shared proprietary information with third parties, including sensitive financial data. This compelled me to initiate legal action, particularly after they disregarded a cease and desist order.
Due to the demands of the business and the pressing need to rebuild my team, the legal proceedings were momentarily postponed. Upon eventually filing the case in small claims court (largely due to financial constraints preventing external legal representation), I was contacted by the producers of the “Judy Justice” show on Amazon. They expressed interest in my case, deeming it compelling amidst the many they review daily. To summarize, I pursued legal action against the most egregious offender and emerged victorious.
In the aftermath, I implemented crucial changes. I appointed a highly competent general manager, elevated our front desk supervisor to an assistant managerial position, and promoted our new front desk associate, who is also a licensed esthetician, to a lead role. These strategic decisions have culminated in the formation of the dedicated and exceptional team I am privileged to work with today.”
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My company, Sweetest Skin Company, operates with a foundational vision: to serve all individuals in an environment that is not only safe and professional but also welcoming. We place the highest value on inclusivity, ensuring that no distinction is made based on gender, race, or physical capabilities. Our history of extensive service to the LGBTQIA community is a testament to our belief that all individuals are of equal importance.
Our specialty lies in sugar hair removal. In 2016, I was honored to be recognized as a national educator for Alexandria Professional. However, due to our flourishing business, my educational endeavors have been largely confined to in-house certifications.
Our range of services extends to vegan airbrush tanning, natural vegan-effective skin lightening, and exceptional facial treatments.
Every esthetician at Sweetest Skin Company brings a unique set of skills to the table, complemented by their inherent joy, compassion, and care. While I lead this establishment, its success is undeniably a collective effort. I owe much of our achievements to the team’s dedication, professionalism, and adherence to ethical standards. Their commitment has solidified our reputation in the community as a trusted and esteemed skincare provider.
I must highlight the efforts of our Marketing Director, Therese Edwards, who has been instrumental in shaping our brand’s identity. Both our general manager and assistant manager have innovated consistently to engage our audience across social media platforms, fostering B2B relationships and enhancing our rapport with our valued clients.
The team’s dedication to upholding our vision and mission has been unparalleled. Their influence has been pivotal in actualizing our commitment to inclusivity.
Given the current economic landscape, marked by inflationary pressures and other challenges, we’ve ensured that our service pricing and package offers remain competitive, reflecting both market conditions and our unwavering commitment to quality.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I have been privileged to be guided by outstanding mentors throughout my career. Lina Kennedy, Founder and CEO of Alexandria Professional, has been a constant source of inspiration and guidance. Even today, she remains a cherished friend and mentor. Her approach to business and her remarkable perspective on life have significantly influenced my business ethos and success trajectory.
Therese Edwards, whom I mentioned earlier, has been instrumental in refining the direction of my career. Her strategic input last year, especially during the staff recruitment phase, has been pivotal in molding Sweetest Skin Company into the brand it is today.
I cannot fail to acknowledge the unwavering support from my mother, an eternal optimist regardless of life’s challenges. Her regular affirmations of pride have been a constant source of motivation. Equally, my three sisters, two of whom are entrepreneurs themselves, have consistently provided encouragement and exemplified dedication and resilience.
My daughter, Sara, has been a foundational pillar in my journey. Her own aspirations to become an entrepreneur inspire me daily, and her consistent support, even during challenging periods, has been invaluable.
Sahar, my partner, entered my life during a particularly challenging period. Their unparalleled support, humor, and generosity have played a crucial role in navigating both personal and professional challenges. Their presence continues to bring immeasurable joy and stability to my life.
Furthermore, the continuous support from friends, other mentors, and my current team has been instrumental. They consistently advocate for and believe in my vision. I feel profoundly blessed and am eternally grateful for each of them. Their collective influence not only fosters gratitude but also fuels my excitement and optimism for the company’s future.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Thesweetestskinco.com
- Instagram: Thesweetestskinco
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/thesweetestskinco
- Other: TikTok @thesweetestskinco
Image Credits
Krystal Goden Therese Edwards Brienne Michelle Shepard Dora Garcia
