Today we’re excited to be connecting with Andre Reyes again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.
Andre, always such a pleasure connecting with you and thank you for sharing your stories, insights and inspiring messages with our community. We’re looking forward to getting the download and what you have been up to since our last interview, but first can you briefly introduce yourself to folks who might have missed the prior conversation.
Hi, I’m André Reyes. I’ve had the privilege of owning and running one of Highland Park’s medispas—a unique gem in this vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood. Unlike the typical medical office that can feel cold and sterile, my space was all about warmth and finding the beauty within. Nestled in a beautifully restored 1895 Victorian building overlooking downtown LA, the setting itself reflected what we aimed to do for our clients: preserve and highlight natural beauty.
From the moment you walked in, you were surrounded by antiques—from light fixtures to furniture—that made the space feel more like a cozy home than a clinic. This sense of comfort set us apart, helping our clients feel at ease before their Botox or facial appointments.
I’ve been in the medical field for 13 years, starting in medical clinics, moving on to one of LA’s well-known hospitals, teaching at UCLA, and eventually stepping into the world of medispas in Beverly Hills. At first, I had no idea this field would be my calling, but I quickly realized it was the perfect mix of everything I loved: educating clients, listening to their needs, and providing care—just in a more personal, uplifting environment.
Working at that first medispa, I thought, I can do this. So I did. Over the next several months, I built a dream team and created a space that stood out. Five years later, even through a pandemic, I’m proud to say I succeeded—not just on my own, but with the incredible staff who helped make it happen.
Now, at 33, I’m officially retired from the medispa world and diving into a passion project with my husband. We’ve always had a love for historic preservation—like the Victorian building that housed my medispa—and we’ve restored several properties that let people step back in time. Our latest project? A charming 1886 Bed and Breakfast in the heart of Visalia, CA, just 30 minutes from Sequoia National Park. It’s a labor of love and a way for us to share that same sense of beauty, history, and hospitality with others.
Awesome, so we reached out because we wanted to hear all about what you have been up to since we last connected.
As I mentioned before, I’ve decided to step away from the medical field entirely and take on a fresh challenge in hospitality. My husband, Joshua, has been running an interior design and build business for over 20 years. When we first met eight years ago, I was blown away by his deep knowledge and passion for history—especially the way he could breathe new life into historic properties for his clients.
Over time, I found myself more and more drawn to his work. Restoring these beautiful, historic spaces didn’t just inspire me; it brought so much joy to the people around us. When we bought our first home together—an 1887 Eastlake Victorian—and brought it back to its former glory, it was a game-changer. It had a huge positive impact on both me and our neighborhood.
As we tackled more projects, I became a sponge for everything Joshua was doing, even while I was still thriving in my own career. What do I love most about historic preservation? The end result—getting to sit back and enjoy something we’ve brought to life. What do I love least? Some of the manual labor can be a lot. But honestly, it’s a labor of love, and over the years, I’ve realized this could easily be a lifelong passion for us.
On top of that, we’re in the process of growing our family. The idea of working for ourselves while raising our kids is such a gift. Plus, involving them in this journey—sharing our love for history and restoration—feels like the perfect way to create something meaningful together. Who knows? Maybe they’ll even grow up to share our passion someday.
We also want to give folks a chance to get to know you a bit better so we’ve prepared a fun lightning round of questions. Ready?
- Favorite Movie: Death Becomes Her
- Favorite Book: Call Me By Your Name
- Favorite TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy
- Favorite Band or Artist: Dabeull
- Sweet or Savory: Savory all the way!
- Mountains or Beach: Mountains- love me a good hike!
- Favorite Sport (to watch): Baseball- Go Dodgers!
- Favorite Sport (to play): Tennis
- Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): My parents had me try it all; Soccer, baseball, tennis, bowling
- As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: A business owner / Doctor
- French Fries or Onion Rings: Frites!
- Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Bobby Axelrod
- Favorite Cartoon growing up: Rugrats
- Favorite Childhood movie: Holes
- Favorite Breakfast Food: My dad’s homemade Chilaquiles
What are you most excited about in the coming year?
2024 was a year of growth and reflection for me. At times, it wasn’t easy, but through it all, I made decisions that I know will set the stage for an even stronger 2025. One of the most exciting things ahead is watching the venture my husband and I have been working on come to life. What makes it even more special is having my youngest sister, her husband, and my two-year-old nephew join us as our official onsite innkeepers. They’re thrilled for the opportunity to grow as a family in a new place they now get to call home, and we couldn’t be happier to share this chapter with them.
The other incredible journey we’re about to embark on is fatherhood! If all goes as planned, we should be welcoming our first baby in fall 2025. It’s been quite the road to get here, but we’re creating a blueprint for the life we’ve always dreamed of—and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead!
