Today we’d like to introduce you to Irini Sevdalis.
Hi Irini, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. Can you tell us your story and how you got to where you are today?
Thank you. I never imagined skincare would become my career. It started as a childhood passion that grew into so much more—something I did without thinking, it was so natural to me, rituals done with mothers + daughters. I always say, “It picked me before I picked it.”
Coming back to the U.S. after my mother’s passing was one of the biggest decisions I’ve made—it set the stage for everything that followed. That choice shaped the direction of my life and became a turning point that guided everything after. I saw possibility. I focused on manifesting dreams. I never thought about what could go wrong. I just followed the spark and trusted in my faith.
I was fortunate to serve as one of the Resident Estheticians at Bergdorf Goodman on 5th Avenue—a role I truly adored. Years later, I followed my heart and took my skills global, working in wellness spas aboard luxury cruise ships. It was the perfect blend of skincare and travel —and that decision was one of the best I’ve ever made.
During that time, I studied in England, earned International Certifications and gained hands-on experience treating skin across different cultures, climates, and skin types. It shaped how I see skin—not just as a surface, but as a reflection of the whole person.
I believe we all have our own spiritual journeys. A few years ago, I planned to go to Greece after the COVID lockdown but felt an intuitive pull to change course. I canceled my flights three days before and landed in Savannah, not knowing anyone. It felt surreal—but completely right. A client once said “when you are open, it finds you.”
From that moment, I knew I wanted to share my Celestial Facial with the women here. I remember thinking, Yes, I’m going to move here. I’ll do my facials here. I’ll share what I love here. I trusted that if it was meant for me, the doors would open. “God opens doors and closes doors”—If it was meant to be mine, it would be. Regardless of the outcome, I knew what’s meant to be will be. I’m often asked what got me to move to Savannah? The truth is—She picked me before I picked her. I always joke that Savannah stole me from Greece. But something about this place felt familiar before I even knew it.
Of course, life brings us obstacles—betrayals, loss. But these things aren’t meant to break us. For me, they bring clarity—a kind of rebirth. The deepest pain of all is losing the people we love. But I don’t walk alone. I know divine timing walks with me through every step. She’s still guiding me. Her spirit is behind everything I do. Her strength—and the quiet belief that Source and divine timing see all—is what carries me forward.
What makes my work special isn’t just technique—it’s intention. I create the treatments that offer a pause from the world, customized, energy-driven, and result-focused. It’s a sacred space to reconnect to yourself. I always say: when you touch someone’s skin with respect and care, you touch more than skin—
(And if I’m honest, the guys don’t love it—I might enjoy my work more than entertaining their egos. 😄)
Sometimes after a long day, I stand back, see the smile on a client’s face, and think, I am the luckiest Esthetician in the world + I have the best clients! I remember being 20, stepping off a plane with $200, ready to create a life I would enjoy . Back then, I saw possibility—not limits. I still do.
If I’ve learned anything, it’s this: trust the nudges. Follow your gut. Walk away when it’s time. And always bet on yourself—especially if you’re a woman with a gift. The world may not be ready—but do it anyway. Be mindful of your impact. Choose integrity. Do the right thing. How you treat people is your true legacy.
Today, I run a small, solo skin studio tucked away in Savannah’s historic district—low-key, and by appointment only.
I don’t retail products or commit to a single brand. Instead, I offer thoughtful, unbiased guidance based on what your skin truly needs. I’ve chosen this approach intentionally— If you’d like, I’ll sit with you, review what you’re using, and help refine your routine with high-quality options you can purchase on your own.
My skincare collection is carefully curated—a reflection of what I genuinely love and have used in my facials for years. From luxury brands like Sisley Paris to clean lines like May Lindstrom, Mr.Lulu,+ every product is selected with purpose. Some are pregnancy-safe, others imported from Italy, Spain, and beyond—each chosen with intention to deliver real results and a beautiful experience.From head-to-toe every product used is thought out.
Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Struggles are part of what makes us resilient and capable of achieving success. Nothing good comes without a challenge. For me, mindset, dedication, determination—and above all, faith—have carried me through every step.
That said, this business has not been smooth. Like many industries, the beauty-wellness world has its darker sides—where practitioners can be exploited, mistreated, or pressured to prioritize product sales over genuine care. People often have an idea of what a brand represents, but behind the scenes, it’s not always what they think. That’s always been the hardest part for me to witness. It goes against everything I believe in.
Because of this, I’ve always spoken up for my fellow estheticians and clients. This industry deserves respect and integrity. Those challenges have only sharpened my purpose and strengthened my commitment to doing things differently. Our clients are the best part. Opening my own practice was unexpected, but it has been an incredible opportunity. Being able to apply the knowledge and experience I’ve gained throughout my career in my own way is so valuable . It allows me to guide others positively and empower them with the confidence to stand up for themselves and for others.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. Tell us more about what you do, what you’re known for, what sets you apart, and what you’re most proud of.
At By Irini New York clients will discover a Boutique Style Skincare Studio tucked away in Savannah’s Historic’s District. It’s private, low-key, and unpretentious—designed for those seeking an elevated spa experience free from distractions and fully tailored to their individual skincare needs and overall well-being, all within a serene, discreet setting. Every detail—from lush robes and amenities to thoughtful snacks—is intentionally curated for comfort, privacy, and ease. I’ve created a space where my clients can feel completely comfortable and be themselves.
Clients appreciate the discretion—no one listening in, no one watching—just a truly personal, VIP experience. Seeing them enjoy the space makes me so happy.
With background in luxury customer service , continuous training. I bring years of hands-on expertise and thought to every aspect our time together —along with a touch of bubbly energy and the warmth that’s deeply rooted in my Greek heritage. I want every client to feel beautiful and welcomed. It’s a place you can simply be.
I offer holistic, clean beauty, luxury skincare services —ranging from acne-prone care to anti-aging treatments—designed to nourish the skin and restore balance. Every service blends advanced techniques with an intuitive touch and is fully customized to meet each client’s skin and energy needs. I don’t follow a one-size-fits-all menu—everything is guided by intention, season, and skin needs. Result-focussed, but also a calming, restorative experience from within.
My curated offerings include handcrafted organic holistic facials—featuring my signature Celestial Facial—as well as additional treatments. Expect really good high-end quality ingredients, each treatment is tailored to support skin health, clarity, and overall glow. Clients can see and feel the difference in their skin after a session.
I also provide pregnancy-safe facials, bridal facials, and options designed specifically for clients undergoing treatments that require extra care and safety. Through deep skin lifestyle consultations, I aim for the best results possible.
I specialize in firming , lymphatic and toning facial sculpting variations of massages that define cheekbones and enhance a natural, long-lasting radiance well beyond the treatment. These, combined with my brand signature holistic approach, crystal healing, and advanced modalities, help clients achieve both an immediate glow and lasting skin vitality. My focus is on creating personalized, transformative experiences that nourish the skin, body, and spirit.
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While there are many talented estheticians out there—and each client is aligned with whom they resonate—I’ve always led with care, warmth, presence, and deep listening. It’s about truly seeing the woman in front of me—and meeting her where she is.I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatments or only suggesting products. I focus on creating a personalized, thoughtful experience that honors both the skin and the whole person.
My approach blends advanced techniques with intuition and energy healing, creating a nurturing space where clients can truly relax and reconnect with themselves. I prioritize integrity and respect in every session, aiming to build trust and deliver real, lasting care.
I’ve created a space where your nervous system can soften and your skin can speak.
A woman might fake a lot—but never heart. My facials come from a true place, and clients feel that. Energy doesn’t lie.
By Irini New York, is proud to give back to the community by donating services to local charities, sharing my background in Beauty and Healing to uplift and support others. I was honored to receive First Place in the Compassion Category at The Skin Games, reflecting my commitment to care and connection in every treatment. This is in loving memory of my family who taught us to be Agape, and to those who helped me along the way and taught me that kindness is the most precious gift we can offer.
No one is 💯 “self-made” we have all had mentors, people who helped us along the way to get there. Thank you, to each and every single person.
What was the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Where did it come from, and how did it impact your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned on this journey is that true success comes from staying authentic, loving what you do and trusting your own path — even when it’s uncertain or looks different from what others expect. Be yourself-Be comfortable in your own skin. Your tribe.. will find you.
In my 20s, at a restaurant in Bayville, New York, a successful businessman looked at me and said, “Make your hobby your career.” His words stayed with me. I listened—and it was the best advice I’ve ever received. I’ve never felt like I’ve worked a day in my life. His words played a quiet but pivotal role in shaping my path. This is the magic I came to manifest.
I’ve discovered that resilience isn’t about avoiding struggles but embracing them as opportunities to grow stronger and gain clarity in my purpose. Faith and patience have been my anchors, reminding me that everything unfolds in divine timing.
In my field, I’ve witnessed that genuine care and integrity resonate far deeper than any quick fix or product push. When you serve with intention and truly care , the results go beyond skin deep—they transform the whole person.
Above all, I believe kindness is the most valuable gift we can offer — to ourselves, our clients, and the world.
As Sophocles beautifully wrote,
“Kindness gives birth to kindness.”
Pricing:
- Celestial Facial
- The Facial Edit
- The Samsara Facial
- Distance Reiki Healing
- Crystal Healing Facial
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.byirininewyork.com/landing-page
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/facebyirini
- Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/place/By+Irini+New+York/
- Other: https://visitsavannah.com/profile/by-irini-new-york/22849
