Today we’d like to introduce you to Colbi Rease Marks.
Hi Colbi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hello, Sunshine Salon was always in the back of my mind as something I wanted to do, but like most people it was a risk I wasn’t ready to take, especially having two kids to consider. In August of 2018, the timing was right. I could either go work for another waxing salon/spa or start my own.
Within a month, I had a location secured, all the legal side of things handled, supplies purchased, and a lot of hope. The first year was a roller coaster of emotions. A lot of highs and lows that made me question what I was really doing. After the first year, I had somewhat of a handle on things and was also ready to grow my business even more. In March of 2020, I signed a lease for a much larger space, which is my current location.
About a week later COVID-19 was here and panic set it as to what I should do next. Luckily I was financially prepared to handle closing for a couple of months. I also had some amazing clients that prepaid for services, ordered retail, and patiently waited for me to open back up. August 2021, I celebrated three years of being a solo esthetician and owner of Hello Sunshine Salon and Spa.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not! I still can’t believe how far I have come with this business. My first space was a glorified closet, didn’t even have a door! It was basically a storage area in a massage place that had a curtain and zero room to move in, but somehow I made it work. I just worked and built my clientele up until I could afford to truly need a larger space.
I’m now in a full suite with three rooms, a waiting area, and even a glorified closet space that is actually used for storage. Even now when I walk into work I just smile and reflect on how far I’ve come in three years.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Hello, Sunshine Salon offers full body waxing and facial services to men and women, as well as fun retail products from numerous small businesses. I do a lot of waxing, mainly Brazilians, living in Savannah you never know when a beach or pool day may pop up! I feel like the experience you have when you come in sets me apart from others.
There is no distraction or pressure from front desk people trying to sell you products, no drama or competition with other estheticians. You come in and it’s a one on one service from start to finish and sometimes a mini “therapy session”. I truly adore all my clients and the relationship that we have formed over time.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I’m socially very shy. One-on-one you can’t get me to shut up, but put me in a group and it will be a silent night.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: HelloSunshine.GlossGenius.com
- Instagram: @hellosunshinesalon
- Facebook: Facebook.com/Hellosunshinesalon
