Reflecting on Purpose and Passion in Beauty and Wellness

As we celebrate the fourth anniversary of Petals & Clay this week, I find myself reflecting on the journey that led here. Born during the lockdown and a temporary closure of Esty Skin Studio, Petals & Clay was a response to a critical need for self-care during unprecedented times. It pioneered the 'at-home facial kit,' bringing essential self-care right to people's doorsteps when they needed it most.

From a young age, I was acutely aware of my surroundings, feeling the mood of every room I entered. This sensitivity, while sometimes a challenge during my school years, later became a catalyst for my career. My first transformative experience with a spa day, a gift I received at 15, revealed the powerful impact of a nurturing environment. It inspired me to dive into the spa and salon world, starting as a front desk coordinator at just 16 and later becoming a trained esthetician.

By 2008, I had opened Esty Skin Studio in East Austin, fostering a community where wellness and beauty intersect in the most holistic manner. Fast forward to 2020, the launch of Petals & Clay during a global crisis underscored my commitment to holistic care, extending our reach outside the spa’s physical location.

In an industry often dominated by quick fixes and misleading narratives about aging, I felt compelled to advocate for truth and wellness. This led to the creation of Pretty Skin Bitch in 2024, a beauty blog dedicated to holistic beauty activism against harmful standards and norms.

I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve and connect with people, helping them feel relaxed, cared for, and seen. This gratitude extends to every aspect of my work, from giving facials to developing products that genuinely make a difference in people’s lives.

This journey isn’t just about offering services; it’s about empowering a community where beauty and health are synonymous. Thank you to everyone who has joined me on this path. Let’s continue to redefine beauty standards, promoting a healthier, more fulfilling life for all.

Your stories and support fuel this mission. Let's keep the conversation going—share your thoughts and experiences, and let's build a future where beauty is as much about how you feel as how you look.

Join us as we celebrate this milestone and continue to push the boundaries of beauty and wellness. Together, we can make a lasting impact.