Meet Jamie Tatreau | Owner of Sweet Mana Botanicals / Massage Therapist / Esthetician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamie Tatreau and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamie, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
With age, I definitely find myself living a much more balanced lifestyle. During my 20’s and 30’s I had a difficult time scheduling time for myself. If I took a day off and actually planned something fun to do, it was like clockwork, the phone would be ringing off the hook. Clients would be wanting something that same day… and most of the time I gave in and ditched my plans. It wasn’t like I didn’t want to have fun or just relax, but I knew I wouldn’t enjoy it because I would be riddled with guilt for turning down the work. Now in my forty’s, I appreciate and respect my time so much more. I no longer feel guilt or shame for taking time for myself. I know it is an absolute necessity and a key to my success and overall happiness now. I no longer feel the need to prove to anyone that I am a hard worker, I know I am. The driving forces of obtaining more money and yearning to feel successful have been replaced with wanting to experience more joy and fulfillment.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What does your business do? We handcraft luxury botanical skincare using sustainably harvested plant powered ingredients, rich in antioxidants and healing nutrients found in nature to elevate well-being. What are you most proud of? From year one, we have been passionate about giving back to charitable organizations that share our vision for preservation & creating positive change for communities, animals & the environment. I am proud to have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. Developing a protocol for the “Sweet Mana” spa treatment, which utilizes our spa products and is performed at several spas, including Four Seasons Resort Spas was a proud moment too. How did you get to where you are today? It was a long evolution really. I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Community Health Education, which set the foundation for educating and promoting healthy living and holistic therapies . From there, I dove into 22+ years of experience in the ever evolving spa industry as a practicing massage therapist and esthetician. Skincare quickly became another way for me to help people, so I started making my own products to combat the harsh elements of the Colorado weather. Within the year, Sweet Mana was born… and we have been going strong since 2010.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
With so many delicious restaurants on the city scene it’s hard to choose, but a feast at Rioja, Safta and Root Down would be a must. We would definitely spend a day walking around Cherry Creek to shop and get our nails done at a day spa. A sunny afternoon would be spent drinking beer on the rooftop of Tap Fourteen, followed by a Rockies game at Coors Field. I would drive her around the city to see all the charming neighborhood boroughs. One night would be spent having drinks and apps on Larimer and walking to the Buell theater for a show. And it wouldn’t be a trip to Colorado without seeing a concert at Red Rocks!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Honestly, there are many family members, friends and clients that have supported and encouraged me along the way… but I would like to give both of my parents a special shout out. My mom has always supported me & been by my side through all the stages of my business venture. She has helped me countless times working markets, shipping orders, packaging product, giving feedback etc. I’m not sure what I would have done without her help along the way. I would also like to thank my dad for his guidance, integrity & unwavering work ethic that he also instilled in me from an early age. I know my drive, perseverance & determination was learned from watching him.

Website: www.sweetmana.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sweetmanabotanicals

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sweetmanajamie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sweetmanabotanicals

Image Credits
Dave Gillette Photograohy Melissa Davidson (Studio Three Sixty 5)