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

Hi McKenna, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose to be in the aesthetic industry because it is forever changing and always kept me excited! When I was about to graduate high school, I was actually enrolled at Arizona State University to pursue a degree in journalism. Growing up, I spent countless hours watching Youtube videos of makeup and hair tutorials and would spend any allowance I received on the latest and greatest products. My love for all things beauty continued to grow as I got older which led me to enrolling in aesthetics school instead! I realized a traditional college path was not for me. Fast forward 11 years later and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else but what I am today. I am constantly inspired by the people around me and love to meet other professionals to compare techniques and best practices. There is a wonderful sense of community in the beauty world, we all learn from each other. Funny enough, I met all of my closest friends working in this industry too!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I went to aesthetics school straight out of high school which means I entered this big world of beauty at a very young and vulnerable age. I spent the majority of my career working for a large franchise before I ventured out on my own. During my time there, I was given the opportunity to travel, train, and meet so many other inspiring people who shared similar interests as me. There were times were I was working 50+ hours a week while being across the country and away from home. Although it was exhausting, that shaped who I was and defined my work ethic to be what it is today! Without those experiences, I think the long hours needed to become self-employed wouldn’t have come as easy. My favorite part of working for myself is that I get to deal with my clients one-on-one through their entire experience. It is so nice to have a more intimate connection with each person who books with me so I can understand their specific needs and customize their appointment. I truly value every client who trusts me to wax or lash them so I take the extra time to make sure they are leaving the studio beyond satisfied.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Breckenridge is one of my favorite places so I would definitely make that the top spot! I would rent a quaint Airbnb right outside of town so they could experience the mountain calm but also be close enough to enjoy all that Main Street has to offer. I also love Downtown Castle Rock for a more local and easily accessible day of fun. There is such a nice mix of new restaurants plus classic charm within a short drive from where I live! In both places, we could spend the whole day walking around and enjoying what makes Colorado so special.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband. Without his love and support, there is no way I would have taken the leap into becoming self-employed. I always felt there was a sense of security when you worked for someone else but he was the one who convinced me to take the risk even if it means the reward comes later. To this day, he will tell every new face he meets about what I do and hands out my business card. I am so blessed to have him. My parents have also made a huge impact in my story. I am so thankful that they didn’t pressure me to pursue anything else but my dream from a young age. They are constantly offering ideas on how to grow my business and always lend an ear when I need advice or feel stuck!

Website: https://thejoyofwax.com

Instagram: @the_joy_of_wax

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/106534047446254

Image Credits
Kaleigh Hicks (Boudoir Hicks Pics Photo)

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