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

Hi Anna, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my own business was complex and yet simple. I was terrified of opening my own business, but I knew that I had the talent and knowledge of my craft to do so. I strive to be an expert in everything that I do. I want to know everything I possibly can to provide the best experience and care to my clients. I take my job very seriously, and I absolutely love what I do. I can not imagine doing anything else. And, the fact that I get to create and have fun with my very own business blows my mind, and makes me smile every day. Its really a dream come true to be able to serve my community and provide a healing sacred space. Opening my business was similar to a huge weight off my shoulders. I cant do what I know is necessary and essential if I am employed by another person. I can be creative in my own space and cater to each client in unique ways. I could not be happier.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is in the same category as other independently owned spa’s. I’m an Aesthetician, I focus on both Botanical and Medical Aesthetics. In my practice I strive to do much more than simply providing a run of the mill facial. I want each of my clients to leave feeling like they have truly experienced healing within mind, body and spirit. My intention is to provide the best care they have received. And I enjoy exploring many different tools to provide these therapeutic services. I love working with plants, and using them in multiple facets. I am most proud of the knowledge that I have gained over the past number of years, and the fact that I am always learning new things. I see life as a marathon and I hope to hold on to the enthusiasm and excitement that I thrive in today. I know there will always be challenges and dark days. Despite this I want to be a bright light for myself, my family and my community. I want people to know that my story is not one that has been without tremendous challenges. I have overcome many obstacles in life to get where I am today. I hope people can read this and understand that life will never be easy. However, if you are strong enough to always believe in yourself and never doubt your capabilities. You will find true happiness and peace. Never give up!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So this might sound cliché, but I cant help myself. There is truly something magical about the mountains. I grew up in Colorado. I have lived here my entire life. There is nothing like the mountains in the fall and winter. Don’t get me wrong, I love the warmer seasons as well. But, if you have ever been in a valley far up in the mountains during a snowstorm or after a snowstorm you know what I’m talking about. There is nothing like the snow. The crisp winter air and the pressure of the cold, literal goosebumps. The sounds that come along with snowfall, and then finally the absolute silence once the snow has stopped falling. It resonates so deeply with me and my creative spirit. With this in mind, I would plan an entire week in the mountains in the middle of winter. I would visit Dillon, Frisco, Breckenridge, Granby, Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain and Trinidad. The stops would include the worlds best hot chocolate, and baked goods. Especially cakes, cookies and anything with chocolate. Any place with french fries is a definite must as well. One of the most exciting things would be walking on a frozen lake surrounded by mountains, truly breathtaking.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many people in my life that push me to be kind, genuine, bold and creative, all while supporting my dreams. I would like to recognize my parents Rus and Laura Hackstaff. They have always believed in my abilities and skill, they have never doubted me. I would also like to recognize my brothers Callan and Jesse Hackstaff, for challenging me and making me as strong as I am. My entire extended family is very large and full of amazing individuals who never quit, they are part of the reason I have the spirit and drive that I have. I would also like to recognize Belinda Swanson and Emily Davis, both of these amazing women are Aestheticians as well. They have been incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, I will forever look up to them and be thankful to them. I must also recognize my business associates at the Liv and Lo Beauty and Wellness Collective. Amanda, Hunter and Raven ya’ll make every day incredible, and I would not be where I am in life or my career without each of you. Finally, the man who has always helped me achieve my dreams, my Husband Igor Kononenko. Your the best, truly my soul met its match in life when I met this man.

Website: www.rawbeauty5280.com

Instagram: @that_koko_boo and @that_raw_beauty

Other: raw.beauty5280@yahoo.com

Image Credits
Image Credit to Green Envee Luxury Botanical Skincare

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