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

Hi Carrie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My husband Michael and I had been thinking of buying a franchise and stumbled upon what was then Lunchbox Wax. We were leaving Barnes and Noble, we saw the name of the business and we were intrigued! We contacted the owner, they weren’t selling at that time and 4 months later got a call that the business was for sale. We were wanting to diversify and learn about other income streams, we are both in healthcare and thought this was a good option. We closed on the business in December 2019, then in March 2020 had to close for a period of time due to Covid. It was a very challenging time and a time for learning, which we took advantage of during the closure.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a registered nurse by trade, having dedicated 35 years to a career that I genuinely loved (most of the time!). Nursing not only shaped my professional life but also allowed me to build lifelong friendships. However, it eventually became clear that it was time to step outside of my comfort zone and launch!

When we purchased our first waxing business, I continued working full-time as a nurse—a decision I quickly learned was not ideal. While I initially trusted others to run the business, it became clear that I needed to step in and take control. It wasn’t an immediate adjustment, but over time, I learned to trust my instincts and make decisions that aligned with my vision for the business.

Opening our second location in Greenwood Village was a pivotal moment. It was a full buildout from the ground up, and I realized I couldn’t manage both my nursing career and the demands of opening a business. I made the decision to retire from nursing and commit fully to my role as a business owner.

Has it been easy? Absolutely not. It’s been challenging and has pushed me to step outside my comfort zone every single day. But the progress and growth have been incredibly rewarding. I lead with my heart, and I am very proud of the connections I’ve built with both teams. My manager recently said, “Two salons, one team,” and that has become my new motto.

What I love most about our brand is our unwavering commitment to inclusivity. We truly wax Every Body — regardless of appearance, identity, or background. Every person deserves to feel welcomed and valued, and we strive to make that our reality every single day. I am very proud to say we have won the Best of Mile High for Hair Removal two years in a row, that is what our teams strive for!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, lets see, I would definitely start with the Cherry Cricket for burgers and beers on their patio, it is amazing, I do love the original in Cherry Creek – but the Littleton location is winning me over! Then some shopping downtown Littleton, it’s an amazing little town, we would most likely end up at Cencalli Taqueria for amazing tacos and margaritas, the owners make you feel like you are part of the family! I would try and plan a getaway to a hot springs, maybe Glenwood Springs, spend some time there, plus the drive is gorgeous! Soak, get a massage and go to the caves next door, those are so good and relaxing. Definitely go to Boulder, meet my daughter and her husband along the Pearl Street Mall, shop, eat and do a little drinking! Then head up to Estes Park and go into Rocky Mountain Park for a bit, there is so much to do in our state!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This is hard! There have been so many people that have stepped in to help us, the real work started when we opened Salon #2, Greenwood Village. My partners in crime, Lisa Van Loben and Jen Barnett, both owners of Radiant Waxing Salons and they have my back constantly. Also, my husband Michael, he always supports me, is a great sounding board for me, he has been in the business world for many years and I could not do this without him. Lastly, Talia Bond, also a small business owner, she is always supportive, has unbelievable advice and also has a shoulder for me to cry on if needed!

Website: www.radiantwaxing.com/co-greenwood-village/ co-denver

Instagram: radiantwaxing_greenwoodvillage / radiantwaxing_denver

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.