Over the course 2025 we had 14 Confidence Circles with incredible presenters and numerous attendees. All with one undeniable result: Community. In our busy professional lives as aesthetic practitioners, it is easy to become isolated from our peers. Keeping our appointment books full leaves less time for colleagues and collaboration. When we can find balance, it makes us all better at our jobs! Our goal with the Confidence Circles was to set aside time specifically to bring us together to find motivation and an uplifting network in our everchanging field. The presenters we welcomed from near and far covered everything from injectables to local small businesses, patient focus to new-to-us aesthetic treatments. And you showed up! There were so many faces that we saw at every month -- and many of you that we had just met! Our first circle of 2025 featured our very own Olivia Kirkpatrick, MSN, sharing her journey and doing what she does best: Empowering us all to be our most authentic selves. When you know yourself, know your journey, and trust your own intuition, the world opens up for you. We were able to carry this lesson with us through the entire year -- and will help ignite our choices in the new year. All our Confidence Circles fell into two main categories: treatment insight and business acumen. These two elements have to work together perfectly to create a thriving aesthetics business. The treatments we highlighted last year covered so much -- we could write a whole article about each one! But here are some reminders of what we learned. Our own Lisa Rivero, NP, addressed facial symmetry, reminding us that you can't just do the same thing on both sides of a face, you have to address the muscles on each side individually. Kate Reed, NP , shared her experience working with patients on their medical weight loss journey. Justin Jacobson, PA-C, shared his inspiring journey on perseverance through burnout and the transformative benefits of hormone replacement therapy for your patients. Ophthalmologist Dr. Amjad Ahmad gave us hands-on experience looking at blephs and the impact reconstructive eyelid surgeries can have for our patients. Kelly Geisinger helped keep us up to date on the latest trends and technology in laser treatments and skin rejuvenation with MOXI and BBL. Dr Tracee Blackburn brought her dermatological expertise to discuss the intersection of confidence and hair loss. Our own Lamija Hubjer, PA , talked about her favorite topic: regenerative treatments and the body's natural healing potential. And Rana brought the excitement to filler and tox techniques to elevate the neck and jawline. On the business side of things, we were equally blessed. Laura Benarosch shared here wealth of knowledge. She reminded us that excellence is the new standard in customer service as our patients are our best marketing tool -- you want them raving about your spa! We also highlighted other local businesses that we love. Our friends from Jectology told us about their incredible concierge IV therapy business. Little Luxuries talked us through how to throw the best party with every detail addressed. Whew, what a list! The connections we've made and the friendships we've built this year cannot be quantified; they are one of the reasons we love what we do here. During our final gathering of 2025, we asked you all what you'd like to see more of in the new year. You asked for more about laser and light therapy, and more about running a business. It's like you read our minds! You can check out our upcoming Confidence Circles for 2026 here - RSVP today

New Year, New You, New...Job? Is "Revitalizing Your Career" one of your new year's resolutions? Here's our handy guide to creating a successful resume that will get your name to the top of the interview list. Our Skin & Concierge Manager, Gina Gonzalez, has seen a lot of resumes - the good, the bad, and the marvelous. Here are some of her recommendations to make yours shine, and common pitfalls to avoid. One of the most common questions we hear is "how do I get into the industry, I don't have the experience". When you are making the move into aesthetics, the key is reframing your existing clinical experience as transferable skills rather than focusing on "aesthetic industry experience". Consider what you already do best; IV placement, blood draws, injections, patient assessment/triage, charting, medication distribution, etc. This strong foundation, coupled with aesthetic training, bridges the gap to get you into the industry. Top 5 tips to make your resume shine Avoid generic "one size fits all" format Your resume should reflect the job you are applying for, which means your resume should change for each application you submit. Align your resume with the keywords from the job description. Cut the buzzwords and fluff Words such as "hard-worker", "detail oriented", "proven ability", and "team player" are overused. These words are empty and offer no proof of your skills. Highlight your traits through your achievements. On a ER nurse's resume, this could mean swapping out "hard-worker" for "Managed an average of 5-7 high-acuity patients per shift while maintaining timely assessments and coordination with the trauma team" Refine overloaded or weak job descriptions Strike the balance between lengthy paragraph descriptions of your previous jobs and overly vague sentences. The average time a recruiter spends doing a review is 6-8 seconds. Your job descriptions should be short, action-oriented ( not task oriented), and results-focused in a bullet point format (3-5 bullet points) Rack Up Your Numbers Quantify results wherever possible. Percentages, numbers, time saved, patient satisfaction, revenue improvement, etc. Consider how much more impactful it is to say "Assisted in 200+ orthopedic surgical procedures annually", instead of "assisted in orthopedic surgery". Improve Formatting Does your resume flow well and is it easy to read? If a recruiter cannot read it within those first 6-8 seconds, they may toss it aside. Grab a friend to proofread and analyze your resume. Each segment should have a clear header, consistent formatting, professional font and sizing. Take the time to actually print your resume to get a true visual perspective. Let your creativity shine! This industry balances medicine with artistry. Add a subtle touch of color, with a clean design to help your resume stand out.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Andrea Hruzek-Graber Introducing Andrea, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Andrea participated in Cohort One of our Preceptorship Program from May to October, 2025. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? Before I discovered my passion for aesthetics, I had the incredible honor of welcoming new lift into the world as a labor and delivery nurse for 17 years. Nothing has ever brought me more joy than supporting mothers through one of the most transformative moments of their lives —helping them feel empowered, confident, and safe as they trusted their bodies to do what they were beautifully designed to do. It was a privilege to witness that strength every day. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? My own natural aging process is what first piqued my interest. I was seeking guidance on how to age gracefully while also restoring my self-confidence. Along the way, and through meaningful conversations with other women, I discovered that helping others —women and even some men—feel confident and secure allows their true radiance to shine. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's Preceptorship Program? I had been following Rana on Instagram and Patreon for almost a year. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in aesthetics, but I was afraid and unsure of where to even begin. What I did know was that I wanted solid training —something I could proudly list on my resume and truly feel confident about. Rana was the answer! I had already started The Confidence Bar's online Novice Neuromodulator course when the Preceptorship Program was announced. I immediately knew it was a must for me. I was eager to build a strong foundation in aesthetics, and this course delivered exactly that. My only regret is not living closer so I could have participated in the in-person program! What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? I think what I love most is seeing the look on a patient's face when they truly love what they see in the mirror. It's about more than just appearance —it's about healing, restoring confidence, celebrating life, and bringing out the natural beauty that's already there. What are you doing now? I am no longer working in Labor and Delivery, having transitioned into a new chapter of my nursing career. I became a nurse practitioner in 2022 and have spent the past three years seeking a role that aligns with both my professional goals and my passion for aesthetics. I'm grateful to have found that opportunity. I currently work in functional medicine, specializing in women's health. The physician I collaborate with also leads an aesthetic division within our practice and has graciously supported my growth by offering me the opportunity to begin injecting upon completion of my training. What pearl did you learn in the Preceptorship Program that has shaped your practice? Truly, this is a hard question to answer because there was just so much to learn and take away from the course. If I had to narrow it down to one key takeaway, it would be this: be authentic and be true to myself. In an industry where it can be easy to compare or feel pressure to meet certain expectations, this reminder grounded me. Patients connect more when you show up as your genuine self, and that authenticity builds trust, confidence, and lasting relationships. It's not just about technique, it's about who you are when you walk into the room.

Welcome to " Where Are They Now?" , a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Allyson Fritts Introducing Allyson Fritts the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Allyson took a one-on-one training with Lamija covering tox and filler. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I have 8+ years experience as a physician assistant in various fields of medicine. I was a PA in plastic surgery prior to entering into aesthetics. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I have always entertained the idea of aesthetics, but after taking my first training, it made me realize my passion towards the field. It is a perfect balance of medicine and creativity, all while getting to see your patients glow with confidence. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I actually won the online modules from The Confidence Bar on instagram, so the universe steered me right to The Confidence Lab. When I chose my first in-person training, I knew where to go. It is an excellent foundational training program for someone entering into aesthetic medicine. I returned for this second training because it was such a great experience. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? Seeing my patients happy, the collaboration between providers to give patients the best outcomes, and the ever evolving knowledge that you need to succeed in the field. I love a challenge! What are you doing now? I'm working as a PA injector at the Fitz Aesthetic Club in Old Town, Chicago. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? Believe in yourself first and then you will find a mentor who believes in your ability as well. If you want to be successful though, get ready to put in the time and effort to learn!

November has been a whirlwind of conferences for our team. We attended Med Spa Pro Conference in Boca Raton, and Needle Arts Conference in Philadelphia. As always, our team is the first to sit in the front row every morning, and also the first to get the dancing started after hours. We are so proud of how they represent The Confidence Bar and the lessons we all bring back to share. Here are some of the highlights of what we've learned over the last few weeks. From the Business Track: Here is the "cheat sheet" for a happy workplace: Your Team/ culture Work/Life Balance Salary and Benefits You need at least 2 of these. From Rana's Presentation: Treat your returning patients with all the care and effort you give your new patients. It may be tempting to tell them to "make themselves at home" and "help themselves", but when we put in that extra effort to pamper them, it makes all the difference. From the Laser Sessions: The target of many lasers, like our MOXI, is water. For patients to see the best results, they need to be hydrated! If they are already using medical-grade skincare, their skin will be receptive to the treatment. However, to ensure the best results they should book a hydrafacial in the week prior to their laser treatment. This will ensure their tissues are hydrated and give the laser plenty to target. From the Professional Sessions: Imposter syndrome is a thief of joy and a thief of personal progress. The only way to break out of it is confidence. Confidence is a muscle that gets stronger every time you use it. By flexing your confidence, even in moments where you're nervous, you'll get stronger at the habit and it will get easier. From the Neuromodulator Sessions: We took so many notes. Starting with a fun fact: bruising can cause a wider diffusion of neuromodulator. On the opposite hand, if you have your patient contract the muscle you're injecting, you can lessen the spread of the neuromodulator. We appreciated the reminder that you get the most effective tox treatment when you inject at the neuromuscular origin. When treating the procerus, for example, instead of simply injecting between the brows, identify the midpoint between the medial canthus. From the Patient Experience Sessions: Across multiple sessions, the repeated message we heard is to truly see and know our patients as individuals. One session recommended using The Mackay 66, which uses 66 questions to truly get to know your patients. Armed with that intimate knowledge, you can select gifts that are more than just flowers and chocolates. Patients are self-involved - they care about what you offer because of how it benefits them . From the Marketing Sessions: Knowing the psychology behind what motivates our patients' choices is so important. Our brains are wired to be visual and our presentation - both online and in person - needs to make it easy for them to say "yes" to our practice. One presenter said that "a confused mind says no", so our job is to ensure that our patients are not confused. Whew! That's a lot! And there was oh so much more that we brought home from all of these conference sessions. The joy we take from learning is hard to understate. We love the validation for things we are doing well, and even more so love the new ideas we gain. The world of aesthetic medicine is always expanding and changing, and we are so ready to continue learning.

Contrary to what you may think, we are all educators. We might not all be educating other injectors, but each and every one of us are educating our patients on a daily basis. They know we have expertise and they come to us because we are the specialists. From "does this wrinkle look right?" to "my skin has changed so much post-baby"; they bring us their concerns and we bring our skill, knowledge, and talents to help them. One tool that we've implemented to both support patients in taking care of their skin, and as a speedbump for practitioner consistency, is aftercare instructions. Post Treatment care instructions are shared in email communications, verbally before they leave the appointment, and as handy printed sheets that we give to our patients. Offering the information in multiple formats ensures that they really hear us and can find the information when they need it. On average, most people need to hear or read something 7 times before they can fully remember and integrate it. If you have kids, you know that sometimes that number is much higher! Applying this to our patients makes us stronger practitioners. They are invited to actively participate in the success of the treatments into which they have invested their time and money. I can't believe that they ignore us on purpose . They're just busy, distracted, and not professionals like we are. When we take that extra effort to really explain it and arm them with information they need to succeed, it strengthens our personal connections and improves their outcomes.

The Confidences Lab is located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago. A frequently asked question by our attendees is where to stay and eat. To help we have created a guide to assist you. A West Loop Guide Welcome to The West Loop , one of Chicago’s fastest growing neighborhoods, defined by boutique shopping, public art, and adventurous dining. Just blocks away from Chicago’s Greektown and the United Center (home of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks) and trendy Fulton Market district. The West Loop offers sights, sounds, and tastes that will satisfy every traveler's desire. Location & Transportation From O'Hare to the West Loop: Take the CTA Blue Line towards Forest Park to the Racine stop. Then walk approximately 10-15 minutes to your west loop hotel or The Confidence Bar. From Midway: The easiest option is to use rideshare or a taxi directly from Midway Airport. Driving & Parking: Recommend downloading the ParkChicago and SpotHero apps to easily manage street and nearby garage parking. Where to Stay In order of closest & most convenient first: Hyatt House Chicago, West Loop-Fulton Market : Just 1 block from The Confidence Lab! Offers amenities such as a fitness center, a rooftop pool, complimentary breakfast, and a 24-hour market. The Publishing House Bed & Breakfast : In the former Free Methodist Publishing House built in 1909. Offers 11 private en suite rooms with personalized service and customizable breakfast options. The Emily Hotel : Design-forward modernist hotel with curated art collection. Offers 24-hour fitness center, the Rooftop Cinema Club. The Hoxton : In the heart of Fulton Market District, but a short walk from The Confidence Lab. Mid-century furnishings with modern amenities and floor-to-ceiling windows to get your best view of Chicago. Crowne Plaza West Loop : A short walk to Greektown brings you to this great IHG hotel. Offers on site parking and breakfast options. Restaurants The West Loop has attracted many of Chicago’s greatest culinary talents, rightfully earning the moniker "Restaurant Row". The neighborhood now houses more critically acclaimed restaurants and bars than any other part of the city, so here are our favorite recommendations. Au Cheval - An excellent burger in a casual, delicious spot. Chilaquiles, chicken wings, foie gras, and more. Avec - A staple in the neighborhood. The chorizo-stuffed bacon-wrapped dates are incredible! Beatrix - Quick, grab & go market featuring a large, rotating menu. Black Barrel Tavern - Laid-back sports bar with great food and scrumptious drinks list. Tell George that Rana sent you! Carpenter Street Cafe - Cozy spot for happy hour or casual dining just around the corner. El Che - Modern Argentine steakhouse with a live-fire grill. Green Street Smoked Meats - Smokey, Texas BBQ. Their pork belly is as good as any dessert. Groundswell Coffee - A daily stop for many of us! A Chicago micro-roaster that meets all your caffeine needs - and is delicious to boot! J.P. Graziano - Italian market and legendary sandwich shop. Monteverde - Some of the best Italian food in the city. Every dish is incredible, especially the cacio e pepe. Momotaro - Elevated dining experience for lovers of Japanese cuisine. Feels like being in the streets of Old Tokyo. Nobu - The sushi of your dreams. From prix fixe lunches to luscious dinners, they have what you're craving. Publican Quality Meats - A butcher shop, cafe, bakery, and mini market. Perfect for a filling, delicious luncheon. Sushi Dokku - Around the corner and delicious. Gourmet sushi right when you want it. Trivoli Tavern - Upscale bar food such as fish & chips, handmade pastas, steaks, and more. Perfect for a date or dinner with friends. Events The United Center is a world-class arena located in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago (The Confidence Lab is less than 5 minutes away). It is considered one of the best venues for sports and concerts because of its state-of-the-art facilities and world-class amenities. As the home of the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks, the arena has hosted some of the most memorable moments in sports history. It is also a premier destination for concerts and other live events, with a seating capacity of over 20,000 and advanced sound and lighting systems that ensure an unforgettable experience for fans. Looking for something else? Check out these guides for up-to-the-minute Chicago events. Choose Chicago Your Chicago Guide Beyond the West Loop If you’re traveling with your spouse, children, friends or all of the above, here are a few excellent ways to spend your time between trainings and meals: Museum of Contemporary Art: The MCA is Chicago’s contemporary and modern art museum. It features a rotating cast of their collected works –– ranging from the likes of famous designer Virgil Abloh to local artists like Jeanne Dunning. It’s featured exhibitions, often by ticket purchase only, touch on themes like ambiguity, The Internet, politics and poetry. The Art Institute of Chicago : This world-renowned museum is home to a number of iconic exhibitions such as a display of works by Mark Rothko as well as archives of ancient art from across the world. It’s simply a must-see when in Chicago. Tickets can be bought online or in-person. Museums at The Museum Campus : Museum Campus is home to the Adler Planetarium, The Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum of Natural History – all featuring their own sites and wonders in a single 57-acre museum park right by Lake Michigan.

Our first cohort of The Confidence Lab Preceptorship Program is finishing up this week! These brilliant and talented preceptees have dedicated countless hours to improving their skills in aesthetic medicine. Over the past 6 months, they have: Studied 40+ hours of training video Attended 9 hours of zoom meetings Joined us from 13 states - and 3 time zones Participated in 86 shadow assist days Observed 126 filler treatments Observed 421 neuromodulator treatments Treated 24 models during hands-on training days Over the course of the program, the 12 preceptees in track 1 came in once a month and truly became part of The Confidence Team. The track 2 preceptees made waves with their persistence and curiosity. While everyone did an incredible job learning and growing in their profession, we have to call out a few success stories. Three preceptees started new jobs in aesthetics! One of them shared that she got the position because she told the spa that she was in this preceptorship program. They knew the quality education she would have at the end of the program and hired her right away. Another preceptee began the program pregnant and joined our graduation party with her beautiful five month old baby. She shared that coming to her shadow assist days every month helped her become human again. Two additional preceptees started the program as concierge staff at The Confidence Bar and have now transitioned into new roles providing skin treatments. Claire, RN , and Grace, NP , bring advanced medical expertise and a true passion for skin health to every treatment. Their thoughtful, patient-centered approach makes them trusted experts for achieving radiant, healthy skin. Congratulations, Cohort 1! Your grace, curiosity, talents, kindness, and lovely energy will be missed. Highlights from our Hands-On Training Days Photos from our Graduation Party  A night of laughter, gratitude, and glow, because every milestone deserves a little sparkle .

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?" , a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses. We explore how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has positively impacted the lives of our attendees. Megan Gullickson Introducing Megan, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Megan participated in our Cadaver Course in the morning and then did a half-day training with Lamija, focusing on full-facial rejuvenation. What Were You Doing Before You Got Into Aesthetics? My healthcare career started very early. I worked as a receptionist in an outpatient oncology clinic at the age of 16. By the time I was 21, I had progressed into my nursing profession. Over the last 17 years, my experience has evolved through multiple acute and ambulatory nursing care areas. I have always been eager for more and love to learn. This passion eventually led me to a Clinical Informatics Nurse role. Shortly after that, I began my career in aesthetics. What Inspired You to Pursue a Career in Aesthetics? As a teen, I struggled with severe cystic acne. I remember my mom taking me to the dermatologist multiple times for skin care treatments and regimens. However, I never believed these would help me regain my confidence. This experience has always resonated with me. Instilling beauty back into your patient can be one of the most rewarding experiences. After receiving aesthetic treatments myself, I felt the pull to expand my skillset. My passion for beauty, health, and wellness aligned perfectly with the field of aesthetic medicine, and I have not looked back. Why Did You Choose The Confidence Lab's Training Program? I gravitated toward The Confidence Lab because they offered something different from typical aesthetic training. The small, intimate hands-on setting, combined with providers who have exceptional anatomy knowledge and a true commitment to safety, drew me in. Additionally, I have subscribed to Rana's Patreon for the last year. I found the content very educational, but I also love the fun, transparent, and approachable presence of The Confidence Team. What Is Your Favorite Aspect of Working in the Field of Aesthetics? My favorite aspects of working in aesthetics are twofold: building confidence and developing relationships. Watching someone's confidence transform truly improves a patient's quality of life on countless levels. That is extremely rewarding for me. I also love the honest, genuine relationships I create with patients, as well as those that have developed among my peers. Many of these relationships have blossomed into amazing friendships and support systems. What Are You Doing Now? I am currently working at Wells Wellness and Aesthetics as a Nurse Injector in Helena, Montana. Additionally, I hold a Clinical Informatics Nurse position at our local community hospital. Over the last several years, I have perfected my craft to offer natural facial balancing, laser treatments, skin health, and wellness services. What Advice Would You Give to Those Considering a Career in This Field? Stay humble, stay honest, and be eager to learn. Lastly, find the people who align with your philosophy. They will be the ones in your corner, watching you grow and supporting your passion. The Journey of Continuous Learning In the ever-evolving field of aesthetics, continuous learning is essential. Each course I attended has equipped me with new skills and insights. I encourage everyone to embrace this journey. Building a Supportive Community One of the most significant aspects of my career has been the community I’ve built. Surrounding myself with like-minded professionals has been invaluable. We share knowledge, experiences, and support one another. The Impact of Aesthetic Treatments The impact of aesthetic treatments goes beyond physical appearance. They can significantly enhance a person's self-esteem and overall well-being. I have witnessed transformations that have changed lives. Final Thoughts As I reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had. The Confidence Lab has played a crucial role in shaping my career. I look forward to continuing my journey in aesthetics and helping others along the way. --- I hope this inspires you to pursue your passion in aesthetics. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?" , a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Laura Gary, MSN RN Introducing Laura Gary, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series. Laura participated in multiple trainings covering tox, filler, and Sculptra. What Were You Doing Before You Got Into Aesthetics? Before aesthetics, I spent my career in pediatric critical care, education, and nursing leadership. I worked as a bedside PICU nurse, a nurse educator, and a nurse leader. While I learned so much in these roles, I found that the further I climbed in leadership, the more I missed direct patient interaction. I longed for the joy of helping people one-on-one. What Inspired You to Pursue a Career in Aesthetics? I started networking with nursing friends to explore life beyond hospital walls. I shadowed colleagues who ran med spas and connected with nurses in tech and other entrepreneurial roles. I discovered how aesthetics blended my love for healthcare, technical skill, and business. At first, I doubted if I "fit" into the industry. I wear tennis shoes and leggings most days! But The Confidence Lab made me realize there's space for everyone in aesthetics. Confidence is truly the key. Why Did You Choose The Confidence Lab's Training Program? When I decided to enter the aesthetics field, I wanted a training program that taught exceptional technique and fostered a supportive learning environment. The Confidence Lab's training program came highly recommended. It was everything I hoped for—and more! I loved the perfect mix of didactic learning and hands-on aesthetic training. The Confidence Lab's team was warm, welcoming, and approachable. No question was ever "too silly" for a new injector to ask. They opened their doors, shared their knowledge, and even after my training, they've continued to support me. Over time, I've trained there for tox, filler, and Sculptra. Every experience has been invaluable. What Is Your Favorite Aspect of Working in the Field of Aesthetics? My favorite part of aesthetics is the balance of technical skill, artistry, and patient connection. I love educating clients, addressing their concerns, and seeing their joy when they look in the mirror after a treatment. There's nothing quite like that "wow" moment. What Are You Doing Now? In 2024, I launched Simply You, Nurse Aesthetics as a mobile clinic. In February 2025, I opened my storefront in my hometown of Prior Lake, MN. I currently see patients in the evenings and on weekends while still working full-time at the hospital. However, in November 2025, I will officially transition to running Simply You full-time! Over the last year, I've expanded from offering tox alone to a wide range of injectables and skin treatments. I'm also pursuing my FNP, set to graduate in November 2026. What Advice Would You Give to Those Considering a Career in This Field? If you're considering a career in aesthetics, shadow other injectors and ask plenty of questions. I would be happy to be that person for you if you are looking for a connection! I believe collaboration in this industry is key. Also, if you're starting your own business, set up your business systems—EMR, policies, contracts, and more—before training. I spent five months preparing before launching in June 2024. This preparation allowed me to start practicing right away without losing momentum. The Journey Ahead Aesthetics has been the most rewarding career shift I've ever made. I'm grateful every day for the training, mentorship, and confidence The Confidence Lab helped me build. Embracing Change Change can be daunting, but it often leads to incredible opportunities. I encourage you to embrace the journey ahead. Whether you're just starting or are already on your path, remember that every step counts. Building a Community As we grow in this field, let’s remember the importance of community. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes can foster a supportive environment. Together, we can elevate the standards of aesthetics and ensure patient safety. Conclusion In conclusion, my journey in aesthetics has been transformative. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow in this field. I hope my story inspires you to take that leap of faith and pursue your passion. Remember, confidence is key, and there’s a place for everyone in this vibrant industry. ---wix---

The best part of attending conferences is bringing back the excitement, inspiration, and pearls of knowledge to share with our whole team. This year we've committed to all attending conferences to help us as individuals and as a team. It has been an extra honor that many of us have been invited to present at some of these conferences - it definitely adds to the excitement! In September, five of our practitioners attended and presented at the Canadian Aesthetic Expo in Toronto. We spoke about being The Hype Squad in Aesthetics and how our individual talents and personalities make us suited to building each other up. It was a whirlwind weekend with exciting talks, inspiring pearls, and meeting wonderful peers. Our team, Rana, Lamija, Lauren, Angie, and Olivia presented in the business track by talking about what it really takes to make it in aesthetics. We are a colorful bunch with a wide array of personalities that are nearly opposites in many ways, but it all just works. That is because we respect each other, we genuinely like each other, enjoy our work, and we continually push ourselves out of our comfort zones in pursuit of growth. Lamija spoke about getting out of your own way. Not shrinking, but instead leaning into your self-worth. Lauren shared how she had a rocky start in aesthetics. She recalled how on her first day in a medspa she was asked how she planned to be the "star injector", with the focus only on money goals. Olivia shared the importance of setting time aside for yourself and growing organically with daily mantras. Angie spoke about how community and kindness guide her path. And then it was my turn. Honestly, I stood there with my mouth wide open because I was just in awe of each and every one of my teammates. How real, honest, and relatable they were. They added so much value to the audience, and every one of them was applauded after their talk. I was tongue-tied and can hardly remember what I said. I was simply overwhelmed with pride for our team. On the second day, we had the honor of assisting with the cadaver dissection workshop. This opportunity to utilize our educational skills was greatly appreciated by the attendees. And we learned just as much! Some of the greats in aesthetics presented, reminding us to be humble in our knowledge. Anatomy is so variable and we need to continually and constantly learn to always give our patients safe results.

Our very own Olivia Kirkpatrick was recently profiled in Bold Journey . This publication celebrates individuals' lives to share wisdom through storytelling. Their features on resilience, productivity, mental health, leadership, and confidence align perfectly with everything that Olivia is all about. Kudos to you, Olivia! You can read the whole article here -- but here's our favorite snippet from the article. Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these? Tenacity, Ambition, and Integrity. My piece of advice is that it doesn't matter how smart you are, it matters how hard you work. Hard work and tenacity outworks intelligence all day. So does integrity. Never compromise your morals and don't take shortcuts - you get what you deserve in life. Always rise above and don't take anything personal.