- 04 February 2025
- Success Stories & Apprentices & Careers &
GRACIE THOMAS OF GRACIE LOUISE BEAUTY NEAR PRESTON SHARES HER STORY OF BECOMING HER OWN BOSS IN THE BEAUTY THERAPY INDUSTRY.
PUSHING BOUNDARIES
In January 2020, I began my Kleek journey during COVID-19. Despite the challenges, the support I received was amazing. Kleek found ways to work around obstacles, shaping me into the therapist I am today. I’ve set high standards for myself in self-care, presentation and treatment protocol as a positive outcome of learning through the pandemic. After completing training, I achieved two distinctions in my level 2 and 3. I’ve also completed specialist courses including COMCIT training, microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, Reiki and more. I strive for the best, push myself out of my comfort zone, and now I’m my own boss! It’s not been easy but the knowledge I gained at Kleek has been a huge help.
THE HARDEST PART
Transitioning from being employed to owning my own business was a tough internal battle. Taking the leap was scary, but I’m glad I did it. Every day brings new challenges, but I use them to become a better business owner. The knowledge I gained from my apprenticeship, event planning, and representing brands has boosted my confidence in running my own business.
ADVICE FOR NEW STARTERS
Starting in the hair and beauty industry? Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Take every opportunity for extra courses and gain experience. Choose a workplace that suits you. Build relationships with your clients and create a safe space for them to relax and share their stories. I’m happy for my clients to tell me about their troubles, how their child took their first steps or about their latest promotion at work. Relationship building is so important.
SUPPORTED ALL THE WAY
I only have praise for Kleek and my dedicated educator. She has been with me through the good days and the not so good days. The support from Kleek such as the Zoom sessions, mock EPAs, and monthly reviews, was crucial from day one. They also taught me to always look for ways to improve myself as a therapist and my treatments.
LOVING LIFE
My job defines me as a person. I express myself through my treatments and enjoy trying new things. There’s always something new and different in my job, from treatments to improving techniques. I love meeting new people, learning their stories, and understanding different lifestyles and personalities.
APPRENTICESHIPS VALUE
An apprenticeship is the best way to learn and grow into the best therapist. Working in a salon environment with Kleek and the team gives you the best grounding in various treatments and essential customer-facing skills like service and hygiene. Apprentices also get to learn the latest trends. I’m always seeking new ways to improve myself as a therapist and business owner, and that drive comes from the way I’ve been trained—I’ve always been encouraged to be the best version of myself.
