Sonya Youssef is the owner of Sonya’s Aesthetics, a beauty salon that she opened three years ago in her Fredericton home. She studied French and Spanish at St. Thomas University.
Word of her talents spread quickly. Now, her beauty salon has a crowd of faithful customers who await their appointments eagerly. Youssef was able to transform the beauty salon experience as her customers become her friends. They feel like they’re at home every time they meet her. Whether it is for manis, pedis, waxing, or extensions—they trust Sonya will do the best job.
How and when did you start your beauty salon business?
I was about 13 years old when I realized that this is what I wanted to do when I grew up. I would always polish my own nails and apply makeup every day and I was always interested in the aesthetics field. I’ve been in the field since 2004. I worked at a few salons and at one specifically for six years. When I gained experience and clientele that is when I decided to go out on my own. I’ve always loved the beauty industry and all of the wonderful clients and people I’ve met along the way.
Why do it from home?
I opened up my own salon in 2013. I enjoy working on my own from home. I find it relaxing and I worked with a group of girls before and it was not very enjoyable. I like setting my own hours and being able to take vacation when I would like.
What has been the most challenging part of having your own business?
The most challenging part of owning my own business is constantly having to be available for everybody. I don’t get as much time to myself as other people do. I’ve always said I wanted to own my own business someday. After building such a great clientele and having people constantly wanting to book in with me, it then made me realize that I’m ready to go out on my own and work for myself.
What do you love the most about your business and why?
What I love the most about my business is making clients feel better about themselves. Seeing how happy they get once their nails look pretty and polished or how satisfied clients are when waxing their brows because it shapes their entire face. It makes me feel better seeing others happy and confident with their look.
What is your plan for the future with your business?
My plan for the future is to own my own spa and have a few girls working for me. I eventually would like for my business to grow and have a few hairdressers and massage therapists.
Manis or pedis?
I absolutely love pedicures, it is one of my favourite services to give. It makes such a huge difference once your toes are all pretty, polished and clean.
How is your business different from every day beauty salons?
My business is different because it’s more personal. It’s true one on one interaction. My clients have been very loyal to me and we’ve become friends. A lot of my clients have felt comfortable enough to open up to me. And to me, that’s having true one-on-one interaction with your clients.
When they ask for my opinion, I give them my honest opinion (on whatever it may be) and I know that my clients trust me and are happy that I can help in any possible way.
