When Anna Campbell reflects on the hurdles and milestones that launched her professional career as an esthetician in Montrose, it’s with gratitude.

Campbell launched her business, Lovely Aesthetics, in March 2023, but the eight-by-nine-foot room couldn’t deter Campbell’s enthusiasm. It didn’t take the entrepreneur long to embrace the value of starting small.

Anna Campbell, owner of Lovely Aesthetics in Montrose. (Provided photo)

“It was a tiny space, but I wasn’t afraid to dive in,” Campbell told the Montrose Business Times. “A lot of people are scared to be seen starting small, but I’ve found that there’s a lot of support for those who do.”

Since its launch, Lovely Aesthetics has evolved from a small one-room setup into her own space at 1010 South Cascade Ave., where Campbell now offers personalized skin care services. One of Campbell’s most popular offerings is small group parties, including birthday celebrations, where guests enjoy facials and self-care in a relaxed environment.

Lovely Aesthetics offers small group spa party services at 1010 South Cascade Ave., Suite C, in Montrose. (Provided photo)

Campbell, born and raised in Southern California, graduated from esthetician school in 2007. Anxiety hindered her from completing her state board exams in California, but Campbell made a promise to herself: She would obtain her license before turning 40.

Then, COVID-19 hit the world, throwing a wrench in the promise she had made herself. While the pandemic slowed Campbell’s progress, she returned to school just before that milestone birthday. At 40, she officially became a licensed esthetician.

“My first paying client was a big moment,” Campbell recalled. “I cried while setting up the room. It felt like such an accomplishment.”

Before launching Lovely Aesthetics, Campbell worked as a makeup artist for seven years, helping women in the U.S. and Canada simplify their makeup routines. Her love for enhancing natural beauty continues in her esthetician work, where she hopes to help clients feel confident in their own skin.

“I can host parties of up to 12 people,” Campbell said of her updated spa party services. “We offer guided facials where attendees cleanse and apply masks themselves or mini facials that I provide while they mingle. Even younger clients love it. It kind of feels like a sleepover.”

The esthetician noted the competitive nature of the skincare industry, particularly with newcomers offering low-cost services. When a newly licensed esthetician advertises, for example, facials for $30, business owners like Campbell struggle to compete due to overhead costs.

“I focus on not comparing myself to others and believe my people will find me,” said Campbell. “It’s important that I maintain my standards and educate clients on the value of our quality products and services.”

The seasonal nature of the industry has proven to be another wrench in Campbell’s business plans – the summer slump was more than she bargained for.

“Last summer was tough,” Campbell said. “I didn’t anticipate how slow summers would be. Location visibility is also an issue. I’m working with the city to get a sign so more people can find me.”

This year, Lovely Aesthetics will be adjusting promotions and focusing on building its core client base while Campbell bolsters her spa party services in Montrose.

When not in the treatment room, Campbell enjoys spending time with her mother and indulging her creative side by painting or rearranging furniture.

“I genuinely want to help people feel confident and beautiful,” Campbell said. “It’s never too late to create the life you dream of.”