The Beauty Lounge celebrates five years in its downtown location this May, and founder, Roberta Socchia, couldn’t be more thrilled. “It’s been a journey to get where I am today, and I am so grateful for everything,” Socchia enthused.
Socchia got into the esthetics business on the advice and encouragement of her mother-in-law. “She owned a hair salon,” Socchia explained, “and advised me to take the esthetics course at college and come and work with her.”
Socchia worked for her mother-in-law and other spas for several years, but always had a yearning to open a spa of her own. Five years ago, the spa she was working for closed, and the opportunity was there. “I took the plunge, and opened my own business, downtown,” Socchia recalls. “I started off small, with just two small rooms in the back, where I did manis, pedis, facials, waxing. There was a hair salon at the front, facing the street.”
Very quickly, the business grew and Socchia needed more room. “The hair salon at the front was leaving, so the landlord agreed I could take over that space,” explained Socchia. “It was the November before the pandemic,” she added.
The pandemic was difficult for The Beauty Lounge, as it was for all personal care businesses. Socchia kept afloat through innovative ideas like the DIY Mother’s Day manis she concocted, with everything needed for nail care at home, as well as a sweet Mother’s Day treat from a local bakery. Her landlord pitched in as well, helping the business through this difficult time.
The Beauty Lounge got through the pandemic, and it was time for more change for Socchia. “I brought on two hair stylists last year,” she said. “They help me a lot, with photos, collaborating on special events, and so much more.”
On May 1, Socchia and The Beauty Lounge will celebrate five years at its downtown location, and one year since the purchase of that building.
Business is thriving, and lots of plans and special events are in the works. The second annual Princess Day is just over, to great success, and Socchia is thinking about making more use of her second floor space, for more special events and happenings.
Socchia also took another leap of faith last year, and bought the building she had been renting since she went out on her own. “My landlord was ready to sell, and he really helped me and was flexible enough to make it work,” she said. “The building was built and owned by a female entrepreneur before, and I really wanted to continue and honour that legacy,” she added.
Socchia said, “I couldn’t have survived or be where I am today, without my customers, and the people of Sault Ste. Marie’s continued support. Word of mouth is so important, and people are always saying, they don’t just enjoy our services, they also enjoy our company. That means a lot to me. I want to thank everyone for the support and look forward to serving you more, in the future.”
The Beauty Lounge is located at 512 Queen St. East, in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, and offers hair and esthetics services.