My parents have always been a profound source of inspiration. My mother, a retired midwife, had a remarkable career but never passed down her expertise. My father, respected in the niche world of VW wartime vehicles, possessed unparalleled knowledge he chose not to teach. The thought of such wisdom disappearing with time left me resolute — I wouldn’t let my own experiences fade away. I wanted to share my story and empower others with the lessons I had learned.

By the spring of 2022, the spark reignited. I cautiously began considering a return to the industry, but this time, with greater clarity. I no longer sought to recreate what once was. Instead, I wanted to build something intentional and refined. Though I had sold most of my equipment when I closed Bromley, one item remained — my electrolysis machine. With a modest amount of capital saved, I embraced simplicity and specialized in what I knew best.

With no budget for a web developer, I reclaimed access to my old website and faced the daunting task of rebuilding it myself. Each step of that process was a challenge, but the experience proved invaluable. Slowly, I rediscovered my confidence and the pride of creating something from the ground up.

After months of searching, I found a room to rent at a podiatry clinic near home. The owner’s warmth and professionalism made the opportunity feel serendipitous. I began offering permanent hair removal services, taking those first tentative steps back into the industry. Simultaneously, I quietly started offering coaching calls. Word spread, and friends connected me with those seeking mentorship. Each conversation rekindled my passion, reminding me of the joy I found in supporting others.

Then, in September 2022, Stella Carina Beauty reopened at Active Podiatry, specializing in electrolysis. My clientele grew rapidly, and just weeks later, opportunity called once more. A nearby unit on a farm was soon to become available. Curiosity led me there, and the moment I stepped onto the property, I saw its potential. The idyllic Kent countryside was a peaceful escape, offering a unique setting for my next venture.

By the end of October 2022, I committed to the space, balancing my work at Active Podiatry while bringing my vision to life. But transforming an empty shell into two functional rooms was no easy feat. I faced restrictions: I couldn’t paint the walls or secure materials using screws or nails. Engineering free-standing, stable structures without compromising aesthetics became my greatest challenge. Building two door frames without attaching anything to the walls was particularly daunting. Each decision required meticulous planning, yet with patience and determination, I found solutions.

While mid-construction, I offered the second room to a therapist I knew was searching for a space. She accepted, and by February 2023, we both settled into our respective rooms. Our services complemented each other beautifully, with referrals flowing seamlessly between us. It was an effortless collaboration from the start.

By spring, as the farm blossomed, a growing demand for skin treatments emerged. While neither of us initially offered these services, I listened to my clients’ needs. Slowly and thoughtfully, I reintroduced my signature skin treatments. Electrolysis, advanced blemish removal, and bespoke skin services became the core of my practice.

A year later, we were thriving. In May 2024, another opportunity arose. The neighboring unit, which I had walked past so many times, imagining its possibilities, became available. After careful thought, I decided to expand.

My initial plan was to create two additional rooms to rent out, but as ideas swirled in my mind, one vision stood out. Over three months of deliberation, I arrived at my decision: the space would become a dedicated skin clinic, with the future goal of launching the Stella Skin School in 2026.

Next month, in April 2025, my new skin space will open, offering both my existing treatments and a selection of new services. Designing it without external financial pressure has been a liberating experience. Every choice was deliberate, every detail reflective of my passion for skincare and education.

Reflecting on these past three years, I’m deeply grateful for the unexpected turns and invaluable lessons. Closing Bromley felt like an ending, but it became the foundation for a greater beginning. Through it all, I’ve raised my two sons, now 17 and 13, who have witnessed firsthand my resilience and dedication. I hope they carry those values with them as they carve their own paths.

As I stand on the threshold of this new chapter, preparing to open my skin clinic and eventually Stella Skin School, I’m filled with anticipation. While the future remains uncertain, I embrace the unknown, knowing that every challenge has led me here. And this time, I’m ready for whatever comes next.