MY SALON Suite, a co-working style space where salon professionals provide beauty services to their clients in private, custom suites, has announced the winner of its national “Unlock Your Dream Suite” contest: Chesterfield, VA resident Shaela Thomas, owner of Soulful Intentions Esthetics. Thomas will receive one year of complimentary membership in a luxury suite in Short Pump, VA, one of MY SALON Suite’s more than 270 locations across the U.S. and Canada.
More than 600 beauty stylists submitted a one-minute video expressing their specialty, expertise, creativity, and personality, and sharing why they deserve to be MY SALON Suite’s next beauty entrepreneur. Submissions were reviewed by a MY SALON Suite panel who selected the top 10 entries. The public was then invited to vote for their favorite finalist.
Thomas is a licensed esthetician specializing in facials, skincare, waxing, and lash and brow services, and is currently enrolled in a master’s program in advanced skincare to expand the services she can offer to her clients. Mom to Kyhiem, Jr., who is almost two, Thomas has been passionate about skincare for as long as she can remember. While she wants her clients to enjoy how they look and feel after their treatments, she is also committed to educating them on the vital role skin plays as the body’s largest organ.
“While we all want to achieve that glowy look, there is so much to learn about our overall health from our skin, which is where many health concerns first start. I’m thrilled by this incredible opportunity provided by MY SALON Suite to bring my passion for skincare to life,” said Thomas. “This next year will allow me to be more intentional in growing my business and building my clientele without having to worry about paying rent. I can’t wait to witness the growth, experiences, and opportunities Soulful Intentions will embark on throughout the next year!”
Looking ahead, Thomas plans to one day open her own spa where aspiring beauty professionals can pursue their own dreams as she has. She also hopes to expand her client base to include celebrities.
"We were so impressed by Shaela’s entrepreneurial drive and her commitment to creating a personalized experience for each of her clients,” said Stacy Eley, brand president of Suite Management Franchising, franchisor of MY SALON Suite. “We look forward to watching her flourish as a Member of the Suite Elite as she brings her inspirational spirit to MY SALON Suite in Short Pump!”