Today we’d like to introduce you to Meeg-Wun Desjarlait
Hi Meeg-wun, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into the world of aesthetics was somewhat unexpected but deeply rooted in my lifelong passions. As an Indigenous woman from Red Lake, Minnesota, I’ve always felt a strong connection to caring for others, embracing beauty, and exploring entrepreneurship. Growing up, I loved trying different skincare products, but I didn’t always understand what my skin truly needed.
In 2019, I set out to become a lash tech, thinking that was the path for me. Around that time, Minnesota’s licensing laws changed, requiring certification to practice lash extensions. While researching my options, I discovered esthetics and it was like a lightbulb went off. I had no idea you could build a career in skincare, but the moment I realized that, I knew I’d found my calling.
I enrolled in a esthiology program where I pursued both basic and advanced practice esthetics. While I was in my AP program, COVID hit, delaying my graduation and leading to my layoff. Despite the uncertainty, I pressed forward and completed my AP training in September 2020.
Starting a business during the pandemic might have seemed risky, but I believed in the power of change. Taking that leap gave me room to evolve, and that’s why butterflies have such a meaningful symbol for me they represent transformation and growth. My first location was in Brooklyn Center, but I knew I needed a space that aligned better with the business I was building. A year later, I relocated to Golden Valley, where I now serve my community.
For a long time, I felt like I was dimming my own light. But through Skin Therapy, I’ve found my spark and now, I’m determined to help others do the same. My mission is to inspire, educate, and create an inclusive space where self-care is not just encouraged but celebrated. Skin health is wellness, and I want to empower my clients to see caring for themselves as an essential part of their well-being.
I’m incredibly proud to be a multicultural esthetician, bridging gaps in the industry and uplifting my community by promoting self-love and self-care, ensuring that people of all walks of life feel seen, valued, and cared for. Skin Therapy isn’t just about facials and treatments, it’s about nurturing confidence, embracing transformation and creating a space where self-care thrives.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Entrepreneurship definitely has its ups and downs. Being your own boss doesn’t mean working 9-5, it means you’re on the clock 24/7. But is it worth it? Absolutely. There’s no better feeling than helping others on their self-care journey.
One of my biggest challenges over the past year and a half has been navigating motherhood while running my business. In September 2023, I welcomed my firstborn, my son and he has been the greatest blessing in my life. Around the same time, I brought another esthetician, Gwen, into the Skin Therapy family. Watching her thrive has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m so proud of the growth she’s achieved.
Balancing motherhood and business ownership has been a learning experience. I chose to breastfeed, which meant devoting my body every day to nourish my son. This decision required me to step back a bit from Skin Therapy to focus on him, but I knew it was the right choice for our family. While it hasn’t always been easy to juggle both roles, I’ve found a way to make it work.
I remind myself that breastfeeding won’t last forever, and neither will these precious moments with my son while he’s still little. Time moves fast, and I know I’ll never regret choosing to be present during these early years. Embracing this season, with all its challenges, has taught me patience, balance, and the importance of giving myself grace. It’s not always a smooth road, but this journey has made me stronger — both as a mother and an entrepreneur.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Skin Therapy is an Indigenous-owned aesthetic studio dedicated to promoting corrective skincare, self-care, and wellness. Established in 2019, my goal has always been to create a safe space where people of all skin tones and backgrounds feel seen, valued, and supported on their skincare journey.
At Skin Therapy, we specialize in results-driven treatments that address a variety of skin concerns. Our offerings include customized facials, advanced treatments like microneedling, and brow and lash services, all designed to enhance skin health and build confidence. What sets us apart is our commitment to education and inclusivity. As a multicultural esthetician, I pride myself on understanding diverse skin types and conditions, ensuring every client receives personalized care that’s tailored to their unique needs.
I’m incredibly proud of the growth Skin Therapy has experienced, but what means the most to me is the connection I’ve built with my clients and community. Bringing on Gwen, our talented esthetician, has allowed us to expand our reach and continue providing exceptional care.
We also have some exciting things in the works that I can’t wait to share soon — new offerings and updates that will elevate the Skin Therapy experience even more. My mission has always been to create an inspiring space where self-care isn’t just encouraged, it’s celebrated and I’m excited to continue growing that vision. Stay tuned!
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I believe risk is an essential part of growth both personally and professionally. While taking risks can be intimidating, I’ve learned that stepping outside of my comfort zone has always led to some of my greatest achievements.
One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was opening Skin Therapy in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. With so much uncertainty surrounding businesses at that time, starting something new felt daunting. But I knew in my heart that this was my path, and I trusted that investing in myself and my vision would pay off. Looking back, I’m so grateful I took that leap because Skin Therapy has grown into something so much bigger than I imagined.
Another significant risk was expanding my team while stepping back slightly from the business to focus on my son. As a mom and entrepreneur, balancing both roles wasn’t easy, but I knew that bringing in Gwen was the right decision. It allowed Skin Therapy to continue thriving while I devoted time to my family, a decision I wouldn’t change for anything.
Now, I’m preparing for another exciting change with some big updates coming soon. While growth always comes with uncertainty, I’ve learned that taking calculated risks is what drives progress. I truly believe that if you stay true to your vision, trust your instincts, and embrace the challenges that come with stepping into the unknown, incredible things can happen.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.skintherapyllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skintherapymn?igsh=Y2lvZDVkcGFmaHRu
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Y8MA694CK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://g.page/r/CboiV2YFQjudEBE/review
