Today we’d like to introduce you to Matisse Johnson.
Hi Matisse, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into skincare started when I enrolled in esthetician school and discovered a true passion for skin health and beauty. I knew early on that I wanted to create a space where people could receive high quality care while also feeling seen, confident, and empowered.
After graduating, I opened my first solo business in 2018, Lela’s Virtue Lounge was a small suite where I built a loyal clientele. It was successful right away, and within a year I was able to expand and hire a team of four. That growth inspired me to take things even further and open #FACE is now my storefront in Uptown Minneapolis on Lake Street.
#FACE officially opened in October 2020, and we’ll be celebrating 5 years in that space this October 2025. As a Black woman-owned business, that milestone means so much to me. It’s not just about staying open, it’s about thriving in a space where representation, care, and community matter. I take so much pride in holding space for clients to feel seen, celebrated, and supported, and I’m committed to building something lasting. Not just for myself, but for the community I serve.
Our mission at #FACE is to help people feel confident in their skin and more informed about their skincare health. All in a welcoming and affirming environment. It’s been a beautiful yet challenging journey, and I’m grateful for every step.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. As a business owner, especially in a brick-and-mortar space, there are challenges you never expect. Over the years, I’ve experienced more than seven crime-related incidents at my spa. The most impactful was a dumpster fire in July 2024 that forced me to shut down for 79 days. That time away caused a major loss, not just in revenue, but also in clientele and staff.
Since reopening on October 15th, 2024, I’ve been working hard to rebuild, navigating the struggle of making full rent payments while also trying to restore the team and momentum we had before the fire. On top of that, I’m also a new mom, which adds another layer of complexity to balancing life and business.
Despite all of this, I’m still standing. I’m still showing up. And I’m committed to rebuilding something even stronger. The challenges have been real, but so is the passion and purpose behind #FACE.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At #FACE, we specialize in customized skincare and self-care experiences for both women and men. We offer a range of services including facials, lash extensions, and full-body waxing. One of the things that makes our space unique is our setup. We have a facial bar with three open spa beds for express services and community style care, as well as two private spa rooms for those who prefer a more intimate and quiet experience.
Whether it’s a Hydrafacial, a brow wax, or a full body service, our goal is always the same: to help every client feel confident and cared for in their skin. We work with all skin types and tones, and we pride ourselves on being an inclusive space where clients feel seen and supported.
What I’m most proud of is the environment I have created, #FACE is a space that feels safe, warm, and affirming. I believe skincare is personal and powerful, and we meet people where they are in their journey. I also take pride in being a Black woman owned business that has stayed true to its values while adapting and growing through the years. That connection, care, and community is what truly sets us apart.
How do you think about luck?
I don’t really view things through the lens of luck. I’m a Christian woman, so I believe everything I’ve experienced, good or bad, has been part of God’s plan and provision. While some might say my business has had “bad luck”, especially with the number of crime incidents we’ve faced, I see it differently. Through it all, I’ve felt God’s protection covering #FACE in a very real way.
There have been challenges, absolutely. But the ease in which I started my business, found my location, and built a loyal client base has been nothing short of a blessing. Even in tough seasons, I’ve been sustained by faith, community, and a deep sense of purpose. I truly believe #FACE exists the way it does because of divine favor, not chance, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.
Pricing:
- $60 Brazilian Wax
- $100 60 minute customized facial – The Lounge
- $205 Deluxe Hydrafacial – Facial Bar
- $30 Eyebrow Wax
- $150 Classic Lash Extensions
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.faceoflelas.com
- Instagram: @faceoflelas
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/faceoflelas
