Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine (she/her) Kirsh-Binner.
Hi Jasmine (she/her), can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Opening Snug as a Bug Massage Therapy was a bit of a leap for me. There was a time in my life when I felt really disconnected; few friends, a career that wasn’t lighting me up, and just generally feeling out of place. I needed a change, and that’s when I decided to enroll in massage school at Lake Superior College. Honestly, I wasn’t sure where it would take me, but here I am, and now I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Before becoming a massage therapist, I spent a lot of years working behind the scenes in salons and spas, helping other people do their thing. I always liked the idea of service, but the whole hair thing never clicked for me. Once I found massage, though, it felt like home. I knew I wanted to create a space where people could truly unwind, let go of stress, and feel cared for. But there was something missing in a lot of wellness spaces—something for bigger-bodied folks. As someone who’s lived in a larger body most of my life, I wanted to make sure that everyone, regardless of size, gender, race, or background, felt welcomed and valued.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The biggest challenge I faced when opening Snug as a Bug was definitely finding the perfect space. When I landed in West Duluth, I knew I had found the right spot, but it wasn’t without its challenges. It’s a historically lower-income area, and I wanted to make sure that I wasn’t contributing to gentrification. That’s why I make a conscious effort to keep my prices affordable, ensuring massage remains accessible for people from all walks of life.
Beyond location, balancing my pricing with the reality of running a business has been tricky. Massage is a luxury service, but I believe it should be more than just a once-in-a-while treat—it can be life-changing when people make it a regular part of their routine. That’s why I keep my prices lower than the average in Duluth, offer Vagaro Pay Later (4 payments, biweekly), as well as offering the Beetle Bubble Membership Program, so more people can enjoy the benefits of regular massage without financial stress.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Snug as a Bug – Massage Therapy?
At Snug as a Bug, the vibe is all about creating a laid-back, welcoming environment. I’m goofy, human, and I like to keep things light because massage doesn’t need to be serious. It’s important to me that my clients feel comfortable, relaxed, and maybe even share a laugh or two while they’re at it. Communication is key in my practice—I encourage my clients to speak up if something feels off, or if they want to tell me what’s working for them. I’m here to adjust and adapt as needed because your comfort is my top priority.
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is being a part of people’s milestones. Whether it’s someone celebrating a new job, getting married, or completing a marathon, I’m grateful to share in those special moments with them. And the best part? Clients coming back, telling their friends and family, and creating this amazing community. It’s not just about providing a service; it’s about building relationships and being there for people when they need it most.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
If you’re thinking about becoming a massage therapist, do it! Massage is a growing field with endless opportunities, and it’s also an awesome way to be self-employed. Find your pace, find your people, and make it your own. Massage is both an art and a practice—it serves not only your clients’ physical well-being but also their mental health. Plus, you’ll attract clients who value what you value, which makes this work even more fulfilling.
One of my tips is to get massages from different practitioners, especially if you’re just starting out. Try a variety of styles and settings. You’ll learn a lot about what works for you as a client, and it’ll help shape your approach as a therapist. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what fits!
Also, remember that it’s okay to start small. You don’t have to have everything figured out at once. I’m still learning every day, taking classes, and adding new techniques to my skillset. Keep growing and stay true to your values.
Pricing:
- $75/hr
- Membership starting at $60/month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.snugasabugmassage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snugasabugmassage/
