Seeking medical aesthetic treatments can be both challenging and intimidating for members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. With the beauty and wellness industry often upholding binaries or stereotypes, queer individuals may find it difficult to receive gender-affirming care. This is especially true for services that may be sensitive in nature or evoke emotional responses in clients. As a certified medical aesthetician with over 20 years of experience, Jennifer from Indulgence Studio has witnessed these challenges in individuals seeking treatments over the years. This has played a crucial role in Jennifer’s dedication to provide personalized services in a welcoming and inclusive space.
Prior to founding Indulgence Studio, pain is what first brought Jennifer into the medical aesthetics industry. Growing up, Jennifer described her father as having many talents, but helping her navigate issues like excess hair growth and acne was not one of them. These personal experiences motivated Jennifer to explore treatments on her own, and this eventually led to her pursuing a career in medical aesthetics. Near the beginning of her career, Jennifer recognized that the beauty and spa industries were not solely about pampering. With a passion for helping others find more wholistic wellness practices, the vision for Indulgence Studio came into focus.
Serving the Waterloo Region Community for Over 20 Years
Throughout the past 20 years that Indulgence Studio has been serving the Waterloo Region community, Jennifer’s intention has always been to create a supportive environment where individuals can access the resources they need to support their wellness journey. Jennifer feels a strong connection to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community as an ally. Almost 70% of the guests at Indulgence studios are queer and trans, and Jennifer feels honoured that these individuals trust Indulgence Studio as a safe place to be their authentic selves.
Every new client of Indulgence Studio starts with a free consultation that allows Jennifer to understand their needs fully. Clients may come into Indulgence Studio unsure about which treatments are right for them, and consultations are a great time for Jennifer to talk through different options. This is followed by collaboratively creating a personalized treatment plan that caters to each guest’s unique goals and any concerns they may have. Certain treatments can be long and tedious. This provides Jennifer and her clients with opportunities to listen to audiobooks and podcasts together, and bond over their shared interests.
Much of the comfort established between Jennifer and folks accessing services is accomplished through her exceptional bedside manner, including active listening, asking questions, and providing services that the 2SLGBTQIA+ community have requested. As part of this safe space, Jennifer aims to create an environment where folks can try out new pronouns, chosen names, clothing, eyebrow styles, and other gender-affirming expressions.
Community, Classes and Events
In addition to providing medical aesthetic treatments, Jennifer also uses Indulgence Studio as a place to hold educational classes and community events led by community leaders. These have included voice intensives, makeup lessons for beginners, clothing drives, pre-surgery information sessions, craft nights, live music jams, and more.
Jennifer’s desire for the future is to see more 2SLGBTQIA+ representation in the medical aesthetics industry. Having more medical aestheticians who are queer affirming and a part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is essential for addressing the specific needs of clients with diverse gender identities and expressions. Jennifer shared, “As someone who has personally experienced the importance of receiving needed services in a welcoming and caring environment, it means the world to me. It validates our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space where individuals can feel comfortable, understood, and supported. It inspires us to continue pushing boundaries, advocating for the community, and striving to exceed expectations.” By ensuring more medical aestheticians are educated, compassionate, and able to relate to the lived experiences of their clients, Jennifer hopes for an industry that is collectively safer and more inclusive of the individuals being served.
Collaborate and Grow With Us at Indulgence Studio
Did you know Indulgence Studio offers a nurturing space for a variety of classes and events? As Jennifer, I am thrilled to collaborate with our local talents, hosting activities like makeup lessons, voice therapy, wellness classes, and more. Collaborate at no cost or book our space for private events at $50 a day. Includes amenities like ample parking and versatile spaces. Join us in creating shared experiences that leave folks feeling safe, heard, and respected. I, Jennifer, eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you to Indulgence Studio, where together we can learn, explore, and grow in a space that embodies our community’s spirit.
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