Unique and Special Kids Spa is not just a spa but an entire experience for kids. They provide a wide variety of spa and salon services such as manicures, pedicures, facials, full haircare services, massages, as well as spa parties. Unique and Special Kids Spa primarily service children, but offer select services for adults.

I had the amazing opportunity to chat with the owner about the amazing spa for kids, check out our interview below!

What is the Mission of Unique and Special Kids Spa?

As a Virginia licensed childcare professional for the past 17 years, I have worked with and learn from children of different ages and backgrounds. One thing that stands out in every child is their desire and need to feel unique and special. While I may not satisfy that desire and need in all children, this business helps as many as possible. We designed this spa for kids, a place of their own, where they can feel like royalty, without judgement.My Mother brought me to a (grown up) spa as a child and she was with me the first time I took my daughters. She has inspired me to help other parents create lasting memories with their sons and daughters in a place made just for them. All of us at Unique and Special Kids Spa are dedicated to ensuring that each person, big or little, has a positive and memorable experience.

Tell me about the experience of being being a Black, Woman and Family owned business.

I have been a childcare business owner for 17 years and I have encountered unique personalities and preferences. I have had people take one look at me, for the first time, and say “Oh! You sound different on the phone”, as they turn around and leave without engaging in the actual interview for childcare. Encounters like that shaped my attitude about going into this kids’ spa business. I felt that the color of my skin had been an inhibitor and, seemingly, a hinderance. While my childcare business is blessed and is successful, I wanted everyone to experience and enjoy what we were offering at the spa without being hung up on WHO was offering it.

When we first opened, I went to great lengths to hide the identity of “the owner”. Putting people out in front of the business who were more “acceptable”. Only posting pictures on social media that included mixed crowds of workers. It scared me to let the world know that an African-American woman owned this amazing business. I was being encouraged to, as Queen Elsa (Frozen) put it, “SHOW YOURSELF!”, by many of my friends, employees and family. It wasn’t until I started performing as Princess Tiana that I started feeling comfortable being out in front. Who knew that Disney princesses could actually inspire confidence in adults as well?

That was the kick in the pants that I needed. I realized two things:

1. I should never hide myself. I am innovative and talented, driven and strong, successful and blessed. The world deserves to acknowledge that.
2. All money is NOT good money. If you don’t want to patronize my business because of a personal prejudice, then I don’t want you to patronize my business because of your personal prejudice. Everything is not for everybody.

I am blessed to have a business with my family. My oldest daughter and I are licensed cosmetologists, my youngest daughter works front desk and spa party support and my husband is our resident scientist and camp leader. We have a lot to be thankful for.

What is a positive message to upcoming entrepreneurs?

Do it!!! Count the costs first. Leap second. The world of humankind embraces creativity. Allow yourself to embody your creativity. Don’t allow others to stifle your dreams. Not every dream should become a reality, but that is YOUR decision to make.

Check out Unique and Special Kids Spa for yourself!