Into the Spotlight, sponsored by Huddersfield-based Scriba PR, is a regular feature which highlights some great businesses. Here we profile Holmfirth-based beauty salon and wellbeing sanctuary Karen Smith Beauty.

A beauty salon and wellbeing sanctuary based in the heart of Holmfirth, Karen Smith Beauty, has risen to prominence since its inception in 2018 – with a full suite of services including medical grade facials and pedicures, hot stone massages, waxing treatments, gel nails and HD brows.

Despite marketing and sales in the leisure space dominating much of founder Karen Smith’s career to date, a yearning for greater control over her working life and a desire to hone in on her passion fuelled a rethink.

Leaving the corporate world behind her in a bid to build a new specialism, Karen learned much of her craft with The White Rose School of Beauty in Huddersfield.

And, despite contending with a combination of personal struggles, perseverance and passion saw her qualify as a fully-trained beauty therapist in 2020, and open up her own business in Holmfirth soon after.

Growing the organisation from the ground up, Karen has quickly and successfully built a loyal customer base in the area. And with a 50-50 split of male and female clients, it’s a real tonic to see such a diverse demographic making the most of the offering – whether for physical or mental wellness reasons, or for a spot of indulgent self-care.

Talking about her favourite aspect of the role, Karen said: “There’s a lot to be said about the word ‘therapy’, and it’s a pleasure to sit and chew the fat with clients from all walks of life.

“A lot of people can feel anxious about being around other people, so it’s important for me to engage in that one-to-one time, to make them feel safe and comfortable.

“The same can be said for my employees. They’re a solid group of professionals, who are very individual and eclectic, yet share the same values and ethics. I feel genuinely empowered to be in their company every week.”

Not one to do things by halves, a spur-of-the-moment idea soon added a whole new dimension to Karen’s offering. While the beauty division continues to provide a comprehensive range of services for local clients, the launch of Smith Spa Therapists in 2021 introduced an additional mobile option too.

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With major corporate fashion brands on the books, Karen’s 25-strong team can often be found delivering desk-based massages in the workplace – increasing morale, boosting mindfulness, and maximising productivity no end.

“And it’s snowballing dramatically,” added Karen. “It’s no secret that businesses rely on their staff to operate. That’s why it’s so important to invest in them, and give something back every once in a while.

“Showing appreciation plays dividends in today’s employment landscape, and a spa treat, whether that’s a spot of aromatherapy or a group massage, certainly goes a long way – not least because the cost of living crisis and changing working patterns means we’re all putting more hours in than ever.”

You can find out more about Karen Smith Beauty, over on Facebook and Instagram, and learn more about Smith Spa Therapists via their website, as well as on Facebook and Instagram.