Elaine Sterling wasn’t sure when or how her spa Esthétique (opened in January of 2019) would survive when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Like many other small businesses in Sandy Springs, she made the right decision for her staff and customers and closed the doors. Facing uncertain times, Elaine did her best for those working for her and helped them file for unemployment. She offered incentives to her clients that if they purchased gift cards during the shutdown with 100% of those proceeds supporting employees to help them during troublesome days.
Through it all, Esthétique managed to come out of the other side when the restrictions were lifted in early May. Elaine knew that re-opening wouldn’t be easy, especially re-opening the safe way, but she also knew that after months of being on lockdown, people were ready to come back. And she was right!
Following the strictest of guidelines set down by the CDC and the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology, Elaine invested in PPE, worked out new protocols that put staff and client safety first including rigorous sanitation and cleaning between clients. Her team did a thorough clean of the entire Spa and storefront to ensure social distancing guidelines could be followed.
When the email went out about the books opening up again, the clients responded. Even though business wasn’t where it was pre-COVID, people had a clear need for their skin treatments and wanted to come back to a place that continually receives 5-star ratings on both Google and Yelp.
For the last few months, Elaine has encourage business by offering hefty discounts on services (they are doing 40% off all services until December 31, 2020) and other specials like adding new services such as waxing for both men and women, even hiring two new Estheticians directly from the school she founded, the Elaine Sterling Insitute. Esthétique managed to survive the economic rollercoaster, but Elaine knows they’re not out of the woods yet. She and her team continue to innovate, think on their feet and put customers and staff safety first with every decision they make.
"Each day is a new day and we look forward to welcoming current and new clients into our relaxing, luxurious spa environment."
Elaine Sterling
