Hello hello! I am Shelby Hopkins, born and raised in Calgary, Alberta!

I currently work at the beautiful Reign Med Spa location in the south of Calgary. I provide everything from traditional Esthetics such as pedicures and lash lifts all the way to Medical Esthetics such as Dermaneedling and Laser Hair Removal to name a few. I consider myself very fortunate to have acquired the skills that I have, as I love the variety each spa day provides me. When I am not treating my lovely clients, I am also the South Store Supervisor at the Beauty Depot, one of the top Spa Distributors in Canada. In addition, I assist with CIDESCO Section Canada, CESA, on their marketing and social media. In my spare time, I enjoy exploring different dance styles and attending Pilates classes for my body, mind and of course skin! Visit me in person or on my IG page @shelbynoellebeauty!

What first drew you to esthetics, and what has kept you passionate about the industry?

I was incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to take a cosmetology class outside of my designated high school, which ultimately led me to enroll in an Esthetics program. It was during this time that I fell head over heels for the beauty industry. From the collective and supportive energy amongst classmates, to the sense of fulfillment with each client I served, I knew I had found my calling. I vividly remember going the extra mile, quite literally, traveling an additional 20 to 30 minutes to another high school to pursue my passion for learning within the field.

The joy I experience when a client walks out feeling pampered and cared for is unparalleled. There's something incredibly rewarding about being able to gift someone with a sense of love and self-care that most people neglect for themselves. I feel very fortunate to complete each spa day with a feeling of fulfillment from providing this level of care to my clients. 

As my love for esthetics and the beauty industry continued to flourish, I stumbled upon the Esthetic Institute. Instantly, I knew it was the perfect environment for me to grow both professionally and personally. From the moment I drove past the school to the day I stepped into its beautiful classrooms, I felt welcomed and inspired. The nurturing atmosphere not only enhanced my skills in esthetics but also contributed to my personal growth in a positive way.

Looking back, how has your training or education shaped your confidence and career path?

I will forever appreciate my time at The Esthetic Institute. The ways in which I have grown within this company on a personal and professional level cannot be fully expressed. My journey began with the completion of the CIDESCO program at TEI. The experience during the 9-month intensive course not only shaped who I am today but also taught me valuable lessons in self-love, confidence, and supporting others. Entering as the youngest student in the CIDESCO class, I approached with a mix of timidity and uncertainty. I have so much gratitude for the educators, Meredith Thompson, Stacy Causier and Julie-Anne Des Roches and my fellow classmates who have taught me skills not only in Esthetics but also guiding me to confidently shine as my true self in which I continue to this day. Additionally, my educators equipped me with the best of esthetics training through the CIDESCO Diploma, recognized as the highest standard not only in Canada but worldwide. This comprehensive education empowered me to confidently advocate for myself, acknowledge my worth, and uphold exemplary standards as both an employee and a service provider.

What has been one defining challenge in your journey so far, and what did it teach you?

Working as a contractor in the spa setting offers numerous advantages I’ve discussed above, and notably the flexibility it provides in my schedule. However, I've encountered and continue to work on establishing healthy boundaries both with clients and within my various professional roles in the industry over the years. One of the most significant challenges I've learned is the importance of self-care and granting oneself grace while striving for excellence and growth.

The beauty industry naturally attracts driven and entrepreneurial individuals, and it's common for us to struggle with avoiding overexertion. Personally, finding this balance remains an ongoing journey for me. However, over time, I've become more adept at advocating for myself and achieving a better balance between work and personal life.

How do you approach building a sustainable career in esthetics while managing balance and wellbeing?

With my involvement within Beauty Depot, Reign Med Spa, CESA, as well as running my own Beauty Instagram page, it is definitely difficult at times to balance my personal time with my work. Through the trials and errors of overcommitting myself to my work, I have been able to balance my jobs and personal life a lot more effectively. I have found setting realistic goals for myself and allowing myself to ask for help when needed has aided me in creating a healthy work-life balance throughout this process. I am happy to say that providing healthy boundaries for myself, clients and my employer has allowed me to continue that balance. I advocate working hard and continually growing; however, I think being able to enjoy life with friends, family and hobbies outside of work is just as important.

Share a moment where something didn’t go as planned—what did you learn from it?

Throughout my journey in the beauty industry, I've encountered numerous opportunities for growth. Each misstep has served as a stepping stone, guiding me to where I am today, for which I am very grateful.

One crucial lesson I've embraced is the significance of celebrating each other's unique beauty and encouraging mutual support for one another. In our industry, there's often a pressure to conform to certain standards of perfection, which can be challenging. Personally, I've struggled with acne, an ongoing journey that has taught me acceptance and resilience. While I've been fortunate to have access to the best and most effective treatments, I've come to understand that imperfection is natural and should be embraced.

What advice would you give to future estheticians who want to build a long-term career in this industry?

For anyone considering a career in the beauty industry, my advice would be, it's what you make of it. The potential for fulfillment is infinite along with the effort you decide to invest. Within this industry, the options are limitless, offering endless possibilities for growth and exploration. Personally, I've discovered that maintaining a dedicated commitment to growth and embracing the opportunities that resonate with me has been instrumental in providing exciting opportunities and ensuring ongoing fulfillment in my pursuits.

My experience with this dynamic industry has not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to forge invaluable relationships within the esthetics community. The sense of mutual support, where ideas are exchanged freely, advice is readily given, and discussions about new products and techniques is truly something to cherish. 

There are many benefits to entering into the beauty industry. In particular, being able to infuse your business and services with your personal touch is immensely gratifying. I adore the creative freedom and the opportunity to spread my love of esthetics and enhance one’s beauty among both friends and clients.