Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is WAXON Waxbar Founder Lexi Miles, who recognized a gap in the Canadian marketplace when it came to waxing services and filled it by offering a business featuring a high-end, trendy environment with professional, experienced waxologists and competitive prices…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the Founder of WAXON Waxbar, a high-end, trendy waxbar concept that offers both men and women a convenient yet stylish wax experience.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
Prior to opening our first WAXON location, I worked as a management consultant, travelling weekly across Canada and the US. Being a busy business woman, I found I had no time to schedule a wax appointment, let alone spend an hour of my day and $70 on a wax. After far too many waxes behind a shower curtain at my local nail salon, I began to see a gap in the Canadian market: the need for a high-end, trendy environment with professional, experienced waxologists and competitive prices that also accepts walk-ins.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I love what I do, as I am very fortunate and get to wear a lot of different “hats” in my job daily. If I had to choose one best part’it would be the privilege of working with such an amazing team of incredibly smart, driven and hard working women every day.
My biggest challenge right now is expanding while maintaining a successful business so WAXON can provide Canadian-wide market coverage. These challenges include things not usually taught in a classroom, such as raising capital, securing real estate, location design, installation and optimal operational control.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
Wait, that really exists?! Honestly, though, I know I’m off kilter when I don’t have enough time or energy to exercise and wine and dine with friends (post-exercise, of course).
Where do you see yourself in five years?
My goal is to own the number one, largest and fastest-growing waxing business in Canada.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
As we grew the WAXON brand and continued to acquire new locations, there was a point where we had to decide if we wanted to franchise or continue to run the business through our management. After extensive market research I determined that the best course of action in order to preserve the integrity of the business would be to continue to manage through our team.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success to me is building a world-class, growing business offering rewarding careers and delivering an exceptional level of service to our clientele at every opportunity.
My happiness comes from achieving our goals and always raising the bar. Money is simply a by-product of this achievement that allows us to re-invest and accelerate our growth. And let’s be honest, a new pair of shoes or great handbag will always bring a smile to my face.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Each location we open is a big milestone for me. That feeling will never get old! Also, launching our very own WAXON product line was a big accomplishment for my team and I. Our BodyShot is a must-have for all men and women.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t be afraid to recognize and admit your weaknesses. Surround yourself with individuals that make up for those weaknesses and you will have a stacked roster to help you achieve your goals.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
There are so many places I love in Toronto! Sotto Sotto, Playa Cabana, Byblos, Gusto 101, Momofuku and Terroni patio in Summerhill, to name a few.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Going for a run, walking my dog, and curling up on the couch to watch trashy reality TV.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
It would have to be Marbella, Spain for three reasons: sun, shopping and delicious sangria!
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
My other dream job would be working as a daytime TV host. Realistically, I would probably be running my own management consulting business looking for the next hot new business opportunity to embark on.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I am a big believer in giving back and like to focus on a few charities that are close to my team and my heart through our own personal experiences and struggles.
– Ride to Conquer Cancer supporting St. Margaret’s Hospital
– Project Sunshine
– Rethink Breast Cancer
– Peace Builders
– Amici Camping Charity
– Movember
– Julyna
What to you is notable?
Living my life with integrity and optimism and never settling for “ordinary.”
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone all the way!
#NOTABLE
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