Today we’d like to introduce you to Lakevia Wilcher
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Becoming a licensed massage therapist was never something I saw myself doing. After giving birth to my son back in 2019, I experienced a brief period of postpartum depression which resulted in me doing things such as getting massages and facials solely to allow myself some well deserved “me time”. After about 3-4 massages I saw a significant improvement in my mood, stress levels and overall wellbeing. I thought to myself “I should massage pregnant women!” It became an immediate passion to help women get through the journey of pregnancy. Long story short I went to school graduated within a year and started my business shortly after. Now I have expanded my skill set to all body types and genders and since I was always a recipient of body sculpting it was only right that I added that to my niche.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Entrepreneurship has been an adventure to say the least. Starting a business straight out of school I had no idea how many L’s I would have to take. Going months without clients, selling myself short to get clients, cancellations, etc. it was a challenge. Eventually I was employed at a spa where I gained more confidence in my ability to maintain a clientele and experience different body types and contraindications. It has definitely helped me build a steady portfolio in the body work industry.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Towards the end of my massage program I had to create a business plan. It took me no time to come up with the name-I chose Karess which spelled in its original form ‘Caress’, means gentle, loving touch. I wanted something that was soft and welcoming especially because my intentions were to cater to women. When I reflect on my own motherhood journey I wish that self care was a priority-specifically amongst black women. Some, if not majority of us grew up to be strong, independent and hardworking regardless of the circumstances. But for me being a woman also includes being delicate, soft and being able to relinquish the burden of doing it all. At Karess I encourage all women to take time for themselves whether it’s once a week or once a month. I offer Swedish, Lymphatic and Deep tissue massages, wood therapy and body sculpting services as well as assisted stretching sessions. The goal for Karess is to continue to expand, reaching out to all women-young and aged. I would love to create a safe space for women to indulge in the benefits of physical and mental wellness at an affordable cost.
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