L'invite
17 January 2023Alicia Lartey expert Esthetician
This month we caught up with Alicia Lartley, an expert Esthetician who just opened her clinic and also came to Kimai to design a bespoke diamond necklace.
What first sparked your interest in skincare?
I’ve had very severe acne and I have always been very experimental! I believed that no one at the time could be what I wanted in terms of skin care assistance so I wanted to be that person for someone else.
What was it like opening your studio last year?
I hate business admin so much, it is truly the worst thing in the world but I would do it all again! I have met so many amazing clients and there is nothing like hands-on experience.
Did you always know that you wanted to start a business?
I actually got my skincare qualifications and did not want to own a studio, I woke up one day and decided that it would be fun and I had signed a lease within the week.
You’re also an avid beauty writer, how did you get started writing?
I actually struggle with writing so much, but I am very opinionated and sometimes opinions need to be read and not heard to give people enough time to process it. Many moons ago, I used to transcribe a podcast, to turn into blog posts so I picked up a few skills there. One of my favourite influencers of all time started a lifestyle blog and I was approached to write a few beauty features, that’s when it all took off.
What does jewelry mean to you?
Jewellery is like a second skin for me, I sleep in my jewellery, I shower with my jewellery (which is probably not advised) but it helps me to feel connected to my creativity and beauty … even without clothes on.
How did you first discover Kimaï?
I heard about kimai during my research into ethical diamonds and whilst I was on the hunt for bespoke jewellery from a brand that I could trust.
What inspired you to create your custom piece?
My custom piece is the map of Ghana which is where I am from. I have always seen necklaces like this on social media but I knew they were not gold and often from mass production websites. I wanted something that would fit me well, that I could make custom tweakments to.
You’re well known and admired for your honest product reviews, why do you think the skincare industry can be so opaque and confusing to navigate?
There are so many factors at play here, I think sometimes people get wrapped up in being on PR lists or being in a brand’s good books so that sometimes warps people’s opinions, or some people genuinely do not have the skincare knowledge to be able to decipher a good product from a bad one.
Any tips for people wanting to follow in your footsteps?
I’ve never considered the idea of someone seeing me as potentially inspiring, that’s really concerning! I have lived my life with the idea that I can make anything happen if I love the idea enough, if you have that passion you will be fine.
What's next for you in 2023?
Hopefully some more travelling, in terms of my career, I will be moving more into education, product development and some behind the scenes bits. I just wish myself a lot of happiness for next year, I want my heart to be full.
Thank you for speaking with us Alicia!
If you want to follow Alicia you can find her here
Interested in your own bespoke necklace? Get in touch with one of our designers and book an appointment!