We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Tillery and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
A few years ago I was having a conversation with a very good friend and we were talking about things we wish we could do even as we got older. Growing up I wanted to be a trauma surgeon, but life got in the way and I never pursued my medical career. As we kept talking, the topic of owning a waxing studio somehow came up. She said “Oh my goodness, you’d be great at it.” At the time, my kids were still in school and I couldn’t find a program that would work with my schedule. When my youngest was a senior I decided it was time to take the plunge. I found a school that not only worked with my schedule but was the perfect fit. My goal in mind at this point was to open a stand alone waxing and facial studio after I graduated.

What should our readers know about your business?
Was & Glow Esthetics is a stand alone full service waxing and facial salon who opened their doors in April 2024. My goal in mind was to give my clients undivided attention. They weren’t going to be just a number to me or a revolving door. Each one comes in as a stranger but leaves as a friend. I make sure I remember details from the previous appointments and check in with them the next time they come. Making that personal connection with them I thinks makes them feel like they matter. Growing as quickly as I did has been the biggest blessing and makes me the most proud. I jumped in with both feet and haven’t looked back. The process definitely wasn’t easy, but has been the most rewarding. In the beginning, I was just happy to make enough each month to cover rent and utilities. I kept my head up and my confidence building. Many lessons I have learned along the way, never give up, stand on your policies, and don’t stop pushing forward. I built Wax & Glow from the ground up with determination, perseverance, and $500. In January 2025, my very good friend Jayda, who is a licensed nail tech and owner of Jayda the Nail Tech came on board with me and we haven’t looked back since.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Barnesville is a very small town located in Lamar County, about an hour south of Atlanta. In the fall, we would definitely hit up the high school football game on Friday night. During the day lunch at Honeywood Farms, shopping at the local boutiques, HIS Market and Reese & Rae, and even the antique shops, dinner at either Mangia on Main or the best local Mexican joint, Tres Amigos for a margarita. For a quick pick me up a iced espresso at The Corner Perk, or a loaded tea at Main Street Nutrition. A trip down to Dickey’s Farm in Musella for some homemade ice cream will always be in the itinerary.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I could definitely not have accomplished my goals without the support of my husband, Clay. He always supported all my crazy ideas. When I told him I wanted to go back to school to become an esthetician, he gave me the same look I gave him when he told me he wanted to run for our county coroner position but followed up with “I support you 100%” I also have to give my amazing teachers at Elaine Sterling Institute credit as well. They were not only knowledgeable but supported everything I wanted to do and helped guide me.

Website: https://waxandglowllc.square.site/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waxandglowesthetics/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550321512700

Image Credits
Cortney Hallada of Village Photography Group, Inc – Barnesville, GA

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