As part of the Morning Lazziness series about empowering women who encourage and do incredible things with their ideas in society, I had the pleasure of interviewing Nancy Reagan.
Nancy Reagan is a celebrated diagnostic aesthetician, skincare expert, and spa owner known for inspiring both her team and clients to radiate beauty from within. As the founder of her third successful spa and creator of the innovative Skin Diva Labs skincare line, Nancy encourages women to embrace their timeless beauty with her empowering motto, “Keep glowing and going, no matter your age.”
Featured in prestigious outlets like The New York Times and People StyleWatch, and honored with numerous accolades, including Best Day Spa in North America, Nancy’s name is synonymous with credibility in the skincare industry. Her commitment to advanced training and over two decades of experience is reflected in her unique, results-driven approach to aesthetician care.
Her skincare expertise shines through Skin Diva Labs and the Bella Reina Spa’s exceptional aesthetician team, which has earned national recognition. With 26 years in the industry, Bella Reina remains a trusted destination for beauty, while Skin Diva Labs is quickly becoming the go-to choice for vegan skincare that delivers stunning results.
Originally from Wilmington, North Carolina, Nancy now resides in Boynton Beach, Florida, with her beloved Cavapoo, Henrietta, where she continues to pursue her mission of empowering women to discover their inner glow and embrace their ageless beauty.
Here’s what we found out about Nancy’s daily routine, followed by an exclusive Q+A.
Can you share the story behind your journey as an entrepreneur and what inspired you to start your own business?
I’d like to say I was inspired, but 30 years ago, I just wanted a workplace where the boss didn’t take all of my commissions, and the work environment was professional. Then, day spas were not on every corner, and it was new for women to “self-care” monthly, especially in the USA.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the business world, and how have you overcome them?
When I first started in the corporate world, I was hired as the token woman in a large consumer goods company. My first introduction to the General Manager was to keep my mouth closed, and if they needed a woman’s viewpoint, they would ask. I found it hilarious because all of the products were made for women. Humor and super hard work helped me overcome the bias. When you are willing to go extra with a smile, it goes a long way.
How do you balance your professional and personal life as an entrepreneur?
This is super hard for me because entrepreneurship is my life. I take time to work out, play with my Cavapoo, garden, and study investments. When you aim to empower others, it becomes a big part of your life.
What strategies have you found most effective for networking and building connections in your industry?
You know the players well when you have been in an industry for a very long time. This gives you an advantage in seeing the industry’s future and allows your network to grow exponentially. I love to learn and educate myself on the latest technology and science. This alone keeps me constantly connecting with some of the best in the skincare and spa industry.
How do you approach mentorship and seek guidance in your entrepreneurial journey?
It’s impossible to know everything, and I cannot grow if my mentorship processes are not in place. Part of mentoring is creating educational opportunities. My team is so overloaded by information sometimes that they look at me sideways, but the more they know, the more they can grow. And education in our field never stops. Being the best means having the best knowledge and being backed by the best team.
Can you talk about a specific setback or failure you’ve experienced in your business and how you bounced back from it?
There have been several, and they were devastating in every way. The worst was completely underestimating a business partner who was a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It cost me millions, as I lost everything, but the lessons I learned will never be repeated. The lesson and the bounceback is that everything you do and know is never a failure. It’s the foundation for your future success.
Another setback was not expecting to start over at 60, divorced, and have COVID hit. My bounceback strategy starts with gratitude. People can take things from you, and you can be blindsided, but they cannot take away your integrity, self-worth, and ability to pull up your jeans and make your way to a new start tomorrow. Nothing stops you but you. It helps that I’m overly optimistic, and I genuinely believe “Never quit” should have been my middle name.
In what ways do you prioritize diversity and inclusion within your company or startup?
Diversity is paramount to understanding that everyone has beliefs, and you should be respectful. We live in a fabulous, diverse, and rich heritage culture in South Florida. Embracing this diversity is vital to a fantastic team and the ability to meet your clients and customers on their terms.
How do you stay motivated and resilient during tough times in your business?
Gratitude is the only way, and faith. But I’m a big fan of guerilla marketing, so when times are tough, make your business shine through constant word of mouth.
What advice would you give to other aspiring women entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
Start with a Business Plan and niche your business. You will never be all things to all people. Also – don’t wait until everything is perfect – it will never be perfect.
What is one quote you live by that has guided you in your entrepreneurial journey?
Successful entrepreneurs are eternally optimistic.
Can you share a memorable success or milestone that you’ve achieved in your entrepreneurial career?
Realizing that during my spa and skincare career – I’ve generated over $25 million in revenue.
