My name is Michaela Reyes, and I’m the lead licensed esthetician at Haus of Hudson here in Bel Air. I’m a momma to a sweet little girl, and expecting a boy in January! When I’m not playing with my little one, I am usually in the studio beautifying my clients with clinical facial treatments and body waxing! I’ve been an esthetician for five years, and can truly say I found my passion. I don’t just give facials, I instill inner beauty and confidence in every person that walks in my treatment room! In my free time, I enjoy discovering new foods with my foodie husband, and taking our crazy-but lovable husky for walks.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I’ve grew up in Harford county with my parents and sister. Since meeting my husband, we currently reside in Baltimore county, but still do everything here! I’ve been married for 3 years to my wonderful husband, and we share a sweet 2 year old girl together, and are expecting baby #2 in January!
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
Before becoming an esthetician, I knew nothing about spas, or that being an esthetician was a career option! It wasn’t until my first job ever as a receptionist at a day spa where I learned the in’s and out’s of the industry, and that I really wanted to be hands on some day! I love that I’m able to connect with my clients on such a deep level, and build relationships with each person that I treat. I prepare my clients for the biggest moments of their lives whether it be their wedding day, graduation, etc. But I’m also there for them when they’re going through tough times, and I’m always a listening ear for them.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
My favorite breakfast spot is bagel works. I don’t even have to look at the menu, I always get the same thing! A California bagel with bacon on an everything bagel, and shreddies of course. For lunch I love stopping by the Grazing Room for a small charcuterie board, or a sandwich. And for dinner I love going to La Tolteca for some yummy Mexican food.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’ve lived in Harford country up until 2 years ago, I have since moved to Baltimore county, but still work in Bel Air. I have worked in Bel Air for almost 4 years now!
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Most interesting person I’ve met is Cindy Trostle who is an upcoming local artist. Mandalas are known for meditation, art therapy, and healing. I love the mandala dot art turtles she creates from concrete!
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I love a feel good movie! I like a good old fashion 2000’s romcom like “13 going on 30” or I’m also really into “Emily in Paris” on Netflix.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
My advice pertaining to my career would be it’s never too late to start something; Whether it be a skincare routine, or a career change. There’s no time like the present, so just start now!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I had a full circle moment the other day when I took my daughter to Amazing Glaze in the festival. I remember how much fun we would have going there as kids and creating our little artworks, and it’s great that I’m able to take my child there to experience the joy of art for herself.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would have lunch with my esthetician inspiration Savanna Boda aka The Dallas Esthetician. She’s made huge impacts in the esthetics community, and I would love to sit and pick her brain. I would probably take her where I take all my out of towners; which is Boxhill Pizzera for crab cakes!
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love how connected we are as a community. Between the amazing local events, and businesses Bel Air has to offer, you can’t help but feel a connection to your neighbors.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In the near future, I hope to continue growing in my esthetic career, and learning new techniques to bring on new services for my clients. I would also love to one day become a licensed massage therapist!
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m learning reiki and would love to incorporate it into my service menu some day!
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A slice of white chocolate raspberry cheesecake.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My daughter. Everything I do is for her.
Q: What community service or volunteer work do you participate in for your local community?
I attend my local women’s club meetings where we find ways to better our neighborhood.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
My safe space.