Fill out this form to email this article to a friend

Your name		Your email
Recipient email	You may enter up to 20 multiple email addresses, separated by commas.
Your message
Validation Code	Hear validation code
	Enter validation code

We were unable to send your email.

Click here to try again.

Create the job you want

By Ester Venouziou, Times Staff Writer
In print: Monday, September 1, 2008

Aesthetician Bianca Cypser opened Complexions Skin Care Spa and Boutique in Gulfport two years ago.
	[JAMES BORCHUCK | Times]

Story Tools E-mail this story Contact the editor Print this story Comment on this story Social Bookmarking Digg Facebook Stumbleupon Reddit Del.icio.us Newsvine

ADVERTISEMENT Loading Video...

Aesthetician Bianca Cypser spent about six years working at spas before opening her own: Complexions Skin Care Spa and Boutique in Gulfport. Two years later, she has a steady clientele and a new Web site (www. complexionskincare.com). We caught up with Cypser, 27, recently. Two years ago you had a good job, at the prestigious Don CeSar resort in St. Pete Beach. What made you venture out on your own?

I always knew I was going to have my own business. I really believe the mind is a powerful thing, and I knew this was going to happen. . . .

I found out that the Don spa was going corporate, and that's a totally different ball game. It's not the same intimate feel. And it's hard to find a job as an aesthetician, but I knew that's what I wanted to do, so my best choice was to open my own business. I wanted the freedom to do what I wanted to do. What has been the scariest or most difficult thing so far?

The unknown. You learn so much as you go along. All obstacles, you just have to go through them. And then good things happen.

Any regrets? Anything you wish you had done differently?

No, because everything — mistakes, everything — it all has helped me grow, personally and professionally.

Financially, is this working?

I'm able to pay my bills, and I am a lot happier. It's all worth it.

Bianca Cypser's tips for new entrepreneurs

• Don't compare yourself to anybody. It's not about competition. When you compete, you lose focus of your business and instead start focusing on what the others are doing.

• Before you get started, you should have at least six months of savings to pay bills. Of course, you have to be able to manage money well.

• When you do get started, tell everyone you know.

• Follow your heart, and be passionate. We all have endless opportunities.