What Is E-E-A-T?

Local Keywords

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 03:14:58 GMT

What They Are & How to Use Them (Without Making It Weird)

If you want clients in your area to find you, local keywords are the bridge between what they’re typing into Google and your website showing up. Let’s break this down in a way that actually makes sense for your business.

What Are Local Keywords?

Local keywords are search phrases that include:

A service
A location

For example:

“Brow wax in Colorado Springs”
“Massage therapist near me”
“Hair extensions Downtown COS”
“Bridal makeup artist Monument CO”

The location could be:

A city
A neighborhood
A region
A nickname (think “Twin Cities” or “SoCo”)
Even “near me”

When someone adds a location, Google knows they’re looking for something local and immediate .

Step 1: Think Like Your Client (Not Like Yourself)

You might say: “ I’m a licensed esthetician offering customized corrective skincare.” Your client might search:

“Acne facial Colorado Springs”
“Best facial near me”
“Hydrafacial Briargate”

They’re searching with a completely different mindset, which means they’re using entirely different language than you might expect.

What To Do:

List nearby:

Cities
Neighborhoods
Suburbs
Common abbreviations (Example: “COS” instead of “Colorado Springs”)

Ask real humans:

DM a few clients
Ask on Instagram Stories
Text a friend, “If you were searching for my service, what would you type?”

You’d be surprised how different the answers can be.

Step 2: Look at Other Local Businesses

Search your service + your city. Example:

“Nail tech Colorado Springs”
“Lash extensions Monument CO”
“Massage therapy Briargate”

Then look at:

Their website headlines
Their SEO titles (what shows up in Google)
Their page names
Their blog topics

You’re not copying. Rather, you’re studying the language that’s already working.

Step 3: Choose the Keyword That Actually Gets Searched

Here’s where people get tripped up. Just because something sounds right doesn’t mean people search it.

Real Example

A makeup artist might say: “New England Makeup Artist”. This sounds broad and impressive. But if no one is searching “New England makeup artist,” that keyword isn’t helping, right? Instead, people might be searching:

“Boston makeup artist”
“Providence bridal makeup”

People search for where they are , not the entire region. So lead with the city that gets the most search volume, then mention the surrounding areas in your copy.

Important: Don’t Optimize for Somewhere You Don’t Serve

If you’re in Colorado Springs, don’t optimize your entire website for Denver just because it gets more searches. Google compares:

Your website
Your Google Business Profile
Your business address

If your website and business listings don’t align, it confuses the algorithm and weakens trust, which is why consistency is critical.

Where To Put Local Keywords On Your Website

Now that you’ve picked a strong local keyword, here’s where it belongs.

1. SEO Title & Meta Description (Highest Priority)

This is what shows up in Google search results. Example:

“Brow & Wax Specialist in Colorado Springs | [Your Business Name]”
“Licensed Massage Therapist in Monument, CO”

This space carries significant weight in search results, so it should be used strategically and intentionally. Make sure you’re maximizing it with clear, relevant keywords rather than leaving it underutilized.

2. Your H1 or Main Headline

Your homepage headline should ideally include: Service + Location. Example:

“Luxury Facials in Colorado Springs”
“Custom Nail Art in Briargate”

If your main headline is central to your brand voice and you don’t want to change it, simply add a smaller location-based line above it. Strong branding and smart SEO can absolutely work together.

3. Subheadlines (H2s)

Example:

“Serving Colorado Springs & Surrounding Areas”
“Now Booking Clients in Monument and Black Forest”

4. Body Copy

When adding local keywords to your website, sprinkle them in naturally. Avoid awkward, repetitive phrasing like

"Colorado Springs facial Colorado Springs skincare Colorado Springs acne treatment"

Google is sophisticated enough to recognize keyword stuffing, and it doesn’t reward it. Instead, write in a way that sounds human and conversational, such as:

I work with clients across Colorado Springs, Monument, and Black Forest who are ready to invest in long-term skin health.

That approach feels authentic, reads smoothly, and still signals clearly to search engines where you serve.

5. Image Alt Text

Every image on your website includes alt text, which helps search engines understand what the image is about. Instead of leaving it as something generic like “IMG_4829.jpg”, update it with a clear, descriptive phrase such as:

“Hydrafacial treatment in Colorado Springs studio”
“Briargate nail studio interior”

Not only does this improve accessibility, but it also increases your chances of appearing in Google Images for local searches.

6. URL Slugs (Sometimes)

For example, you might structure a URL like: yoursite.com/colorado-springs-wax-specialist

However, if you plan to expand into additional cities in the future, be careful about locking a single location into every URL. Instead, consider these:

Keep service pages general
Add a separate “Locations” page
Create unique content for each location (if you serve multiple)

Thinking ahead about your growth strategy will save you from having to restructure your website later.

Advanced: Creating Local Content

Once your core website pages are optimized, you can start creating local content that feels more creative and community-focused.

Ideas for Beauty & Wellness Professionals:

“Best Coffee Shops to Work From in Colorado Springs”
“Bridal Prep Guide for Colorado Brides”
“Top Wedding Venues in Monument, CO”
“Where to Get the Best Spray Tan Before Prom in COS”

Content like this not only attracts local traffic, but also increases the chances that other local businesses will link back to you, which strengthens your local SEO through valuable backlinks.

One important note : if you create separate location pages, they must contain unique content. Simply swapping out city names on nearly identical pages can hurt your rankings due to duplicate content issues.

Don’t Forget Testimonials

Don’t overlook the power of testimonials when it comes to local SEO. Encourage your clients to mention your location in their reviews whenever possible. While a comment like “She’s amazing!” is wonderful, a review that says, “Best lash lift in Colorado Springs!” reinforces your local keywords and strengthens your visibility in local search results. Those small details make a measurable difference.

Local SEO Action Plan

Bi-Weekly

Respond to new reviews
Answer Google Q&A questions
Post updates or offers (reuse Instagram content)

Quarterly

Upload new photos
Confirm business info is accurate
Adjust for seasonal services

Annually

Review Google guidelines
Update your description if your services evolved

And when you update your Google profile, make sure you sync it with Bing Places .
It takes minutes and expands your visibility for free.

Your Homework

Here’s your next step. Choose one primary local keyword and update your SEO title and homepage headline to reflect it.

Then, weave that keyword naturally into your website copy so it reads smoothly and authentically.

Finally, brainstorm one local blog post or piece of content you could create this month to strengthen your local presence.

Local SEO doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It comes down to clarity, consistency, and thinking the way your clients think when they search. And the best part? Once it’s set up correctly, it works quietly in the background, attracting local clients who are already looking for exactly what you offer. That’s smart marketing working for you long term.

Local Link Building

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 01:27:50 GMT

Local Link Building, aka Getting Colorado Springs to Vouch for You)

If Local SEO is your digital reputation, local link building is how your city publicly says, “Yes, this pro is legit.”

Let’s break it down in a way that actually applies to you as a beauty professional, wellness provider, or studio renter.

What Are Local Links?

A local link is when another website in your area links to your website. There are two types you need to understand:

1) Local Backlinks

These are links from other local websites pointing to yours. Here are some examples:

A Colorado Springs magazine featuring your business
A local news article
A Chamber of Commerce listing
A partner salon or boutique linking to you

Think of backlinks as votes of confidence from other local websites.

2) Citations

Citations are listings that include your

Business Name
Address
Phone Number
Website

This is often called your NAP (Name, Address, Phone). These usually live in directories like:

Google Business Profile
Yelp
Facebook
Bing Places for Business
Better Business Bureau

Both backlinks and citations matter. Together, they strengthen your local authority.

Why This Matters (Especially for You)

Google doesn’t just rank businesses based on how pretty their website looks. It asks:

Does this business actually exist?
Is their information consistent?
Do other local websites mention them?
Are they active and relevant in this area?

Local links help Google determine:

Your authority
Your credibility
Your local relevance

When someone searches:

“nail tech near me”
“waxing in Colorado Springs”
“Colorado Springs PMU artist”

Google uses local links and citations to decide who shows up.

The Non-Negotiable Rule: Accuracy

This is critical. Your NAP must be identical everywhere . Not:

Suite 100 in one place
#100 in another
100 in another
Home address in one place and work address in another

Google may interpret those as different businesses. Inconsistent information can:

Hurt your rankings
Lower your authority
Make Google question your legitimacy

Before building new links, audit your existing listings and clean them up. Precision wins here.

Where Should You Be Listed?

Core Platforms (Start Here)

Google Business Profile
Yelp
Facebook
Bing Places for Business
Better Business Bureau

Industry-Specific Review Sites (Depending on Your Niche)

WeddingWire (Bridal artists, wedding hair & makeup)
The Knot (Wedding professionals)
Healthgrades (If applicable in medical aesthetics)

You don’t need to be everywhere. You need to be where your ideal clients already are.

5 Ways to Build Local Backlinks (That Actually Make Sense for You)

1) Local Directories

Join:

Local business associations
City business listings

These are strong authority signals.

2) Community Involvement

Sponsor:

A school event
A charity fundraiser
A local pop-up market

If your logo is on their website → that’s a backlink.

3) Partner with Other Local Businesses

Example ideas:

Lash artist + photographer referral partnership
Esthetician + wedding planner collaboration
Nail tech featured on a boutique’s site

When you collaborate with another local business, ask if they can mention and link to your business on their website. It’s a simple, professional way to build visibility and strengthen your local online presence.

4) Create Local Content

Write blog posts like:

“Best Bridal Makeup Looks in Colorado Springs”
“How to Prepare for Your First Brazilian Wax in Colorado Springs”
“Top Skincare Tips for Dry Colorado Climate”

Then:

Reach out to local bloggers
Tourism pages
Influencers

Offer them value worth linking to.

5) Reviews That Reinforce Keywords

When clients leave reviews, encourage them (naturally) to mention:

Your service
Your location
The type of appointment

For example, “I drove from Denver to Colorado Springs for my bridal makeup…” is the kind of detail helps Google connect your name to those keywords.

Review Platforms Beyond Google

While your Google Business Profile should always be your top priority, it’s also worth considering platforms like Yelp, Facebook, or the Better Business Bureau depending on where your clients naturally leave reviews. You don’t need to be active on every platform. Focus on the ones your audience actually uses. More listings aren’t necessarily better. Relevance and consistency will always have a stronger impact.

The Big Picture

Local link building isn’t random, but it’s strategic, consistent, and rooted in reputation. It’s one important piece of your larger SEO puzzle. When your digital footprint is accurate, consistent, and supported by local mentions across the web, search engines gain confidence in your business. The more trust you build, the more likely your business is to appear when local clients are searching for services like yours. That visibility is the ultimate goal.

Before moving on to Lesson Four, remember that local SEO isn’t about trying to be everywhere or doing everything at once. It’s about doing the right things correctly and maintaining consistency over time. Every accurate listing, partnership, and mention strengthens your digital authority, one step at a time.

Google Business Profile

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 02:48:13 GMT

Google Business Profile: Your Secret Weapon for Local Visibility

If you take one thing seriously in your local marketing, let it be this. " According to Moz, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the single largest factor influencing your local search ranking." Translation? If someone nearby searches:

“lash artist near me”
“esthetician in Colorado Springs”
“nail tech downtown”
or even your business name

Your Google Business Profile is what determines whether you show up, or disappear. Let’s make sure you shine.

What Is a Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile is a free tool from Google that allows you to manage how your business appears on:

Google Search
Google Maps
The “Local Pack” (the top 3 map results that show up first)

It used to be called Google My Business, so if you hear that name, it’s the same thing. When someone searches for a business like Luxe Cosmetic Studios , this is what shows up on the right-hand side of Google:

Why You Absolutely Need This

1. Boost Local Visibility

Your clients are local. Google prioritizes proximity. A fully optimized profile increases your chances of showing up on Maps.

2. Attract More Clients

Your profile displays:

Address
Phone number
Website
Reviews
Services
Photos

It answers questions before someone even visits your website.

3. Build Trust & Credibility

A complete, updated profile signals:

Professionalism
Legitimacy
Consistency

An incomplete profile signals the opposite.

4. Get Data & Insights

You’ll see:

How people found you
What keywords they searched
How many clicked
How many requested directions
How many called

This is powerful business intelligence, use it.

Step 1: Claim & Verify Your Profile

Go to: https://business.google.com/

⚠️ First, make sure you're logged into the correct Gmail. That email will own the profile. You can always add managers later.

You’ll Enter:

Business name
Category (choose the closest match)
Physical location (if clients visit you)
Contact info (phone, website)
Service area (if applicable)

Important: Physical Address Rules

You must verify a real physical location.
PO Boxes are not allowed.
Google verifies to prevent fraud.

Verification Methods (These Change Often)

You may be asked to verify via:

�� Video verification (very common now)
�� Phone or email
�� Postcard (less common)

How to Access Your Profile

Two easy ways:

Google your business name while logged in.
Go to: google.com/business

You can:

Edit info
Add photos
Post updates
Read/respond to reviews
View insights
Manage booking links

What Makes a Strong Profile?

Here’s your optimization checklist:

✅ Business description (with keywords)
✅ Correct category
✅ Updated contact info
✅ Services + pricing
✅ High-quality photos
✅ Social links (new feature!)
✅ Consistent posting
✅ Active review management

The more complete your profile, the more Google trusts you.

Reviews: Your Ranking Fuel

Let’s talk numbers. 92% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business. Reviews are not optional. They are conversion tools.

Why Reviews Matter

Improve local ranking
Increase trust
Drive more bookings
Influence buying decisions

When you search locally, who shows up first? Usually the business with:

⭐ More reviews
⭐ Higher ratings
⭐ Recent activity

That is not a coincidence.

How to Find Your Review Link

Click “Read Reviews”
Click “Get More Reviews”
Copy your unique review link

Add that link to:

Email templates
Text messages
Booking follow-ups
Your website
QR codes

Make it easy.

Smart Review Workflow (Steal This)

After each completed appointment:

Send review request email * .
Send one friendly follow-up reminder * 3-5 days after if no response.
Offer an incentive ** for leaving a review (not for a 5-star review).
Respond to every review.
Share great reviews on:

Instagram
Website
Newsletter
Highlights

What NOT To Do

❌ Don’t pay for reviews
❌ Don’t ask employees or random friends
❌ Don’t selectively ask only “happy” clients (that’s gatekeeping)

Google sees patterns. Don’t play games.

* Text Cathy for a copy of email templates.
** Incentives may include coffee gift card, discount on future services, referral bonus, custom gifts, charity donation, entry into a contest, free consultation or session, or access to exclusive content.

If You’re in a Regulated Industry (Medical, Therapy, etc.)

If you can’t directly ask for reviews:

Provide a visible review link
Place reminder cards in-office
Add a “Leave a Review” button on your website
Respond thoughtfully to all reviews
Ask professional colleagues (not friends) if your profile is empty

Make it easy without soliciting.

Hidden Features You Should Be Using

1. Posts

Promotions
Events
Blog links
Before/afters
Announcements

Remember, posts expire in about 7 days. Google loves fresh content.

2. Services & Products

Add descriptions + pricing. Make decision-making easier.

3. Q&A

Add your own FAQs and answer them. Clients are already thinking these questions.

4. Booking Button

Allow clients to book directly from your profile. Less friction = more appointments.

Ongoing Action Plan

Biweekly

Add new photos
Post updates
Check for new reviews

Quarterly

Update services
Refresh description
Review insights data

Annually

Audit everything
Confirm hours
Update branding assets

Consistency wins here.

Don’t Skip This: Import to Bing Places

While Google absolutely dominates search, Bing still captures a meaningful share of users, especially on Microsoft devices and default browsers. That means there are potential clients searching there who may never see you if you’re only on Google. The good news? You don’t have to rebuild anything. Simply go to Bing Places and import your existing Google Business Profile. It automatically copies your information over, I wish I knew this before. The entire process takes about two minutes, costs nothing, and instantly expands your visibility across another search engine. Minimal effort, additional exposure, which is an easy strategic win.

The Big Picture

Your Google Business Profile is not just a listing. It is:

Your credibility
Your local ranking engine
Your review hub
Your conversion tool
Your reputation center

If your profile is optimized and active, you will outperform competitors who ignore it. And the best part? Most small businesses barely touch this tool, which means you can.

Next Up

In Lesson Three, we’ll build on this and take your local visibility even further. Your move: Go claim, verify, and optimize your profile, and then let’s level up.

Local SEO: Why It Matters for Your Beauty Business

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:31:54 GMT

Why It Matters for Your Beauty Business

If you’re a hairstylist, esthetician, injector, lash artist, or med-spa provider, here’s the simple truth: Local SEO is how clients in your area find you before they ever DM you. When someone types:

“balayage near me”
“lip filler Colorado Springs”
“acne facial Briargate”
“best lash extensions downtown”

Google decides who shows up first. And that decision is heavily influenced by local SEO . Let’s break this down in a way that actually makes sense for your day-to-day business.

What Is Local SEO?

Local SEO = optimizing your online presence so nearby clients can find and choose you. It’s search engine optimization focused on:

Your city
Your neighborhood
Your service area

If you are in Colorado Springs, your goal isn’t to rank nationally. It’s to rank when someone within 5 miles is actively searching for your exact service.

Why This Is a Big Deal (Especially in Beauty industry)

Here are the numbers, and they’re powerful:

46% of all Google searches have local intent
72% of people who search locally visit a business within 5 miles
88% of mobile searches for local businesses result in a call or visit within 24 hours

Translation for you: When someone searches “hydrafacial near me,” they’re not researching for fun. They’re ready to book! That’s high-intent traffic, the best kind.

Is Local SEO for You?

Let’s make this personal.

1️⃣ If You Have a Physical Studio (Brick & Mortar)

If clients walk into your suite at Luxe Cosmetic Studios, then yes, this applies to you. Examples:

Hair stylists
Wax specialists
PMU artists
Injectors
Nail techs

If your income depends on someone physically showing up, local SEO is not optional. It's a necessity .

2️⃣ If You’re a Service-Based Beauty Provider

Even if you don’t rely on random walk-ins, you still depend on local clients. Think:

Med-spa providers
Bridal hair & makeup artists
Advanced estheticians
Skin specialists

You need clients within driving distance.

3️⃣ If You Also Sell Online

Maybe you:

Sell skincare
Offer virtual consults
Run digital education

Just because you can serve anyone doesn’t mean you should ignore your backyard. Local clients:

Refer friends
Leave Google reviews
Tag you on social
Build word-of-mouth momentum

And yes, meeting clients for consultations instead of just Zoom calls is nice too.

What We’ll Be Focusing On

In the next blogs, we’ll dive into three major pillars of local SEO:

Your Google Business Profile
Local Link Building
Local Keywords

Why is it worth our time in learning more about these?

1. Your Google Business Profile (Non-Negotiable)

When someone searches for services like:

“balayage near me”
“acne facial Colorado Springs”
“lip filler Briargate”

Your visibility depends heavily on your Google Business Profile. This is what powers:

Google Maps
The 3-pack listing at the top of search
Your star reviews
Click-to-call buttons
Directions
Hours
Photos

If your profile is incomplete or inaccurate, you are losing bookings. Period. We’ll soon cover:

How to optimize it
What photos to add
How to structure your description
Why categories matter

2. Local Link Building (Authority in Your City)

Google wants proof that you’re a real, trusted local business. Local link building helps establish:

Credibility
Community presence
Authority in your area

Examples:

Being featured in local blogs
Partnering with nearby businesses
Local chamber listings
Community sponsorships
Cross-promotions with other Luxe tenants

This signals to Google: “This business is part of this city.” And Google rewards that.

3. Local Keywords (The Words Your Clients Actually Type)

This is where strategy comes in. You don’t just want:

“facial”
“hair stylist”
“lip filler”

You want:

“acne facial Colorado Springs”
“curly hair specialist Briargate”
“natural lip filler Colorado Springs”
“lash extensions near Northgate”

We’ll cover:

How to find the right local keywords
Whether to target neighborhood vs city
How competitive your market is
Where to place those keywords on your:
Website
Service pages
Blog posts
Google profile

The Big Picture

Local SEO isn’t about gaming Google. It’s about making sure that when someone nearby is actively looking for what you do. You’re the one they find first.

You already invested in:

Your training
Your licensing
Your suite
Your branding
Your tools

Now it’s about making sure the right clients can discover you. Because the best service provider in town doesn’t win. The one who gets found does.

Ready to dive into Lesson Two ?

Why AI (and Google) Needs to Trust You Before It Sends You Clients

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:22:07 GMT

Understanding E-E-A-T and How It Impacts Your Beauty Business

When we talk about SEO, structured data, and optimizing your website, it’s easy to think we’re only talking to robots. Yes, structured data helps search engines understand your site. But today, we’re talking about something bigger. We’re talking about trust .

In today’s AI-driven search world, platforms like Google, Gemini, and ChatGPT don’t just look at keywords. They evaluate whether your business is credible enough to reference. That’s where E-E-A-T comes in.

E-E-A-T stands for:

Experience

Expertise

Authoritativeness

Trust

It’s Google’s framework for deciding whether your content — and your brand — can be trusted. This doesn’t just impact website rankings. It directly affects how your Google Business Profile appears in search and map results.

This is no longer just about ranking higher. It’s about becoming the kind of business that search engines and AI systems are confident recommending and surfacing to potential clients.

The stronger your digital credibility, especially through your Google Business Profile, reviews, photos, and service descriptions, the more likely search engines are to say: “Yes, this is a real professional. This is a trusted source.”

What This Means in Real Life for You

Let’s make this practical. If you want your business to send strong trust signals online, here’s what matters:

1. A Detailed About Page (Your Digital Identity)

Who are you? Surprisingly, many business websites do not clearly state:

Who the founder is
Who the team members are
What their qualifications are
What makes them uniquely skilled

This matters because clients, and AI, want to see the humans behind the brand. Your About page should clearly communicate:

Your professional background
Your certifications or training
Your years of experience
Your specialty focus
Why you do what you do

If someone lands on your site and can’t immediately tell who you are, that weakens trust.

2. Testimonials, Reviews & Real Client Stories

Experience isn’t just what you say but is what others confirm. Strong trust signals include:

Google Business Profile reviews
Reviews on third-party platforms
Before-and-after case studies
Client success stories
Measurable results

This is proof. And remember, when your Google Business Profile and third-party reviews are properly connected to your website (through structured data and organizational signals), that credibility compounds. You are building digital receipts.

3. Backlinks & Media Mentions

Have you:

Been featured in an article?
Appeared on a podcast?
Won an award?
Been listed in a directory?
Collaborated with reputable brands?

These are authority signals. They tell search engines:

“Other credible sources recognize this professional.”

Quality backlinks matter far more than quantity. One mention from a respected local publication is stronger than ten random links.

4. Case Studies & Portfolios

Show your work. Don’t just post a photo. Tell the story:

What was the client’s concern?
What was your approach?
What products or methods did you use?
What was the outcome?

This demonstrates both experience and expertise . When you consistently publish real examples of your work, you are building a documented track record of authority.

Your Action Plan

If bookings are slower right now, this is the perfect time to strengthen your digital foundation. Here’s your to-do list:

✔ Update your About page

Add depth. Add credentials. Add your story.

✔ Optimize your Contact page

Make sure it’s clear, complete, and professional.

✔ Request quality reviews

Focus on thoughtful, detailed feedback from real clients.

✔ Build credible backlinks

Look for local collaborations, directories, podcasts, or community features.

✔ Publish case studies or portfolio breakdowns

Prove your expertise consistently.

You May Already Be Doing This

If you’re reading this thinking, “I’ve already done most of this.” Good, that means you’re on the right track. Everything we’ve discussed in structured data, Google Business optimization, backlinks, and blogging feeds directly into E-E-A-T. This isn’t about starting over. It’s confirmation that what you’re building is compounding.

The Bigger Picture

At the end of the day, E-E-A-T is simple. It’s about proving that:

You’re real.
You’re qualified.
You’re credible.
You’re trustworthy.

The more signals you send that establish expertise in your niche, the more likely search engines, and AI tools, will feature your business. And that trust builds over time quietly, consistently and compounding in the background.

Final Reminder

Don’t overthink it. Focus on:

Quality in the content you create
Clarity in how your website is structured
Trustworthiness in how you present your experience

Digital trust is an asset. And you’re building it piece by piece.

Fun Local Events

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 02:21:49 GMT

Fun Local Events

Where Fun Events Meets Meaningful Business Connections

I’m always on the lookout for local events that blend fun with opportunity, places where you can discover new products, meet interesting people, and stumble into collaborations without feeling like you’re “working.”

These events aren’t just about shopping or showing up with a business agenda. They’re about connection, curiosity, and inspiration. Below is a list of local events I recommend and may attend when my schedule allows.

Featured This Month

(Updated monthly)

Survivors Day

When? Sunday, June 7

8:30 am - 11 am

Where?

Bear Creek R egional Park East
2002 Creek Crossing St - Pavilions #7 and #8

Colorado Springs, CO 80905

What? Colorado Cancer Coalition is hosting this special outdoor event for a meaningful day of connection, support, and celebration honoring survivors and caregivers of all ages.

Save The Dates Events

Community, conversation, and a reason to get out of the house ~ save these dates.

May 29 - 31 ~ Vintage Market Days of Colorado Springs

This is an upscale vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. Vintage Market Days® events are so much more than a flea market. Each Vintage Market Days® event is a unique opportunity for vendors to display their talents and passions in creative venues.

September 12th ~ Vendor's Market

Events to Watch For

These upcoming events don’t have dates just yet, but they’re worth keeping on your radar.

Women's Expo with A Cause - Fall 2026

Join Me

I especially enjoy attending non-holiday events. Not because holidays are bad, but because these tend to be less hectic, less competitive, and far more relaxed. There’s usually less pressure to sell before a season ends, which creates space for real conversations and easier connections. Another bonus? The products, services, and collaborations you discover aren’t tied to a specific time of year. That makes the relationships you build feel more sustainable and relevant year-round. Going solo is always an option, but I’ve found that attending as a group is both more fun and more productive. Veronica from Studio #6 is part of ours, and we’re always open to welcoming more people. If you’re interested in joining us at a future event, feel free to text me and let me know. The more the merrier, and the conversations tend to be better, too. If you end up going on your own or with someone else, I’ll still be happy to see you there. ��

Business Events & Workshops

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:20:16 GMT

Business Events & Workshops

Opportunity for Growth & Education

This page is a curated collection of business events and workshops designed to support your growth, professionally and personally. Whether you’re looking to sharpen a specific skill, expand your network, or simply stay inspired, these opportunities are meant to help you move forward without the overwhelm.

You don’t need to attend everything.

Think of this as a menu , not a checklist.

Online Events (Learn From Anywhere)

Perfect for busy weeks, quiet evenings, or when you want to learn without leaving your studio.

Webinars & Masterclasses

Topics often include marketing, branding, pricing, client retention, taxes, and time management.

Virtual Industry Conferences

Focused on beauty, wellness, small business, and entrepreneurship.

Live Online Workshops

Interactive sessions with Q&A, led by experienced educators.

On-Demand Trainings

Learn at your own pace, especially helpful when life (and clients) get busy.

Tip: Bookmark this page and check back often. I’ll continue updating it as new opportunities come up.

When? June 22nd, 10:30 am MST

Where? Online

What? Most salon and spa owners know they should follow up more consistently, but between clients, team management, and everything else on your plate, it often gets pushed aside. The probelm is that weak follow-up quietly impacts rebooking, retention, referrals, and revenue. This webinar, Where You're Losing Money, shows the owners a few simple Ai shortcuts that can help automate and simplify follow-up without needing to be "techy."

Local Events (Connect Close to Home)

These events offer something online learning can’t always provide: real-time, face-to-face connection.

Networking Mixers

Meet fellow beauty professionals, entrepreneurs, and potential collaborators.

Pop-Ups & Markets

Great for visibility, testing services or products, and building brand awareness.

Workshops & Panels

In-person education with immediate connection, conversation, and community.

Featured This Month

(Updated monthly)

Colorado Self Care Expo

When? July 19-20, 2026

Where? Towne Carriage House

102 S Victoria Ave, Pueblo, CO 81003

What? The expo is a two-day wellness event, bringing together a wide range of self-care professionals and services from across Colorado. Open to both the public and industry professionals, the expo offers an opportunity to connect with experts, explore new practices and products, and discover tools that support holistic well-being. Attendees can expect a diverse mix of exhibitors, including estheticians and med spas, massage and Reiki providers, hair, makeup, and nail professionals, and specialists focused on mindfulness, stress reduction, personal growth, and everyday self-care.

Save The Dates

TBA

Bringing It All Together

Business events and workshops aren’t about collecting business cards or pitching yourself to strangers. They’re about learning, visibility, and being part of conversations that move our industry forward.

You don’t need to attend everything. One event at a time is enough. Show up curious, open, and authentic, and let connections build naturally. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s presence.

And if more formal business events feel like a stretch some days, that’s okay. Community can also grow in lighter, more relaxed spaces, which brings us to the fun side of local connection.

�� Next: events where you can show up as yourself, enjoy the moment, and still build meaningful relationships along the way.

Why Attend Events

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:51:26 GMT

Why Attend Events

Building your business is ultimately about people. Local events create space for real conversations, ones that can turn into clients, collaborations, or connections you didn’t even know you needed. When you show up with curiosity instead of pressure, opportunities tend to follow.

Local Vendors = Potential Clients (and Collaborators)

Local vendors aren’t just there to sell, they’re often business owners just like you. Some may become clients. Others might become collaborators. The goal isn’t to pitch yourself with jazz hands. It’s to connect.

Walk the booths. Introduce yourself like a real human (not a walking brochure). Ask about what they do and how it fits into their world. Sometimes you’ll discover services or products that support your business, or your personal life. Either way, genuine interest always lands better than a hard sell.

Attend as a Buyer, Connect as a Partner

One mindset shift makes events far more enjoyable: walk in as a buyer, not a promoter.

This instantly removes pressure. You get to explore, learn, and enjoy the event without feeling like you need to “perform.” Bring business cards just in case someone asks and use your work email when filling out signup sheets. If they follow up, they’ll already know your business and may look you up on their own.

That’s often how collaborations start, wholesale products for your studio, co-hosted pop-ups, or mini workshops that benefit everyone involved.

How I Turn Event Visits into Real Connections

I usually start with the registration table or greeter and ask:

“I haven’t been here before, what do you suggest I do first and last?”

That advice is often gold.

From there, I check the event map or vendor list and circle booths I’m most interested in. I still like to walk the whole floor, but staying focused helps uncover unexpected opportunities.

That’s exactly how I met a skincare vendor who later became a potential renter. We were talking about only the skincare products she sells, nothing about Luxe. She asked for my card so she could send product information. Later that evening, she looked me up, discovered Luxe on her own, and booked a tour. I had no idea she was even looking for a studio. The connection happened naturally because the conversation was genuine.

Starting Conversations (Without the Awkwardness)

When I approach a booth, I would start by setting a little context so the interaction feels comfortable right away. For me, that means letting vendors know that I'm deaf so they understand why I read lips, and joking that I’m not ignoring them if my eyes wander across the display while they're asking me a question.

Then I keep it simple:

“I’m not familiar with this, can you tell me more?”

“Oh, I like this. What’s it made of?”

“Is this pet-safe?”

Small questions lead to relaxed conversations. No pressure. No pitch. Just connection.

Ending Conversations Smoothly

When it’s time to move on, I use friendly exit lines that keep the door open:

“I may need this at work, but I’m not ready to buy today, do you have a card or Instagram?”

“My friend might love this.”

I’ll often follow them on social media right then and say, “Just followed you, thank you! I’d love to stay in touch.”

Sometimes they ask what I do for work, which naturally leads to questions about my salon or even referrals (“Do you know a stylist who works with fine hair?”). Other times it leads to collaboration ideas, or the occasional freebie I can share with tenants or prospects.

Snap Now, Remember Later

I always take photos at events: booths I loved, products that stood out, even the occasional adorable dog. These photos help jog my memory later, spark ideas for Luxe, and give me a visual reference for follow-ups or future collaborations.

It’s documentation without pressure, and inspiration without overthinking.

Follow Up (This Is Where the Magic Sticks)

After the event, I sit down with coffee and go through everything I collected: cards, flyers, notes, photos.

I do the following:

- Look them up online

- Follow their social media

- Like or comment on a few posts

If I really enjoyed something, I might share it to my Story with a personal note and tag them. Businesses appreciate thoughtful shoutouts and often follow back.

For those not active on social media, a short email goes a long way: mention meeting them, reference something specific, ask one genuine question, and include your contact info. It’s simple, memorable, and relationship-focused.

Always Carry Extra Cards (Even If They’re Not Yours)

Here’s a fun but practical tip: I sometimes run out of my own business cards, and it hasn’t stopped me yet.

My sparkly hair gets compliments, so I keep a stack of Vanessa’s cards in my purse. After one event, I handed out every single one. ��

Carrying cards from fellow Luxe tenants means you never miss a connection, even on busy days, and you get to support each other at the same time.

Bring a Buddy

Events are easier (and more fun) with a friend. A buddy makes walking booths less awkward, helps you stay focused, and makes photos feel natural instead of forced.

Afterwards, you can debrief over food, exchange notes, or schedule a follow-up coffee if you’re exhausted. That post-event touchpoint helps vendors remember you while the interaction is still fresh.

It’s Not About Working the Room

Attending events doesn’t mean turning yourself into a walking elevator pitch. It’s about showing up curious, relaxed, and open to conversation. Some connections turn into clients. Others turn into collaborations. And some simply remind you that you’re part of a larger local community.

You don’t need to attend everything, just the right things, at the right pace.

If you’re wondering where to start, I’ve put together a list of business-focused events and workshops that are worth checking out. ⬇️

Connections That Grow

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:51:24 GMT

Connections That Grow

How a Real Community Took Shape at Luxe Cosmetic Studios

A behind-the-scenes look at the small, intentional choices that help our tenants grow loyal clients, support one another, and feel genuinely connected at Luxe.

It Starts With the Right Goal

For most of us, growth sounds like more clients. And yes, that matters. But what really moves the needle is something deeper: loyalty.

The kind of clients who rebook without reminders, trust your recommendations, and wouldn’t think twice about sending their friends your way. That kind of growth doesn’t come from chasing numbers, it comes from experiences.

At some point, I stopped asking, “What’s in it for me?” and started asking, “How can I make this unforgettable for them?” That shift changed everything.

The basics matter: a warm greeting, feeling heard, a space that feels calm and welcoming. But consistency is what turns those moments into trust. When clients know exactly how it feels to be in your care, every single time, that’s when relationships deepen.

How Referrals Happen (Without Ever Asking)

This is one of my favorite parts, because it feels natural, and it works. Offer something they can’t get elsewhere: you actually remembering them.

People don’t refer businesses. They refer how a business made them feel.

One simple habit that makes a huge difference: keeping personal notes. When a client casually mentions something meaningful, an anniversary, a big event, a stressful season, write it down. Then set yourself a reminder.

Example:

Client: Jill

Note: Wedding anniversary

Action: Set a phone reminder two weeks before

When that reminder pops up, you can do something small but thoughtful, maybe a complimentary add-on, a handwritten note, or a simple check-in.

If she doesn’t already have an appointment scheduled, you might reach out like this:

“Hi Jill! I was thinking of you, your wedding anniversary is coming up, and I’d love to gift you a little spa upgrade at your next facial. Would you like to come in next Friday morning?”

That’s not a sales pitch. That’s care. And people rarely say no to feeling appreciated.

Before appointments, a quick glance at your notes goes a long way. Remembering how her daughter’s ballet recital went or asking about something she shared months ago sends a clear message: you matter here. That’s VIP energy, no price increase required.

Clients who feel seen talk. They mention you to friends, family, coworkers, and strangers who compliment their skin. Referrals start happening naturally.

We’ve Seen This Happen at Luxe

This isn’t theory, we’ve watched it unfold inside these walls.

One hairstylist alone sent us five tours. She personally called Emma at Studio #15 and insisted she come check out Luxe. During Emma’s tour, she called her friends with the same enthusiasm. We gained 2 more tours.

After ongoing encouragement from Vanessa at Studio #5 for months, Emmarose from Studio #9 decided to tour, and she signed shortly after.

Lizzie at Studio #4 encouraged McKenna from Studio #2 to consider renting at Luxe, sharing how much support and community she’d experience here.

Jacky from Studio #6 may no longer be with us, but she recommended Meredith at Studio #10 to tour Luxe, and signed soon after.

They didn’t just fall in love with the space. They loved the atmosphere, the relationships, and the way it felt to be part of something supportive.

That same principle applies to your clients. When people genuinely love how they’re treated, they don’t just come back, they bring others with them.

Looking Beyond Your Studio

Community doesn’t stop at your door.

From increasing visibility to building real trust, showing up locally can open doors that social media alone can’t. Sometimes, the next great connection happens face-to-face.

�� Next up: why attending local events can be one of the simplest ways to grow, without feeling salesy or awkward.