Central MA Up + Comer: NKD Worcester’s Kristie Lee Laskes
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Thursday, January 02, 2014
Susan Wagner, GoLocalWorcester Contributor
Kristie Lee Laskes, owner of Worcester's NKD Waxing, Lashes, and Makeup has found a career that blends work and pleasure.
Kristie Lee Laskes is the owner of
NKD Waxing, Lashes and Makeup in Worcester. Originally from Leominster, she currently lives in the Worcester area with her husband. A graduate of
Mount Wachusett Community College and
The Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics, Laskes is also a certified advanced
Xtreme Lash stylist. After working in the field for several years, she decided to follow her dream of owning her own business. In 2011, Laskes opened NKD Waxing, Lashes, and Makeup.
A Conversation With Kristie Lee Laskes
SW: Can you describe your career?
KL: I am a certified Esthetician and specialize in body waxing, makeup application, and eyelash application by Xtreme Lashes.
SW: What is the best thing about owning your own business?
KL: The best thing about my job is being able to interact with my clients throughout my entire day and seeing them leave happier then they came in. I just love that I can go to work and actually enjoy what I do.
SW: Can you describe a day in your life?
KL: Considering I own a busy, small business, I generally can be found working long hours in the studio or from home. Hopefully soon, I will be able to add something a little more exciting to a day in my life.
SW: Is this your dream job?
KL: My dream job is to do exactly what I’m doing, minus all the paperwork that comes with it of course!
SW: What is your favorite movie? Why?
KL: My favorite movie is Miss Congeniality because I love Sandra Bullock and I like how it reminds people not to judge a book by its cover.
SW: What music do you listen to?
KL: I enjoy listening to mostly pop or country. Upbeat music keeps me going during my long days.
SW: What is your favorite social networking site? Why?
KL: I would have to say my favorite networking site is Facebook because it allows me to be involved with so many friends, family and clients that I normally wouldn’t be as a close with. I love Pinterest too!
SW: What do you do away from your career?
KL: I enjoy staying active by going to the gym and I also enjoy spending as much time as I can with family and friends.
SW: Are you involved in the community? If so, how?
KL: I enjoy working with Root Rescue, a non-profit organization which donates beauty products and tools to those who are less fortunate. (The girl, Nicole, that started Root Rescue is now a junior in high school!) I have also been a guest speaker a few times at Worcester Technical High School and spoke about specific topics within my industry to those who may be interested in pursuing a career in my field.
SW: Who or what is the biggest influence in your life?
KL: The biggest influence in my life was the sudden passing of my mother. It really showed me that life is short and to enjoy life for all that it has to offer.
SW: What is a fun fact few people know about you?
KL: I was an Irish Step Dancer for 13 years, performing throughout Central Mass.
SW: Your favorite quote?
KL: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
SW: What do you think creates success?
KL: I think hard work and the ability to learn from your mistakes are a very important parts of being successful. I also think that networking within your community is important as well.
SW: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
KL: In 10 years I hope to have continued to grow my business and brand, so that when people think waxing, lashes, or makeup, they think NKD Worcester.
Central MA Up + Comer is a weekly profile of a member of the next generation as they are making their mark on the Central MA workforce and community. Join us every Thursday for a look at the careers and lifestyles of the local digital generation. If you have suggestions for a profile, please email [email protected].
Susan Wagner is the president of Susan Wagner PR. In this challenging economy, she has begun a new division to offer affordable start-up packages to new and emerging small businesses and non-profit organizations that include professional writing services, websites, collateral, marketing, social media, grassroots outreach and PR campaigns.
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