Posted: Sunday, August 22, 2010 10:09 pm

Green	Miller

Heather Chandler Kressaty is a trusted aesthetician with a clientele that has followed her for 14 years. Initially she began by giving facial treatments at Jamie’s in Belle Meade, then traveled with Bobbie Brown as a freelance makeup artist in the Southeast region, married a chemist, worked for a plastic surgeon in New York and returned to her roots to open The Skinbar and The Perch. 

Husband John Kressaty is a big part of both businesses. He consults with clients/customers and suggests the appropriate skin products.  More importantly, he can answer any questions or concerns regarding ingredients in a product.

Heather Chandler Kressaty, owner, The Skin Bar and The Perch

COMPANY DATA Company:  The Skinbar and the Perch Company Address: 117b Franklin Road, Brentwood Phone: 615-661-7546 Website: www.theskinbar.com  and www.the perchtn.com Year founded:  2007, The Skinbar; 2009, The Perch Number of employees:  13

“Having a cosmetic chemist in the house can be most helpful especially if you have allergies or reactive skin,” Heather says. “John is hands on in The Perch, managing employees, inventory and making sure everything is in place.”

Heather believes having good products and product knowledge is what it takes to position a company in the marketplace.  In addition, she attributes her current success to hiring employees that are positive, experienced and socially adept.

“Both businesses are very social and require staff members to interact and demonstrate.  There is an art to making coffee as well as a crepe and each is made in front of the customer,” she says.  “Skincare and cosmetics are much like savory delights … after feeling a product and experiencing results from a product, it can instantly change the way you feel about yourself.”

What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?

Never stop learning, find a positive to every negative, hands on is the key to a successful start!

What would you do now if you had to start over in your business career?

Make the kitchen space larger in the Perch. (Beyond that) I don’t think I would change a thing … I am passionate about good skin and a good crepe!

What is the greatest business challenge you have faced?

Hiring an employee that enjoys the vibe, understands our concept and wants to be part of the team …. Letting someone go isn’t easy, but it benefits both parties when it is right. 

What one business tip would you give to a Brentwood business entrepreneur?

Know your customer, know your product and know you will be putting in lots of hours.