When Armidale local Stephanie Colling opened Skin & Body Sculpt Studio earlier this year, she wanted to create more than just another beauty business, she wanted to build a space where people could relax, recharge, and rediscover their confidence.
“I run Skin & Body Sculpt Studio, where I offer a mix of body sculpting and skin treatments,” said Ms Colling. “Things like fat cavitation, RF skin tightening, vacuum therapy, relaxation facials, microdermabrasion facials, plus facial waxing and brow and lash services.
“It’s all about creating a space where people can relax and take a bit of time out for themselves.”
Having been in the beauty industry since 2019, Ms Colling took a short break to focus on family life before returning with a renewed sense of purpose.
“I started the studio in August 2025, but I’ve been in the beauty industry since 2019,” she said. “I just took a little break after having my kids before coming back to start working again.”
The inspiration to launch her own business came from a deeply personal place. After becoming a mum, Stephanie experienced the same feelings of self-doubt that many women know all too well.
“Honestly, it all came from a mix of passion and personal experience,” she said.
“After having my kids, I wasn’t feeling as confident as I used to, so I went and had some treatments with a lovely, supportive therapist… who I actually ended up training with later on! That experience really inspired me to create the same kind of positive and comfortable space for other women.”
For Ms Colling, her approach to beauty is about empowerment, not perfection.
“For me, it’s never about ‘fixing’ anything,” she said.
“It’s about embracing yourself as you are, feeling confident in your own skin, and using treatments to help with any little concerns that might be holding you back from feeling your best.”
When asked about her journey into business ownership, Ms Colling admits she’s taken a flexible, organic approach.
“I had a general idea of what I wanted to create but no formal plan in place,” she said.
“I’m just enjoying the process along the way and focusing on creating a welcoming space for clients to come and take time out for themselves. I also got some great advice from other business owners in town and that support has really helped me. Armidale has some really amazing people in it!”
That community support has been key to her success. Since opening, Skin & Body Sculpt Studio has steadily grown, with clients praising both the quality of treatments and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
“Things are going really well! I’ve loved meeting all the beautiful clients who’ve come in for treatments,” said Ms Colling.
“The only real challenge has been figuring out how to market what I do in a way that feels authentic — making sure people see it as something positive and confidence-building, not about changing who they are.”
Looking ahead, Ms Colling is excited to continue growing the studio and deepening her connections with the local community.
“Absolutely! I’m excited to keep growing and connecting with more people,” she said. “It’s been such a rewarding journey already, and I can’t wait to see where it goes.”
When asked what advice she’d give to others considering starting their own small business, Ms Colling’s response is simple but heartfelt.
“Just go for it! Even if it’s not perfect at first. You’ll learn so much as you go. Stay true to your values, ask for help when you need it, and remember why you started.”
“It’s such a good feeling to build something that makes a difference for others.”
In this series New England Times Investigates is unpacking some of the dynamics and forces driving our new business boom, and meeting some of the new business owners having a go. Read all the stories in this series here.
Advertising with New England Times is a cost effective and reliable way to reach New England locals who are interested and engaged. Find out more here.