Meet Samantha Mackenzie

Sam (@sugrsugrottawa) is a seasoned esthetician from Ottawa, Ontario, with 16 years in the beauty industry and a heart for client care. After starting her career fresh out of high school, Samantha quickly found her passion in the treatment room — eventually launching her own business to gain freedom, flexibility, and deeper connections with her clients.

Her specialty? Brazilian sugaring — not just for the smooth results, but for the trust and confidence it builds in her clients. From riding the highs of entrepreneurship to managing the daily juggle of “wearing all the hats,” Samantha stays grounded in relationships, realness, and a results-driven routine. A proud Bushbalm Pro, she swears by Bermuda for its visible brightening power and says reviews and referrals are her ultimate business tools.

Samantha’s advice to new estheticians? Be reliable, be real, and don’t underestimate the power of authenticity.

What inspired you to become an esthetician?

Like so many girls right out of high school, I honestly had no idea what I wanted to do. I just knew I loved getting services done on myself, so I decided to give it a shot. I landed my first spa job before even graduating — and I’ve been obsessed ever since!

Why did you decide to start your own business?

I wanted more control over my schedule — and the chance to earn what I knew I was capable of. My time at the salon was incredibly valuable. It gave me the tools, experience, and behind-the-scenes knowledge I needed to succeed on my own. But eventually, I hit a plateau. I couldn’t grow any further within the company, and I was ready for more — creatively and financially.

Then COVID hit. And even though we had to close, my clients still reached out — just to check in, say they missed me, or make sure I was okay. That’s when it really clicked: it’s not about the salon or the space. It’s about the service provider. The relationships. The trust.

I realized they weren’t coming for the salon — they were coming for me. And I knew they’d support me on this next step.

What is your favorite service to perform and why?

Brazilian sugaring — hands down. I love creating a safe, judgment-free space for women to feel comfortable and confident. It's a vulnerable service, and I take pride in making it feel more like a conversation with a friend than something awkward or clinical.

Tell us about the biggest challenge you've faced while running your own business. How do you cope?

Wearing all the hats! Balancing client care with everything else — social media, admin, content creation — can be tough.

I’m good at my job because I genuinely care about my clients and the relationships we’ve built. That connection always comes first. If it’s between posting a reel or spending five extra minutes chatting with a client, I’ll always choose the client. Quality of service and human connection will always be my top priority.

What business goals have you set for yourself this year, and how do you plan to achieve them?

My biggest goal? Create more content — even if it’s not perfect. I’ve realized that showing up consistently is more important than getting everything just right.

I’m also working on launching a new service and currently wrapping up the training and model work. My plan is to introduce it before summer hits!

What is one business tool you can't live without?

Reviews! Whether it’s on Google, Fresha, or coming straight from client referrals — they’re everything. Word of mouth is the reason I’ve been able to grow the way I have. 

How and when did you discover Bushbalm? Why did you choose to carry us?

I discovered Bushbalm way back when it first launched — I saw an ad for the Discovery Pack and ordered it immediately. It came in those little amber Uline sample vials, and I was hooked. I ran to the nearest salon that carried it, bought my first full-size product (Sweet Escape), and the rest is history. It’s still one of my faves!

Which Bushbalm product is most popular at your salon? Why do you think that is?

Scrubs and oils are always top sellers — they’re the first step in any solid at-home routine. But Bermuda is the standout. Clients love the visible brightening, the results speak for themselves, and the scent? Total spa vibes. It’s an easy sell.

What do you enjoy most about the Bushbalm Pro community?

Getting to connect with other esties about the things only we understand — the weird, the wonderful, and everything in between. I love seeing other professionals thrive and sharing tips, tricks, and support. Bushbalm Pros really love this brand, and it’s amazing to bond over that shared passion.

What advice would you give to new estheticians entering the field?

Be consistent, be reliable, and most importantly — be yourself. Clients can feel when you're being real with them, and authenticity builds trust. That’s why they’ll come back. Skills matter, but showing up as you is what creates lasting client relationships.