Meet Tamara Baker, Owner of the Pretty Hideaway!![]() Hi! I guess this is the part where I tell you about myself...
I have over 25 years of experience in the salon and spa industry. Prior to Covid19 I practiced skincare while striving to expand my spa consulting business. Currently, I am offering Virtual Skincare Consultations and have opened an online store filled with the best skincare in the industry. I am a member of the Day Spa Association, International Medical Spa Association, NCEA (National Coalition of Estheticians, and a past member of the ASCP (Associated Skincare Professional) A few years ago, one of my close friends commented that she thinks I must have been born to work in the beauty industry. We both laughed about how I used to read this book my mom had on natural beauty remedies. I would blend up crazy concoctions in my kitchen that I would smear all over our faces as little girls! As long as I can remember I have loved beauty products and been interested in helping others look and feel their best. One of my fundamental beliefs is that no matter how much experience you have you can never stop learning. Continuing education is key and something that I feel is very important for everyone that works in the spa industry. My career path began with a love for makeup. At one time I served as a makeup director for the Bozeman Opera Association, and I did freelance makeup work for department stores and independent photographers. Over the years I worked for holistic spas and salons that put their total emphasis on health and well being. I also worked as a counter manager for Clinique, which exposed to me to the world of department store cosmetics. I have taken many classes and advanced training courses over the years and as a result of that I have worked with over 25 national and internationally known skincare lines. I have probably researched several hundred if not more. As the years progressed I worked in spa management and I started consulting. I helped create several businesses and start up ventures. My love of skincare grew and I became fascinated with the medical field. I began working with dermatologists and plastic surgeons which opened up a whole new world of skincare. My move to Florida offered me the opportunity to train for several companies as well as teach the paramedical skin care program for Florida College of Natural Health. While teaching there I taught abbreviated courses in anatomy, herbology, Ayurveda, aromatherapy, dermatology, oncology, and cosmetic chemistry. |
I am a past member of the Dermatological Nurses Association, and another organization formerly called the AAEA. These organizations provided me with invaluable knowledge that I still utilize today.
What's my skincare philosophy? I hate the sayings "all natural" or "chemical free" when referring to skincare because truly everything in life is made up of chemicals and rarely is anything 100% natural. There are certain key ingredients that I look for in cosmetics and there are certain ingredients that don't want to see in my skincare products. My main focus is finding products that actually work and make a difference in the skin. I still love aromatherapy and the benefits that you can reap both emotionally and psychologically. I love the ancient Ayurveda treatments and philosophies. While I would love to use products that are 100% natural or a 100% organic, I just can't get the same results from them that some pharmaceuticals and cosmeceutical products can give my clients. So I guess my philosophy falls somewhere in "the middle" ...I like to use "organic", or "natural" products with a perfect blend of cosmeceutical ingredients to turn back time and give skin the clarity and glow we once had at birth. In the past I focused on acne treatments because for years after having my children I struggled with breakouts. I am still passionate about helping others find their way to clear skin. Today at 51 years old, my focus on anti-aging treatments is extensive and there are more exciting products and ingredients than ever that promise new possibilities for renewed youth and vitality. If you want to know the "personal side" then read on... Skincare therapist and spa consultant by day...supermom by night... Ok, well I wish I was a "super" mom but I am a mom to a beautiful, free spirited 30- year- old named Paris, a serious but very funny, 17- year- old named Peyton and the baby of the family is our little Macey, my sweetness who is 16 years old. I just celebrated my 20 year anniversary with my husband Todd who I love more than pizza (it's an inside joke!) Seriously though, he has stuck by me through a lot and is where I find my strength! I love living in Florida and spend lots of time with my family at the beach, floating the clear beautiful springs, and going to the happiest place on earth. If you live here you'll know what I mean! I hope you enjoy shopping on The Pretty Hideaway store and look forward to hearing from you! Spa Wishes, Tamara Baker |