Garrett and Sandra Vargas, both employees at Microsoft, ventured into the entrepreneurial world by opening a skincare business in Kirkland, Wash. Garrett Vargas, in particular, had a desire to remain involved in running a business despite his work at Microsoft as an engineering manager. He was attracted to the health and wellness industry due to its growth and resilience. They became franchisees of Heyday, a skincare company with 40 locations across the U.S., with their first location opening in Kirkland.
The Vargas looked at various franchise options before deciding on Heyday, attracted by the startup vibe and employee development focus of the company. Heyday differentiates itself by having estheticians who are employees of the company, receiving ongoing training and development. The beauty market is experiencing growth, with the skincare industry expected to surpass $186 billion this year. Heyday launched its franchise model in 2018 and has raised significant funding in recent years to support expansion.
Garrett Vargas, in a Q&A interview, discussed the similarities and differences between running LegUp and being a franchisee with Heyday. While he enjoys the entrepreneurial aspects of building a company from the ground up, the intensity is not the same as his previous startup experience. Heyday utilizes technology to track the customer experience, personalizing services to meet individual preferences. The business model includes a membership option that allows customers to receive monthly facials at a discount.
One of the key selling points of Heyday is its personalized facial experience, where customers do not have to choose from preset options. Instead, estheticians assess the client’s skin and discuss skincare options based on individual needs. Vargas highlighted the willingness of customers to prioritize self-care amidst socio-economic turmoil, leading to a bounce-back in revenue for the spa industry post-pandemic. With a focus on customer experience and employee development, Heyday aims to continue its growth in the skincare market.
The Vargas’ franchise model allows them to have operational responsibilities including staffing and financial tracking, while the franchisor provides products and marketing materials. The success of Heyday’s franchise model has been attributed to its emphasis on employee development, personalization, and maximizing customer experience using technology. As the skincare market continues to expand and consumer interest in wellness rises, entrepreneurs like the Vargas see an opportunity for growth and success in the industry. Garret Vargas hopes that through his venture with Heyday, he can make a positive impact on people’s lives by promoting self-care and wellness.
