Change Grabs Career Goals
November 11, 2003

For Lynn Shulman changing careers was both physically and emotionally necessary. Shulman, owner of Elixir Spa and Manicure Bar, worked in both public relations and marketing in Vancouver . A few years into her career she found she was still searching for that missing something. So she decided to make the move up to Toronto and work her way up the corperate ladder. However, not long after coming to Toronto , she again felt dissatisfied with her career. She knew she had to move on. Meanwhile, Shulman had a terrible reaction to a synthetic hair product. In fact, her doctor told her not to use any synthetic products again. This meant she was never going to be able to enjoy a spa, as she clould not find one that is all natural anywhere in the city.

Ready for a career change, Shulman deduced that if she was having this problem, there were likely amny otheres weith the same frustration. It was here that she found a niche in an industry that is booming. This realization turned into an extremely detailed business plan, a great deal of hard work, and ultimately, an original and successful spa. Shulman has this advice for those who are ready to follow there dreams – start with a detailed business proposal. Hers was a 40 pages and contained extensive research on the industry. She explains that not only does a business plan aid in getting a handle on the scope of your project, but it is extremely helpful when requesting funding from financial institutions. She followed the Business Development Bank of Canada 's suggested template closely, and recommends this for others. She also insists asking for 20 percent more funding than you anticipate needing, as unexpected expenses always arise.

Shulman also stresses the importance of being focused, driven, patient, and positive. The hours are long, and the road to success is challenging. It is through Shulman's positive attitude and extraneous work that Elixir Spa and Manicure Bar on King St. W. has become a total package spa, offering a relaxing, calm environment, with excellent content staff that make the experience memorable, and leave you wanting more.

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