Welcome to Chicago North Shore Moms weekly Meet a Mom series where we feature one local mama, what they’re up to both personally and professionally. But first we’d like to extend a very heartfelt thank you to our Meet a Mom sponsor, Lake Forest mom of three and owner of Gifford Law, a solo Estate Planning Law Firm. Mary, we appreciate your support of local moms in our North Shore communities!
This week’s Meet a Mom feature is the lovely mama of two littles, Spa Manager and Lead Aesthetician for the last 12 years at Fenner Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa, Tania Garay! Get to know Tania as she tells us how she’s coping with her work/family balance during the time of Covid. Plus learn about what first-timers can expect at a Medical Spa! Welcome, Tania!
Hi Tania! Please introduce yourself. Where are you from and where do you live now?
Hi! My name is Tania Garay. I was born in Illinois but lived in Southern California throughout most of elementary school years, then we moved back to Schaumburg, Illinois where I attended junior high and high school. My husband and I briefly lived in Old Town in the city, but once we started a family we moved to Palatine to be closer to family!
You’re a mama! How many kiddos do you have and how old are they?
Yep! I have two children. My son is four and a half and my daughter is three.
What’s your favorite thing about being a mom?
Watching them grow and change so much! Seeing their personalities develop. Also just sitting and staring at them in amazement that they are mine and came from me.
How do you cope with life during the pandemic?
Going on adventures in the forest preserves! Also, hitting a good drive through and eating in the trunk of our suv, while listing to music in the parking lot. The kiddos thought this was a blast! We will definitely carry on these traditions and memories after Covid.
What do you do for a little “me” time?
The Peloton app has been my saving grace!!! I was so use to having the gym as my outlet and when that was taken away I really struggled. The Peloton instructors are so motivating and inspiring, I actually started to enjoy running again, like I did back in my younger years.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I’m obsessed with anything related to criminal justice!! Before getting into the Aesthetic/Plastic Surgery industry I wanted to be a juvenile probation officer.
Tell us about your role at Fenner Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa.
I’m the Spa Manager and Lead Aesthetician going on 12 years now at Fenner Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa. I handle all the business/operational side of the spa along with treatments such as BBL, microneedling, facial/ chemical peels, dermaplane, Ultherapy, laser treatments , and non invasive body treatments.
Some are nervous about trying medical spa treatments. What do you want them to know?
Always be certain you are choosing a medical spa who is owned and operated by a reputable physician. Make sure your provider is licensed with plenty of experience. Medical Spas are able to offer more advanced, medical grade non invasive treatments with long lasting preventative results. If you’re nervous it’s best to start conservative with a medical grade facial or a Hydrafacial treatment.
What do “first timers” usually try?
Most clients start with a medical grade facial. The aesthetician is able to customize a facial suited to their skin type and get to know their skin before moving onto something more advanced. Medical grade facials use a higher concentration of chemical exfoliants along with enzymes. We make it results oriented but also very pampering!!
Is there a fee for an initial consultation?
All of our initial skin consultations are complimentary in the Medical Spa.
What are two of the most common questions people ask you?
Question: How do I get rid of my brown spots?
Answer: BBL laser. Uses broad band light to lift reds and browns out of the skin.
Question: How can I get rid of or improve my wrinkles?
Answer: Treatments that involve skin resurfacing such as : microneedling, Clear & Brilliant laser and Fraxel laser. Also Botox, Retinoids, and lots of SPF for prevention!!!
What is the most rewarding thing about your endeavor?
Transforming skin and seeing the results!!! Taking them from wearing or needing makeup to little or no makeup at all!!!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank for your success at Fenner Surgery and Medical Spa?
I’d have to say my clients. I learn so much from my clients from being a mom, to a wife and the balance of keeping my career. They have inspired me so much to keep doing what I’m doing. They tell me how lucky I am to have kept going with my career while having children.
What advice can you give other parents out there who are balancing work and home life during the pandemic?
Do the best you can. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Try to make the best of this time with your family. Also self care!!!! Give yourself some “me” time.
What’s on the horizon for you, Tania?
I’m going to continue to grow the business and help people feel good about themselves. Learn to speak Spanish and be involved in my kids school and activities as much as possible.