It is less than a year since Aljonae Julio set up her business, the La Belleza spa and salon, and she is glad she did.

Being in control of her destiny, and enjoying the salon’s peaceful location on Bridge Street, St George’s, are two of the immediate highlights.

When you factor in the opportunity to interact with appreciative customers and provide them with a feel-good service, it adds up to a winning combination for Ms Julio.

Before opening La Belleza, she had worked at a few other salons, but in the back of her mind she had always wanted to open her own business.

That chance came last summer when she seized the opportunity to open a salon in the former flower shop on Bridge Street.

Together with support from her mother, Angela Julio, she set to work refurbishing the unit, including installing some pedicure chairs and a manicure station.

“It took a few months. My mother and I worked on it,” said Ms Julio. Mother and daughter continue working together in the spa and salon, which offers a variety of services, including hair care and styling, braiding, nails, pedicures, eyebrows, and waxing.

“Things have been going well. It was busy during the summer and quieter in the winter, but it is picking up again,” said Ms Julio.

“I enjoy being around people and I like this location; and St George’s is a nice place to be.”

The salon’s colour scheme reflects her favourite colours, red and black. And La Belleza prides itself in creating a relaxing atmosphere for customers. “A revitalising experience to rejuvenate you,” states a promotional offering.

That certainly appears to be the case, judging by customers’ words of thanks posted on La Belleza’s Facebook page.

Ms Julio said the business has attracted a steady stream of clients, most of them locals, since opening in mid-July.

And reflecting on being her own boss, she said: “I’m very happy. There’s nothing better than working for yourself. I’m glad I did it.”

La Belleza has a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/La-Belleza-SpaSalon-1444487339180137/