“Beauty is not just skin deep.

It’s about feeling good in your

own skin, and helping others

feel the same.”

I will make a confession and let you know that I regularly see the woman in this month’s feature - once a month in fact. And I have known her, in a professional sense, for nearly twenty years. Every time we meet, we talk and laugh and I leave her presence feeling lighter, nurtured and glowing. So doing a casual branding session with her and chatting all things business was not difficult at all!

We talked about many things but a lovely anecdote which captured my imagination was her story of the time her Auntie took her to get a pedicure at the very swish Chez Diane salon. She would have only been in Grade 4 at the time but in that moment, she realised that she was more interested in the process of the pedicure than the actual outcome.

And so, from that story, comes the heart of the introduction for this month’s blog; vocation and specifically, the idea that you have an intrinsic understanding of who you are and what career you want to have for your life. It’s a state of knowing what type of work you feel you are suited to doing (divine intervention if you are called to a religious life) but more importantly, it fills you with a higher purpose and motivates you toward your goals.

Welcome to The Bigger Picture; a blog that is all about building NETWORK and CONNECTION. Each month, I feature a woman in small business within my community with the sole purpose of showing support, building solidarity and sharing stories of passion.

I am so fortunate to be surrounded by incredible small businesses in the South West run by mums in their spare rooms or out in their gardens and they each have a unique story to be told; a BIGGER PICTURE to be discovered.

I am someone who, from a very early age, had a vocation. There was never any doubt in my mind that I was going to be a teacher. I kid you not, complete strangers just look at me and go, “you’re a teacher aren’t you?!” Obviously there must be a physical ‘look’ or tone of voice that all teachers share! Whatever it is, it must radiate off me! There may have been a moment when I flirted with the idea of being an opera singer, but needing to pay bills and rent soon put a stop to that! Teaching was it for me and as a consequence, I was very good at it. My work gave my life meaning and purpose and a sense of belonging.

My feature for June is another such person who knew from an early age where her interests lay. A self-confessed skin nerd and a bright, enthusiastic small business woman, I’m thrilled to be able to introduce you to…

Cecelia Sharples

Her. Skin Lounge

Tell us about your business and what services you offer.

I’m Cecelia, a Dermal Therapist and the owner of @herskinlounge. I have nearly 20 years experience in the Beauty Industry and qualifications in the Health Sciences with majors in Dermal Sciences and Clinical Aesthetics. Her. Skin Lounge is a space where women can come to feel truly cared for—where they can slow down, feel safe, and take a moment just for themselves. I offer advanced skin treatments, customised facials, and results-focused therapies that are all tailored to each woman’s unique skin and journey. But at the heart of it all, my focus is on helping women feel confident, empowered, and completely at ease in their own skin.

Is there a story behind the name you chose?

Yes, the name came from a place of intention and heart. I wanted something that felt soft, feminine, and safe... a name that reflected the experience I hope every woman feels when she walks through the door. It’s not just a treatment room... it’s a sanctuary. A space where you can breathe, let go, and feel nurtured. I wanted the name to capture that feeling of warmth and care. I wanted the name to reflect the feeling of a deep breath.

Where does your inspiration come from?

The women I meet every day inspire me endlessly. Each story, each journey, each moment of vulnerability and strength... it’s such a privilege to be part of that. I’m also inspired by the constant growth in the world of skin health. There's always something new to learn, and I love being able to bring that knowledge back to my clients. But above all, it’s the joy of helping someone feel beautiful and confident in their own skin that inspires me most.

What is your favourite part of your job?

It’s the connection, always. I love creating a space where women feel safe, heard, and looked after... where they can come exactly as they are and leave feeling lighter, brighter, and more confident. Seeing someone glow, not just on the outside but from within... that’s the most rewarding part of what I do.

What do you offer your clients that no one else does?

I offer a truly personal experience... one that’s grounded in care, trust, and deep respect for each woman’s unique skin and story. There’s no rush, no pressure... just honest guidance, gentle hands, and thoughtful treatments designed around you... My space is private, calm, and nurturing, and I pour my heart into creating an experience where every woman feels empowered, cared for, and completely herself.

What’s the biggest thing you’ve learnt since starting your business?

That the most powerful thing you can offer someone is a feeling of being seen, heard, and valued. Starting a business takes courage, but when you stay close to your ‘why’ and lead with love, everything begins to flow. My advice to anyone starting something new? Trust your heart. Build something that feels good to you. The energy you pour into others, the kindness, the care, the intention, it all comes back in the most beautiful ways.

Moving into your vocation takes courage. Your road to success is unique to you – there’s definitely no one-size-fits-all road map in this life. But understanding what your vocation is, means you’ve already taken a giant first step. All that’s left is to ride this contagious passion and energy as you pursue something you care about.

Edwina xx

If you are wanting to tailor a skin program personal to your needs, or simply give yourself a well-deserved pamper, give Cecelia a follow (and your support) on her social media page…

Instagram: @herskinlounge

Website: www.herskinlounge.com.au