Photo by Debbie Smartt
When Kay Winslette of Serendipity Skincare & Cosmetics brought her aesthetician talents to Main Street nearly four years ago, she made the move to be part of the Franklin community. As co-owner of the popular day spa, she says she’s found that camaraderie and charm she’d heard about, in an area where her upscale business can fill a niche.
“I want to be an oasis for the local person and the traveler – whether you’re in downtown for the day or on the road,” she says. “This is the perfect place to get away for a bit.”
Winslette says the burgeoning success of Downtown Franklin has helped foster relations with a wide base of customers that extends beyond Middle Tennessee. She says many of her clients make Main Street a regular destination.
“We’re all about building relationships,” she says. “This past Saturday, I had two mother-daughter clients who always make us part of their special day.”
Winslette and her staff provide customized and results-orientated services. The boutique offers a wide variety of skincare, massage, nail and grooming packages for both men and women, including 14 different facial and body treatments.
“Our treatments are specialized to the client’s need, and all of our massage therapists are trained in different therapeutic modalities,” she says.
Though Kay and business partner Gayle Kennedy became owners of Serendipity three years ago, the shop has been a staple in downtown for more than six years. Winslette has been an aesthetician for 22 years, leaving her post at Private Edition of Nashville in 2008 to run Serendipity. She says the best part of her profession is the people.
“My relationship with my clients and my employees is my favorite aspect. I’m just so blessed,” she says. “Most people spell their work as a j-o-b, but I spell mine as j-o-y. It’s all positive!”
To ensure Serendipity customers feel the same about their experiences, Winslette says she has created “a soft, peaceful haven” that caters to luxury. The glossy pink walls, abundant greenery and soothing music are amenities she hopes reflect the service and high-quality products available for purchase.
The boutique’s spacious layout features gift items and cosmetics at the front of the store, followed by a more private area for services in the back. The massage and facial treatment rooms are in keeping with the rest of Serendipity’s shabby-chic style.
New to the shop are several consignment items, including an antique sideboard, hand-painted furniture, and vintage home décor. Winslette has also added pieces by local artists Nancy Higgins and Deanna Williams, and a gown by Prophetik clothing designer Jeff Garner.
“It’s about showcasing our community,” Winslette says.
To learn about Serendipity, visit the store at 405 Main Street, or call 615-794-7060.
This is part of a series on merchants in Downtown Franklin.
Photo by Debbie Smartt
Photo by Debbie Smartt