Get to know spa industry veteran Nina Curtis, owner of The Nile Institute, Principal of Curtis Communications, MBA, Master Esthetician and much more!
How many years have you been involved in the spa/hospitality industry?
Over 25 years and growing..., YAY!
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
My mother sold Mary Kay when I was younger and the seed was planted then. I watched her inspire women and bring out their true beauty. I thought, if I could make women feel and look beautiful, I could have anything in the world. My high school had a regional occupation program (ROP) and I signed up for the cosmetology program and the rest is history. I've never looked back and it's been such a wonderful journey at each turn. I've worked with great people, great companies and I continue to grow. Most recently, I've been certified as a Certified Natural Health Professional (CNHP) and a Certified Health and Wellness Coach. I am currently studying for my naturopathy degree, with concentrations in herbology and iridology.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Wow, that's a hard one, as I have been so many wonderful places, hmmm, okay, Paris wins! Paris is just magical for me as I have had so many great experiences there that people would not believe. It's simply magical.
If you could have any profession in the world, other than what you do now, what would you be?
I would definitely work with animals in some capacity. I had two Akitas for thirteen and fifteen years, respectively and they taught me so much. Maybe I would open a healing center for animals and offer flower essences along with color light and hydro therapy, among other things.
What is your motto or concept that you live by?
Treat others as I want to be treated and better. We never know how the kindness we extend to others can have a huge impact on their lives and ours.
What is your most treasured possession?
I don't treasure possessions. 'Things' can be taken away too easily. I am grateful for my family, friends and Life.
What’s your go-to spa treatment?
The Aroma Massage and Cucumber Pack at the Hankook Sauna & Spa. It's magical! It's my get away and 'think tank'. I come up with the most wonderful ideas when I am there.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Receiving the Pepperdine University "Distinguished Alumni" Award in 2002. Prior to every graduation, Pepperdine schools select an alumnus to speak to the graduating class. based on exceptional personal and/or professional accomplishments in their chosen field for emulating Pepperdine's mission by living a life of purpose, service, and leadership.The smiles on my mother, father and aunt's faces were priceless.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I really love the skin I'm in. I am always changing because I continue to grow. Nothing is stagnant in my life...so change is a constant for me.
Care to share any details on family life, i.e. spouse, partner, children, pets?
My mother and sister are both estheticians and I have a cousin who's an esthetician. I guess it runs in the family.
Tell us two things about yourself we don’t know.
Hmmm, do I have to?