Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Tellez
Hi Monica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My story is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering dedication to helping others feel their best. Growing up as a Latina with the challenges that many face, I could have easily become a statistic. But I always knew that my purpose was to uplift others and create a life that not only supported my own family but also allowed me to impact the lives of those around me in a positive way.
Becoming a mother at a young age was not part of the plan, but it changed me in profound ways. I was just a teenager when I had my first child, and I quickly realized that the odds were stacked against me. Yet, I wasn’t about to let my circumstances define me. With the support of my family and an intense determination, I decided to pursue a career in nursing. I knew this was my path to creating a better future for myself and my family.
In 2015, I was accepted into the BSN program at UT Health San Antonio, and I graduated in 2017. I was incredibly proud to begin my nursing career in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital. Working in the NICU was where I really honed my critical thinking skills, but what I loved most about this role was the connection I made with the families. As a mother myself, I understood the fear, uncertainty, and hope that parents experience when their newborns are in the NICU. That connection fueled my passion for patient care and motivated me to take the next step in my career.
In 2019, I was accepted into the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at UT Health San Antonio. Despite the challenges posed by balancing my studies, my growing family, and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was determined to finish what I had started. In August 2022, I graduated with my DNP, all while raising a family of 7. My husband and I have been together for nearly 15 years, and we’re blessed with five beautiful daughters.
After graduating, I spent two years working at an urgent care, where I developed my skills as a Nurse Practitioner. But while I was pursuing my DNP, I had already begun to feel drawn to a new area of healthcare: aesthetics. I took certification courses, immersed myself in facial anatomy books, joined aesthetic communities like Patreon, and attended every training I could find. I knew this was the next chapter in my professional journey.
My breakthrough came when I discovered Nova Aesthetics and met Marta Paul, who became a mentor to me. Her guidance and mentorship were instrumental in helping me build the confidence I needed to venture into aesthetics. After completing her mentorship program, I decided to take the leap and start my own business in a salon suite. Though my time there was brief—only three months due to the high costs and location challenges—I wasn’t discouraged. In February 2024, I moved my business to CBxLA, and that decision proved to be a game-changer.
The growth of my business has been nothing short of extraordinary. Just eight months later, I was ready to open my own location. We found the perfect space, a 2,230 sq ft facility with 10 rooms, and began the process of remodeling it to suit our needs. I’m thrilled to say that we now have our own space and have expanded our team, bringing on our first nurse injector, Shelly Rosales.
This journey has taught me countless lessons, and one of the most important is the power of adaptability. As a business owner, if you cannot pivot and adjust to change, you won’t succeed. There have been challenges along the way—financial hurdles, tough decisions, and moments of doubt—but the support of my patients and my deep passion for what I do have always kept me going.
Today, I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to enhance the natural beauty of my patients, making them feel heard, valued, and their absolute best. Helping others has always been my purpose, and now, through my work in aesthetics, I’m able to do that on a larger scale.
None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, my patients, and the belief that when you stay true to your passion and are willing to work hard, anything is possible. The best part? This is just the beginning.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Financial Struggles and the Early Days of My Aesthetic Business
When I made the decision to pursue a career in aesthetics, it wasn’t easy. I started by taking certification courses on the side, reading books, attending training sessions, and building up my skills. But transitioning from a traditional nursing role to opening my own aesthetics business meant stepping into the unknown. The financial burden of starting a business—especially in a field like aesthetics, where there’s significant overhead and competition—was daunting. My first salon suite was only a temporary space, and I faced constant financial strain with the high rent and distance from my patients. I also had to deal with the realities of running a business: marketing, client acquisition, and managing all the logistics.
Constant Pivoting as a Business Owner
As a business owner, things don’t always go as planned. I learned early on that the ability to pivot is critical. After just three months in my first salon suite, I realized the location wasn’t ideal, and the rent was unsustainable. It felt like a setback, but I saw it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I found a more affordable space at CBxLA, which turned out to be a blessing. My business started to flourish in that new environment. However, I quickly realized that even with growth, the challenges of running a business would only intensify. From managing a team to overseeing the finances, there were many days when I questioned whether I could keep going. But I continued to pivot and adjust to what my business—and my clients—needed.
The Pressure of Balancing Family and Career
As my business grew, so did the demands on my time. Having a large family means that there’s always something happening at home—school events, family dinners, volleyball games, you name it. I sometimes felt torn between my career and my responsibilities as a wife and mother. But I always remind myself that this journey is for my family. Every late night spent working, every sacrifice made, is so that we can build a life full of opportunities for them. The key has been learning how to delegate, asking for help when needed, and setting boundaries. It’s all about finding balance, even when it feels impossible.
Looking back, none of these struggles were easy, but each one played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. They taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of flexibility, and the power of staying true to my passion and purpose. My journey has been anything but smooth, but the bumps along the way have made the victories all the more rewarding. And through it all, I’ve learned that if you don’t give up, if you keep adapting, and if you remain focused on your goals, you’ll make it to where you want to be.
As you know, we’re big fans of Haus of Aesthetics Med Spa. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Empowering Natural Beauty: Aesthetics with Heart
At the heart of my business is a commitment to empowering individuals by enhancing their natural beauty in a way that makes them feel confident, comfortable, and truly heard. My journey into aesthetics began with a passion for helping people feel their best—whether it’s through the care I provided as a nurse or now, through aesthetics, where I can make a more visible and immediate impact on my clients’ self-esteem and confidence.
What We Do:
My business specializes in a variety of aesthetic treatments designed to enhance natural beauty, including Botox and Dermal Fillers, Microneedling, Medical Weight Loss, IV hydration therapy, and Skin Care. We also offer personalized consultations to ensure that each treatment is tailored to meet the individual needs of our clients. From reducing fine lines and wrinkles to restoring volume and hydration, my team and I are passionate about using the latest advancements in aesthetics to help our clients look and feel their very best.
What sets us apart from other aesthetic practices is the patient-first approach I’ve cultivated from my nursing background. I don’t just focus on the aesthetic outcome—I focus on the whole experience, ensuring that my clients feel informed, cared for, and truly listened to. Whether it’s taking the time to discuss their desired results, explaining each step of the procedure, or following up to ensure their satisfaction, I treat every client like family. For me, it’s not just about injecting a product; it’s about building trust and relationships.
What Makes Us Different:
A Holistic, Patient-Centered Approach
Unlike many aesthetic practices, we truly focus on understanding our clients as individuals, not just a procedure. I always tell my patients: “This is about enhancing the beauty you already have, not creating a new you.” That mindset sets us apart. I believe that beauty is deeply personal, and I’m dedicated to offering treatments that align with my patients’ goals, natural features, and lifestyle.
Expertise and Experience:
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner (NP) with years of clinical experience in the NICU and urgent care, I bring a medical, scientific approach to aesthetics. My background in nursing means I have a deep understanding of anatomy, safety, and holistic patient care. I’m not just following trends—I’m making evidence-based decisions to provide the best care possible for each client.
Ongoing Education and Training:
I am committed to continuous learning, which is why I’ve pursued numerous certifications, training courses, and mentorships. My mentorship with Marta Paul at Nova Aesthetics gave me the confidence to launch my business, and I continue to take part in aesthetic education to stay on top of emerging techniques, trends, and technologies. Whether it’s perfecting injection techniques or learning the latest skincare innovations, I am always evolving to give my patients the best service.
Inclusive and Welcoming Atmosphere:
I’m incredibly proud that my practice is a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of background, age, or experience with aesthetics. From young professionals to those seeking age-related treatments, our clinic is a place where everyone can feel comfortable and confident in their decision to enhance their appearance. We celebrate diversity and focus on creating an environment where every person feels respected and valued.
What We’re Most Proud Of:
I’m most proud of how far we’ve come in such a short amount of time and the incredible impact we’ve had on the lives of our patients. From starting in a small salon suite to moving into a beautiful, 2,230 sq ft clinic, I’m amazed at how much our community has embraced our services. But what makes me the proudest is the feedback from my patients—the trust they place in me and the relationships I’ve built with them.
One of my biggest accomplishments has been hiring Shelly Rosales, our first nurse injector. It’s been so rewarding to watch my business grow, not only in terms of services and space but also in team development. Shelly is an extension of the care I want to provide to my clients, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to have her on board. Watching my vision come to life through the work we do together is one of the things I’m most grateful for.
What I Want Our Readers to Know:
I want readers to know that our clinic is all about personalized care. We focus on helping people feel beautiful, not just by enhancing their features, but by ensuring they feel heard, respected, and fully informed about the process. We pride ourselves on honesty and integrity, making sure that every recommendation we make is in the best interest of the client—not just a quick fix.
Our brand stands for natural beauty, confidence, and empowerment. We’re not here to change people; we’re here to bring out the best version of them. Whether you’re looking for subtle improvements or more noticeable enhancements, we’ll work with you to make sure you leave feeling confident, rejuvenated, and truly yourself.
We also want potential clients to know that we are a safe, clean, and welcoming space where their aesthetic needs are treated with the utmost care and professionalism. We are constantly working on new ways to make our services more accessible, and we offer free consultations to help you understand your options before making any decisions.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My Husband, Isai Tellez: My Rock and Partner in Every Way
First and foremost, I have to give Isai Tellez the credit he truly deserves. He has been my partner, support system, and cheerleader from day one. We’ve been together for almost 15 years, and through every challenge, Isai has been by my side, encouraging me when I felt overwhelmed, and helping me keep my eye on the bigger picture.
When I became a teen mom, Isai didn’t just stand by me—he stood up with me. He was there as I made my way through nursing school, juggling work, motherhood, and the pressures of building a future. He’s always been my biggest advocate, believing in me even when I doubted myself. And now, as my business continues to grow, he’s been right there every step of the way—whether it’s helping me move into new spaces, offering ideas for improving efficiency, or just being a sounding board when tough decisions need to be made.
Isai is not only the emotional and mental support I need, but he also takes on a hands-on role in the business whenever necessary, assisting with logistics, tech setups, and even helping with things like finance and marketing behind the scenes. He understands the vision for the future of the business and plays a critical role in helping me achieve it. Our partnership goes beyond just personal life—it’s deeply woven into the fabric of our shared dream and vision for the business. I couldn’t do this without him, and I truly believe our success is a reflection of our strength as a team.
Mentors and Educators Who Helped Shape My Path
Alongside Isai, there have been incredible mentors and educators who helped shape my journey and offered guidance when I needed it the most:
Marta Paul at Nova Aesthetics: Marta has been a true mentor to me in the world of aesthetics. Her expertise, guidance, and unwavering support gave me the confidence to launch my aesthetic practice. I was lucky to join her mentorship program, where I not only learned the technical aspects of injections but also how to approach the aesthetic field with a holistic, patient-centered mindset. Marta’s belief in me helped me realize that I could succeed in this new career and business. I’ll always be grateful for her insights, especially as I took the leap into aesthetics.
Faculty and Advisors at UT Health San Antonio:
From my time in the BSN program to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, I had the privilege of working with incredible educators and advisors who always pushed me to be my best. Their guidance in both clinical skills and leadership was invaluable. They encouraged me to keep going even when life felt like it was pulling me in a thousand directions. I will always appreciate their support throughout my academic journey.
CBxLA Beauty Lounge: A Sisterhood of Strong Women
One of the most significant turning points in my business came when I found the perfect space to grow my practice at CBxLA Beauty Lounge. The women at CBxLA have been an incredible source of support, mentorship, and inspiration. From day one, they welcomed me with open arms and allowed me to be part of their community of like-minded professionals.
At CBxLA, I was able to build deeper relationships with other beauty professionals who shared my passion for creating transformative experiences for clients. The owners and fellow practitioners, have been a constant source of encouragement, business insights, and friendship. They truly embody the spirit of collaboration over competition, and I’m proud to be part of such an empowering, supportive environment.
Having a network of women who understand the struggles and triumphs of running a business has been invaluable. From sharing business strategies to giving advice on everything from client management to social media marketing, the women at CBxLA have helped me grow my practice in ways I never imagined possible.
Queen of the Mouth: Empowerment and Education
Another amazing woman who has been essential in my growth is Heather Cortez owner of Queen of the Mouth. Heather focuses on helping people—especially women—feel empowered and confident in their own smile.
Their mentorship has been invaluable as I’ve navigated the intricacies of injectables, facial anatomy, and building a business from the ground up. Not only have they helped me grow as a practitioner, but they’ve also taught me the importance of building a brand that stands for empowerment, education, and authenticity.
I admire how Queen of the Mouth promotes an environment of self-love and confidence, and it’s something I’ve taken to heart as I continue to build my business. The women at Queen of the Mouth have shown me the importance of staying true to my values while being open to new knowledge and growth, and I’m so grateful for the opportunities we’ve had to collaborate.
Supporters and Clients Who Believe in Me
Another critical group in my journey has been my clients. From the moment I started my business, I’ve been lucky to have an incredible group of patients who trusted me to enhance their natural beauty. The loyalty and support from these clients have meant the world to me. Many of them have followed me from my early days in a small salon suite to our current location, and their continued belief in my work has been one of the biggest motivations for growing the business.
I’m especially grateful for the clients who take the time to share their experiences with others, referring friends and family to our clinic. Word-of-mouth referrals have been essential to the success of our practice, and that’s a direct result of the trust and positive experiences my clients have had with us. I see each of them as more than just a patient—they are part of the story I’m writing for this business, and their testimonials, feedback, and encouragement keep me moving forward.
My Team: The Heart of My Business
Lastly, I’m deeply thankful for the team I’ve been able to build. Hiring Shelly Rosales as our first nurse injector was a big step in the growth of the business. Shelly brings an incredible level of skill, professionalism, and heart to the practice. She shares my vision of making each client feel truly seen and heard, and her expertise has already made such a difference to our operations. Building a team is a process that takes time, but having Shelly on board has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for the business. I’m looking forward to continuing to expand our team as the business grows.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hausofaesthetics.us
- Instagram: @hausofaestheticsmedspa @beautoxinjector
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hausofaestheticsmedspa
- Twitter: HAmedspa
- Other: https://app.portraitcare.com/booking/haus-of-aesthetics-med-spa
