A Reading's beauty business, ‘Rebalance’, has been named ‘Best beauty salon/clinic’ in the national Muddy Stiletto Awards.

The accolade caps off a remarkable journey for entrepreneur Sarah Maslen-Leese, who launched the business on a shoestring 13 years ago.

Born in Oxford, Sarah moved to Reading to establish her dream skincare clinic in her home garden at Tokers Green.

Starting from a tiny room in a nail salon, she worked tirelessly to establish herself in the beauty industry.

She said: "I started when I was around 21. I had no money to my name, I didn’t even have a driving licence, so I had to cycle everything to work".

Despite facing early challenges, she swiftly moved to various locations until finally setting up the successful at-home clinic.

The Muddy Stiletto Awards celebrate business across the country that have gone above and beyond for their clients and customers.

Sarah was shortlisted for their national awards after winning the title of ‘Best beauty salon/clinic’ in Berkshire.

She was selected by on-the-ground editors and Muddy Stilettos chief executive from regional winners throughout their 28 counties.

The therapist specifically focusses on skin care and clinical massage, aspiring to blend the best of both worlds - the serenity of a spa and the expertise of a clinical skin specialist.

Over the years, she has continually upgraded her skills through various top trainers in London.

With her business growing successfully, it was not just her impressive services but also her mental health advocacy that bolstered her popularity.

She said: "I’m a huge mental health advocate. Two and a half years ago, I was incredibly sick post-partum… I've been very open about my journey on social media.

"In being vulnerable, I have found that people like that and feel like they can trust me".

Sarah's approach has proven hugely successful, resonating particularly with clients who have experienced similar struggles.

She shared: "Some clients have come to me saying they’ve followed my journey when I was really sick.

"They feel safe here with someone that understands".

Her reputation has been further buoyed with her presence on social media, where she has over 40,000 followers from all around the world, especially America.

 

The rising entrepreneur has extended her talents to mentoring, offering online courses, and setting a three-year plan to expand once her son starts schooling.

Sarah’s commitment to high-quality skincare services is reflected in her choice of products.

She uses Illumier MD skincare brand for treatments and works with clients all over England to help them gain skin confidence.

Reflecting on her recent accolade, she said: "It feels absolutely amazing that I had been chosen as the winner of the Muddy Stiletto national ‘best beauty salon’. It means the world to me."

Having a small home clinic win against high-street salons sheds light on how the beauty industry is constantly adapting.

Sarah adds: "People don’t seem to be choosing to go to the high street clinics anymore. I think that’s because people like that personal touch".

From humble beginnings to being crowned UK's best beauty salon, Sarah's entrepreneurial journey is truly inspirational, proving success comes with hard work, dedication and a little bit of vulnerability.