Amy Leavelle Bransford- Eco-aesthetician

Amy Leavell Bransford, eco-aesthetician and graduate of Atlanta School of Massage opened “Aviary” last fall. Aviary, a collective located at Studioplex Lofts in Old Fourth Ward, is “a warm welcoming nest from which beauty and wellness take flight. It provides an oasis that is more about eco than ego, where the personal is professional and clients are considered friends.” The collective includes a hair stylist, makeup artist, massage therapist- Christine Legnon , also an ASM graduate and Amy Leavelle Bransford.

I asked Amy how she grew her successful skincare business and if she had any advice to share with current students and fellow graduates of Atlanta School of Massage and its skincare program, Atlanta Institute of Aesthetics. Since graduating in 2005 from ASM Amy has worked from home, worked with Natural Body Spa and rented space at Plum Salon. Last fall she bought the loft where she was renting space which is now home to Aviary. With a PR background, Amy has been persistent and attentive to marketing. A story in the Daily Candy last fall had a dramatic impact towards increasing business.

Despite its off-the-beaten-path location, Aviary is experiencing rapid success.Amy is a people connector, her advice- “get out of your shell and let everyone know what you do without being pushy.” A strong community vibe is present within the collective as well as among neighbors at Studioplex. “Everyone refers their own clients to other professionals. It’s not about competition.” Amy also brings community together through a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). She hosts a weekly pickup of locally grown organic foods.

Amy carries and uses only certified organic, chemical-free products. Dr.Hauschka, Juice beauty and Julie Hewett are some of her favorites. Amy is the only certified Dr. Hauschka aesthetician in Georgia. The Dr. Hauschka company philosophy and ethics are “powered by compassion while fostering well-being in the world and using ecologically sound methods of growing and sourcing ingredients.” Amy has followed her heart, with a mission to educate and nurture others while being a leader in sustainable business practices.