If you're like us, life can get pretty hectic. Between work, family, and everything else under the sun, taking time for yourself often falls to the bottom of the to-do list. But what if we told you there's a place in Gwinnett where you can escape from the daily grind and emerge feeling refreshed and revitalized? Let us introduce you to Hand & Stone in Loganville – your personal oasis for relaxation and self-care.
Curious about the heart behind Hand & Stone? We had a wonderful conversation with owner TiAnn Walker, who shared her personal story and the inspiration that led her to create a haven of wellness right here in our community.
TiAnn Walker - Hand and Stone Loganville/Grayson
2715 Loganville Hwy, Ste. 310, Loganville, GA 30052
Q: How did your business get started?
A: "I opened the business in Oct 2021 after selling our previous Custom Yard Sign business. The yard signs were definitely a labor of love and we were looking for something a bit more relaxing after staking celebration signs into the Georgia clay for 2 years. My husband and I visited a spa for our anniversary in November 2020, and that’s when I had my light bulb moment. Considering how much I’d benefited from massage therapy over the years due to my scoliosis, it seemed like the perfect fit!"
Q: What struggles have you faced along the way?
A: "For one, I decided to open a massage business in the middle of a pandemic. That was an uphill battle by itself. However, I was convinced that society would return to healing by touch sooner than later. Next, labor was a huge obstacle because so many massage therapists left the industry during covid and the massage schools had all but dried up. It was very difficult to find talent as the “service”talent pool was essentially bone dry! Additionally, I had all the other woes of a new business owner: cost of supplies, cash flow, rising labor costs, etc."
Q: What advice would you give to someone wanting to start their own business?
A: "Research, research, research, and bring more than a fair share of endurance. My pivot game is strong and I’ve learned to be very resourceful. I believe many businesses fail because people are unable or unwilling to weather the storm. The storm is coming. How much are you willing to bear? Many people give up before they get a chance to see their hard work pay off. Simply, I’d say persevere.”
Q: What is your favorite part about your job?
A: "My favorite part is cultivating an environment that people love to be a part of. Whether it’s my awesome staff or loyal customers, they make it all worthwhile for me."
Q: What is the hardest part about your job?
A: "The pivot. Because you never know if your new ideals or practices will be successful. Pivoting is such an important part of business but it can be gut-wrenching at times."
Q: What goals do you have for Hand & Stone?
A: "Philanthropy and Legacy. I want to be in a position to share my time, talents, and treasures wherever I can. I offer business mentorship to collegiate young ladies and strive to continue giving back in the future. I want to be a role model to my children and people in my community. With proper preparation, anything is possible."
Be sure to stop by Hand & Stone next time you are in Sugar Hill.
Explore Gwinnett continues to make an effort to promote local minority-owned, LGBTQ, and women-owned businesses. To support this initiative, we are writing blogs focusing on owners and telling their stories. Click here to read more Local Love stories.
