We recently had the chance to connect with Michelle Makela and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Michelle , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work, I am loving horseback riding! It brings me so much joy to be out in nature and experiencing such a powerful/beautiful animal. I also volunteer at my local animal shelter and it brings me a lot of joy giving these dogs some comfort as they are waiting for their forever homes.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Michelle — the owner of M Spa Esthetics and Esthetically Inked located in beautiful Rocklin, CA. With a passion rooted in both skincare and art, I’ve dedicated my craft to helping people feel confident in their skin and express themselves through beauty. From rejuvenating facials, lashes, and waxing services to permanent makeup and custom tattoos, I bring together clinical esthetics and artistic creativity under one roof. Whether I’m transforming skin or creating body art, my goal is always the same: to make you feel like the most confident, authentic version of yourself. What makes me unique is the fact that i have my own suite, so you get a one on one experience in a clean/safe environment. Not to mention the serenity it brings you even when you’re getting a vulnerable service like a tattoo.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I spent years living my dream as a professional dancer, touring the world and experiencing all the excitement, discipline, and freedom that lifestyle had to offer. Those adventures gave me unforgettable life experience and shaped who I am today. Eventually though, I realized I was ready for a new chapter — one where I could create stability, build something of my own, and be in full control of my future. Now, instead of having others dictate my schedule, I run the show — and I’ve built a life and business that truly work for me.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, in fact, I actually did give up, on professional dancing. When Covid hit, I got terribly sick, the world had shut down, and there was no work. I watched how companies completely dropped dancers like it was nothing, and we were basically thrown away for a time. That impacted me greatly, i had felt it for awhile, but to really see how we were at the bottom of the totem pole, I had to reevaluate my life. I ended up moving home for awhile. I was in a complete identity crisis. Who was i if not a dancer?… My life was at a standstill. Through that I realized that i needed to do some inner work. I was able to find myself again, just the girl, the woman, Michelle. That who i was, was enough, without the titles, without the success, i was worthy. I decided that i needed more control over my life, that dancing did not offer. I could also reflect on the fact that the professional dance industry is way too toxic for me to be ok with. I needed that time in my life to open up to new possibilities and not put myself in a box. I believe anyone can do anything if they are willing to put the time in. So, i pursued different things, I became an esthetician, a tattoo artist, I work with animals, and still teach dance. I now feel way more fulfilled. So even though i gave up on dancing professionally, it taught be to never give up on myself.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say three things. My husband, my family, animals. My husband is my biggest support, he’s my greatest friend, and I couldn’t picture life without him. My family is also a huge support and are my world. My animals and animals in general are my best companions, i have a special connection with animals that makes me feel understood.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I’m gone, I hope people remember me as someone who enjoyed life. Someone who didn’t put herself in a box and actually went after the things that brought her joy. I hope I inspire people to do more of the things they love and not be fear based. I hope they remember me as someone who was kind, someone they could depend on.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
