We were delighted to have Vanity Fair interview our CEO and Founder Natali Kelly! Read the interview below.
Vanity Fair: Women at Work
Natali Kelly’s eponymous clinic in Chelsea is making waves on the beauty scene, thanks to its unique concept which offers cutting-edge treatments, skincare, injectables and wellness all under the same roof. V.F. spoke with the woman herself to uncover her secrets for success…
I am a medically qualified Aesthetic Practitioner, Lifestyle Consultant and Reiki Healer, and I have over 10 years of experience combining my surgical background with non-surgical facial aesthetics and cosmetic dermatology. After spotting a gap in the market for a truly holistic skin health destination encompassing aesthetics, skincare, wellness and injectables, I decided to open my own—and I now have a beautiful flagship clinic in a Chelsea townhouse.
In short, I practice with a holistic approach. My area of expertise is in enhancing my clients’ natural beauty and I believe firmly in education and empowerment. Our ethos is beauty, body and mind alignment—so I might recommend body confidence coaching alongside a Reiki facial and then a sprinkle of injectables. I am also incredibly honest and often say no to my clients, which has earned me a lot of respect and trust. People really value the fact that if I recommend something, it is in their best interests. I hold a lot of responsibility when being able to change facial features and body image and psychologically I have to ensure my clients are suitable in order to protect their mental health.
My mother. She is the epitome of a strong woman who manages to balance a family and a business—and she always looks incredibly chic and stylish. Ever since I was a child, she pushed me to never settle for less than I deserve.
I love the creative part of my job which involves the science and artistry of aesthetics, but also the fact that I get to meet so many fascinating people from all walks of life. I am incredibly humbled to be given an insight into my clients’ journeys and help them through their struggles.
I really struggled with imposter syndrome for a long time. Even though I had the idea and concept for my flagship a long time ago, it was almost 10 years before I actually opened the clinic. I also found that there were a few men who tried to control and limit my growth, whether that be personally or in business. Working on my mental strength and spiritual development allowed me to let go of any fears that I wasn’t good enough. Aligning myself with a strong circle of successful women also empowered me and helped me to face life’s challenges head-on.
Honesty, integrity and passion— these are the foundation for everything I do. I truly believe that it is my purpose to help others to be the best that they can be, and that is what fuels my success. It is never about the money!
Achieving a healthy balance in life is incredibly difficult—particularly for me as a self-confessed workaholic. I love to work hard and play hard too, but I can burn out easily. It is very important for me to have a routine and rituals at home which help me to remain centred, such as Pilates, cooking, aromatherapy salt baths, reading and meditation—my house is like a Church with incense and candles everywhere. I am very spiritual and also a Reiki healer, therefore I have to do a lot of detoxing energetically, smudging my spaces regularly and having crystals next to me.
Believe in yourself and trust the process. And I’d emphasise the importance of self-love, and being kinder to myself. We tend to be our own worst critics, always wanting to be better and do better—but with age I have come to understand that it is ok to take a day off.
