Owners and founders Polina and Anton Nikolaev traveled from Boston, Massachusetts to Orange County to open a business. Anton quit his job, they packed up the car, and they decided to go for it. With Anton’s background in business and Polina’s extensive experience as a dermatologist, they put their skills together and founded The Face Company (FACECO) in Costa Mesa.
Once they arrived in Orange County, the pair reached out to the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network (OCIE SBDC) for help and met with OCIE SBDC business consultants Robern Ahn and Michelle Chuang.
“Everything was clearly structured and every step was explained in detail. The personal approach was exceptional, going above and beyond,” shares Polina. “I received the best available help for starting a new business and greatly appreciate it.”
Since opening in November, FACECO has taken off. FACECO sets themselves apart by specializing in buccal massage. This technique releases deep-set muscle tension that promotes a lifted facial appearance by stimulating circulation and collagen production to enhance skin tone, elasticity, and natural contouring.
FACECO held their grand opening celebration on Friday, June 14 and consultant Robert shares his experience working with the couple. “I’ve been working with Anton since July of 2023, and he came to the SBDC wanting to open their business. At that time, it was just an idea, and he wanted our help to make it a reality. We worked on business formation and a business plan. Throughout this, I got to know Anton and Polina’s background and it became very apparent that they’re going to be successful,” shares Robert.
“FACECO really fits perfectly for the two of them. He struggled with finding a location, but with a little patience we found this great spot in Costa Mesa. It’s been great working with them, and I look forward to continuing to work with them as they grow,” continues Robert.
Anton and Polina have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of FACECO and are looking for opportunities to further grow their business. “It’s a very special moment for us and to have this grand opening. shares Anton. Thank you to Robert and the SBDC for supporting us. They have been a big help.”
The Face Company is open for business in Costa Mesa at 170 17th Street and is looking to open a second location.
Looking to start or grow your own service-based small business?
Connect with the OCIE SBDC today. We offer business consulting, training, and access to resources to entrepreneurs and business owners throughout the Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties at no cost. As the go-to resource for small businesses, the OCIE SBDC provides solutions and opportunities for small businesses throughout the region to become successful. Call 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a 15-minute intake appointment.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Funded in part through a grant with the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
Mike Daniel is the network director of the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network, which assists aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners throughout Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Mike was formerly the director of the SBDC office at Long Beach City College. As business owner and entrepreneur himself, he started his career as the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory location in Manhattan Beach and went on to open a second location in Long Beach in 2001. In 2007, Mike sold the Manhattan Beach store for an above-market offer then invested in several additional locations as a minority shareholder. Mike further expanded his candy empire with venture located in Shoreline Village in Long Beach called Sugar Daddies Sweet Shoppe, based on fill-it yourself candy options.
Mike has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.