October 15, 2024

Personal Passion Becomes Business Success

With guidance from the OCIE SBDC, Jessica and Andrew Park transformed their vision of wellness into Nosta Sauna Lounge, a relaxation space offering private sauna experiences.

A Vision of Wellness

Andrew and Jessica Park wanted to create a space where people could unwind and recharge. Their vision took shape in 2021 when they decided to start their own small business, Nosta Sauna Lounge, a boutique facility offering private sauna rooms for a personalized relaxation experience. Andrew, who works with his family’s commercial dry cleaning business, and Jessica, a recent law school graduate, saw the need for a conventional wellness space and decided to open their own.

“The idea for Nosta Sauna grew out of our own experiences,” said Andrew. “My wife and I were regulars at an infrared sauna studio, but we always felt uneasy being surrounded by artificial black panels emitting electromagnetic radiation to heat our bodies. It just didn’t feel right.” The couple began looking for a traditional sauna in their area, only to find that there were none. “What started as a joke about opening our own sauna studio soon became a reality, and that’s how Nosta Sauna was born,” shared Andrew.

From Concept to Opening

Seeking guidance, the couple turned to the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network (OCIE SBDC) and partnered with consultant Kathleen Swift. Kathleen and the OCIE SBDC worked with Andrew and Jessica from the early stages in March 2021, offering crucial support in everything from crafting their business plan and conducting market research to navigating the complexities of leasing, hiring, and branding. “The SBDC has been invaluable in helping us start our business,” Jessica shared. “Kathleen guided us through every stage of the process, asking questions we hadn’t even thought of and helping us create comprehensive financial projections. Her careful planning and advice were essential to our successful launch of Nosta.”

A Personal Support System

“The most valuable aspect of working with the SBDC was the personal support we received from Kathleen,” said Andrew. “She was with us every step of the way, celebrating each milestone with us — from signing the lease to completing construction. Her unwavering commitment to our success made all the difference.” Jessica echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the thoroughness of the planning process. “Kathleen’s attention to detail was incredible. She made sure we considered every aspect of the business, from the number of towels needed for each session to the energy costs of running the saunas. It was that level of preparation that set us up for success.”

Open for Relaxation and Wellness

Now open to the public, Nosta Sauna Lounge is proud to offer a calming, rejuvenating experience to residents of Orange County and beyond. “We’re so excited to be able to help Andrew and Jessica achieve their dream, and we’ll continue to support them as they grow,” said Kathleen.

Looking to Start or Grow Your Business?

Connect with the OCIE SBDC today. We provide business consulting, training, and access to resources for entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties at no cost. As the go-to resource for small businesses, the OCIE SBDC offers solutions and opportunities to help your business thrive.

Call 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a 15-minute intake appointment today.