Late Starts, Minimum Days, and lots of Energy Drinks: What It Really Took to Open My Electrolysis Studio in Murrieta

Starting School… Slowly (Very Slowly)

When I enrolled at the California Electrology Academy in Corona, I had a vision: finish fast, pass the exam, open my studio, and start helping people feel confident in their skin.

But as a mom of two energetic boys and with my husband being out of town at least two weeks a month, my schedule had a mind of its own. I could only attend classes while they were in school, which meant my progress was… let’s say “leisurely.”
Picture a snail, but the snail is also juggling backpacks, lunchboxes, and PTA emails.

Even with my pace, every day at the academy was worth it — especially because of one incredible woman.

The Woman Who Inspired Me: Miss Johanne Fortier Gonella

One of the biggest inspirations during my time at the California Electrology Academy was Johanne Fortier Gonella, the founder and a true pioneer in the electrolysis world. She’s Canadian, with the most charming French accent — which, when paired with my very heavy Romanian accent, created a combination that honestly should’ve earned its own comedy show. Sometimes it felt like we were having full conversations where neither of us fully understood the other, but somehow, we always ended up on the same page.

Johanne was tough, direct, and absolutely immune to sugarcoating. She never held back a criticism — not even a little — and trust me, she always had one ready just for me. But I appreciated every bit of it. She pushed me, corrected me, challenged me, and raised my standards. Thanks to her, every time I pick up a probe, I can still hear her voice (French–Romanian subtitles not included), reminding me to do my absolute best.

The Board Exam (AKA: The Month I Lived on Energy Drinks)

After finishing the program later than expected, I scheduled my state exam for September. Studying, practicing, reviewing—my brain basically ran on pure determination and adrenaline.

And it worked — I officially became a California licensed electrologist.

Opening My Studio… Not Exactly How I Planned

After passing the exam, I started searching for a studio space. I wanted more than anything to open in Menifee. It’s my community, my home, and where I wanted to serve.

But Menifee had other ideas.

Spaces were unavailable, overpriced, too small, too big, or just… wrong. Every time I thought I found “the one,” something fell apart. It felt like apartment hunting in Los Angeles — unrealistic expectations everywhere.

Eventually, after more headaches than I can count, I found my space in Murrieta, and I opened my studio in October.

Has it been smooth?
Let’s say: I’m still fighting a few battles with this location.

But it’s home for now — and it’s where I get to do the work I love.

You Found Me! Now, Let's Get You Smooth

Even as a new studio, my commitment is to serve the entire region. This blog is part of that effort—making sure everyone in Southwest Riverside County knows where to find electrolysis permanent hair removal.

Consider this your friendly, passion-fueled reminder: If you're in Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, Wildomar, French Valley, Winchester, or anywhere in Southwest Riverside County, I am your local electrologist, eager and ready to help you on your journey to smooth skin.

Why This Journey Matters to Me

Every long drive to Corona.
Every late night study session.
Every location headache.
Every moment of doubt.

All of it led me to a career I love more deeply than I ever expected. Electrolysis changed my life after a lifelong struggle with hair removal, and now I get to help others feel exactly what I felt — relief, confidence, and freedom.

This may not have been the easiest road, but it’s been the most meaningful.

And trust me… this journey is just getting started.