TGt Meets…Shaftesbury Business Awards - Natalie Byrne-Regan

Shaftesbury Business Awards celebrate the businesses of the town of Shaftesbury. In this series of TGt Meets you can meet the winners.

Congratulations on your Shaftesbury Business Awards win. Which category were you recognised in?

The Young Entrepreneur/Rising Star category.

What does it mean to your business to have won an award at the Shaftesbury Business Awards this year?

This means the world to me. I have only been in this industry for two years and so to be recognised so early on in my business journey is absolutely amazing. It has also given me a further boost to ensure I drive the business forwards in 2025.

What is the history and background of your business?

As mentioned, I began this business just two years ago. The majority of my career was within marketing and business and I ran my own consultancy for over 10 years. However, it never particularly fulfilled me. I decided to create Laser Skin Solutions after having successful laser hair removal treatment myself and being so impressed with the outcome. I trained in everything I could and I now hold the highest qualification in laser. I have partnered with a device company and I also teach these qualifications as well as offering support to others who want to set themselves up within this industry.

How has being located in Shaftesbury influenced the growth and development of your business?

I was unsure if this ‘rural’ location would ensure a steady flow of clients. However, because the majority of clinics are based in major towns and cities, this has actually enhanced my business, as customers no longer have to travel an hour for this service. In addition, it’s a wonderful community and so word of mouth has been extremely beneficial for growth.

Can you share a challenge your business has faced and how you overcame it?

Because I am also a mum of 2 children and 2 stepchildren, I was initially concerned of the hours I was able to offer my clients, but I just make sure I’m extremely flexible to allow time for everyone!

How does your business contribute to the local community in Shaftesbury?

I offer hair and tattoo removal, however, I also offer treatments to remove thread veins, skin tags and milia. And I also help combat acne/acne scarring and aging. These are all huge confidence boosters for my clients and it’s wonderful to put a smile back on people’s faces. I run half price clinics for clients suffering with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the menopause – both of which contribute to excessive hair growth particularly on the face.

Every month I offer a free treatment to one client – These clients are nominated by friends and family to those individuals really needing a treat. And finally, I have given 23 free vouchers to charity raffles so far this year alone. Giving back to the community is really important to me.

What role do you believe local recognition, such as the Shaftesbury Business Awards, plays in helping small businesses thrive in Dorset?

Obviously the award is a good PR opportunity to allow more people to see and understand what you do as a business. So, there’s an awareness angle, however, it also it adds value to your business as a whole from the mere fact that it has been recognised as a good and well-managed business.

Click here to visit the Laser Skin Solutions website.