Meet Elizabeth Manessis, CEO & Founder of Zeta Aesthetics NYC
March is Women's History Month, honoring the vital role of women in American history. This year’s theme is “Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope,” a tribute to the caregivers and frontline workers during the pandemic and in recognition of the many ways women have provided healing and hope throughout history.
This month we wanted to spotlight some of the partners we work with, incredible women who are business owners, creating an impact in their communities and or paving the way for future generations of female leaders. They share how they use the Flowcode platform to grow their business, what Women's History Month means to them, the best advice they've ever received and more.
Tell us about you and your business:
When I was 11 years old I immigrated from Greece to the United States. I didn't speak a word of English, but I remember how I much loved and mimicked everything I saw on TV–especially beauty and fashion. I spent many years investing in my education, learning how to read, write and perfect the English language in hopes of someday fulfilling the American dream by becoming a business owner.
Zeta Aesthetics NYC was born in late 2015, with the intention of creating a 5-Star clinical skincare experience specifically for clients with dark skin & severe skin damage - a rather underrepresented market in this industry until recent years. I had spent nearly 25 years as a Medical Aesthetician, Clinical Trainer, and private consultant which not only helped me grow my following but gave me a library of diverse skincare knowledge.
What sets my business apart from the competition is the safety and effectiveness of my devices, all of which are FDA-approved and safe for all skin types and conditions. I am also an active participant in Medical Aesthetic research, and one of my favorite studies is on Non-Filler Laser Lip Rejuvenation , for Aerolase Neo Technology.
How do you use the Flowcode platform across your business?
I use Flowcode across all of my marketing materials, from brochures, business cards, posters, merchandise, and social media- the custom branding of my code ties beautifully with my branding.
Flowtag & Flowpage are my favorite products by far. Currently, I have it linked to the Zeta Aesthetics NYC Flowpage which also serves as my business card.
I am always on the go- networking and traveling, so having the Flowtag on the back of my phone allows me to instantly connect and spread awareness from anywhere in the world. People always have the same reaction when they scan my Flowtag, it’s usually something along the lines of “wow, I need that for my business”.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you and what responsibility do you feel as a female business leader and entrepreneur?
Being raised in an old-fashioned immigrant family, Women's History month is very important to me- it symbolizes how every woman has a unique story supported by years of history. For me, this month symbolizes the evolution of women in my family. I think back to the patriotism of my grandmothers during the war, to the role of a housekeeper like my mother was in the 70’s, and fast forward to the transition of a young Greek girl raised to fulfill the role of an American woman in the United States- this girl was me.
During this month I celebrate the courage and strength of my ancestors during WWII and admire the strength of today's women in the new and ongoing challenges we face.
Thinking about the evolution of women in my family and others gives me an incredible sense of responsibility as a Female Entrepreneur. It is the responsibility of every generation to mentor the next. Education starts at home, with family, respect, religion, values, social behaviors, this is the mother of all educations.
Was there a moment in your life when you realized you had this responsibility?
For me, the moment of tremendous responsibility settled in when I had my kids. Back in the 80’s, raising children did not come with a quick Google search or an instruction manual. Instead, you relied on your instinct and the advice of your mother and grandmothers, and you acted accordingly. Raising children is a lesson and an experience like no other. It is the moment you realize you are a superwoman and can accomplish anything. Raising responsible children who become successful adults feels like you’ve won the lotto.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received and who gave it to you?
My grandmother Magdaline always reiterated her favorite quote by ancient Greek politician Pericles, “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others”- A saying that has followed me throughout my years.
Who has been one of the biggest role models in your life?
My biggest role models are my parents who both have incredible success stories. My mother & father grew up on a very small remote island in Greece and were unbelievably poor without basic luxuries such as a proper pair of shoes - they came to America with the intention to build a new life. My father is one of 8 orphans, he came to America to work as a merchant marine for a cruise line, saving every last penny to feed his family. My mother worked day and night in the sweatshops in the city, and somehow I still remember her presence in the home - making sure there was food on the table and clean clothes for my sister and I to blend in with the American culture. These two individuals who came from very humble beginnings paved the way for my children and grandchildren today.
How important is Flowcode as a tool for female business owners like yourself?
I can speak for many of us women in our 50’s or above - we have spent many years learning and adapting to new (and very expensive) technologies. What I love about Flowcode is the ease of adoption, it fits seamlessly into my day-to-day and has simplified processes such as booking appointments, tipping, and leaving reviews.
What’s next for you?
I am blessed to have built a thriving business in such a competitive market. Making it through this pandemic has been a blessing and I am thankful for my loyal client following and my staff. I look forward to continuing to grow and expand my business and someday franchise. Even as I inch closer to retirement, I plan to continue to teach and inspire young women to pursue a career that fulfills them.
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