Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Vandegriffe.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always believed that the life you want is something you have to be willing to work for. I graduated from high school early at 17 and worked throughout middle school and high school, saving enough money to pay for esthetics school entirely on my own. In 2006, I attended school two days a week for 12-hour days while also working two jobs and averaging around 60 hours a week.
I began my career in esthetics shortly after graduating. When the economy declined in 2008 and many people began cutting back on self-care services, I decided to continue my education and earned degrees in social work and psychology. By the time I finished, the economy had improved, and I realized that esthetics was still where I felt most fulfilled and where my strongest skills were. And to be completely honest, where I was making the most money.
I returned to the industry and spent years working for corporate waxing businesses, continuing to build my experience while also going back to school for business. I had dreamed of opening my own waxing studio for a long time, but I was afraid to leave the security of a steady paycheck.
Becoming a mother changed my perspective. My children made me realize how valuable my time was and gave me the courage to create a career that allowed me to be more present for them. That decision ultimately led me to open Going Rogue Wax Studio, a business built around comfort, inclusivity, affordability, and exceptional service.
The studio is named after my daughter, Rogue, and the rose in my branding represents my son’s birth flower. My children are not only the reason I finally took the leap—they are woven into the heart of the business.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. One of my biggest challenges was balancing work, school, and family for many years. I regularly worked long hours, held multiple jobs, and continued my education while trying to build a stable future.
My biggest challenge was overcoming fear. I had the experience, education, and vision to open my own studio, but leaving a reliable corporate position felt risky. For years, I questioned whether I was ready, even though I had spent nearly two decades preparing for it.
Motherhood also made the sacrifices of working long hours feel much more personal. I missed important moments with my daughter while building someone else’s business, and that became a turning point for me. I knew I wanted to continue pursuing the career I loved, but I also wanted the freedom to be present for my children.
Once I opened my studio, I had to learn how to manage every part of a business while building a clientele from the ground up. There were financial risks, long days, and moments of self-doubt, but each challenge strengthened my confidence. The experience taught me to be resourceful, adaptable, and willing to trust the skills I had spent years developing. I can honestly say that 7 months in my business is already thriving I have one other amazing experienced waxer working under me and already looking to expand.
Most importantly, I made all this happen without miss my son’s major milestones like I did with my daughter and also gaining amazing memories with both of my children this summer.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I own Going Rogue Wax Studio and bring nearly 20 years of experience to my work, specializing in Brazilian, brow, and full-body waxing. I provide Brazilian waxing for clients with both female and male anatomy, creating an inclusive space where every body, every gender identity, and every pronoun is welcomed and respected. My goal is for each client to feel comfortable, safe, and valued while receiving detailed, high-quality service.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Putting yourself out there and allowing people to see the real you has been one of the most effective ways I have built connections. Because I provide intimate services, trust is essential. By sharing my personality across social media—especially TikTok—new clients often feel comfortable with me before they ever walk through the door.
I also believe networking requires genuinely showing up. I am an active member of the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, where I attend events, sponsor tables, and have had opportunities to speak. My business supports causes that matter to me, including donating to Pride St. Louis, and I am always open to collaborating with other local businesses.
I am fortunate to have friends who own successful waxing businesses and have encouraged me while sharing valuable advice. I have learned that technical skill alone does not guarantee a successful business, so I made it a priority to understand business operations, marketing, and finances. That knowledge also allows me to keep my prices affordable by running efficiently and intentionally—not by sacrificing quality.
Pricing:
- Brazilian (vulva anatomy) $50
- Brazilian (penis anatomy) $50
- Eyebrows $18
- Underarms $20
- Full Legs $75
Contact Info:
- Website: https://goingroguewaxstudio.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goingroguewaxstudio?igsh=MXZscmg1azY5bHAyYQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585237375502&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@goingroguewax?_r=1&_t=ZP-98MLyZerrx9
