Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Saettele.
Hi Megan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hi! My name is Megan, that’s the English name I chose, like many immigrants, to make it a little easier for others to spell and pronounce. But behind this simple name is a story filled with dreams, resilience, and family.
I first came to the U.S. as an international student, chasing my dream of education. After earning my Master’s degree from Mizzou, life took me on new paths, I got married, became a mom, and like many mothers, I started searching for a way to balance work and family life.
That journey led me into the nail industry and running a small online business, something that allowed me to stay close to my kids while still contributing financially. But when the pandemic hit, my online business was wiped out.
Instead of giving up, I decided to return to what I knew best, nails, and this time, I took a leap of faith. In 2024, I bought Sole Lounge Day Spa from its original family owners. It was already a beloved spot in Webster Groves, and I wanted to honor its roots while giving it new energy. So I rolled up my sleeves, literally, painting walls, moving furniture, and transforming it into a calm, welcoming space that reflects who I am.
Today, Sole Lounge is a small local business with a big heart. My team and I take pride in offering not just quality nail care, but also warmth, conversation, and a place where people can truly relax and feel at home.
Owning this salon has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey, a way to serve the community, provide for my family, and live out the dream I once came here chasing.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely wasn’t a smooth road. Taking over ownership came with many unexpected challenges. The transition itself was difficult, from learning new systems to earning the trust of existing clients. On top of that, remodeling the shop was both physically and financially demanding. There were days when customer traffic was so low that it was truly heartbreaking.
During that period, I struggled with a lot of anxiety and even fell into depression at times. As an immigrant business owner, I faced an additional layer of challenge, I didn’t have the same management background or perspective as a native-born entrepreneur. I relied heavily on what I’d learned from the salons I’d worked in before, but soon realized I needed to adjust my approach.
With guidance from an American friend and a lot of self-reflection, I shifted the way I managed the business, focusing more on creating a truly relaxing experience for clients, improving communication, and understanding customer expectations from a local perspective.
That change made a huge difference. Gradually, clients noticed and appreciated the new atmosphere. Their satisfaction grew, and so did my confidence. Looking back, the hard times taught me so much, about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of blending my cultural strengths with local understanding.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Sole Lounge Day Spa is more than just a nail salon, it’s a peaceful retreat built with heart, culture, and community in mind. We specialize in high-quality nail care and spa services designed to help our clients relax, recharge, and feel confident. But what truly sets us apart is the experience we create: a calm, welcoming atmosphere where every guest feels seen, cared for, and valued.
As an immigrant-owned, women-led small business, our story is rooted in resilience and reinvention. When I took over Sole Lounge, my goal wasn’t just to maintain what was already loved about the shop — I wanted to elevate it. I refreshed the space with a modern, cozy design and created a service culture centered on kindness, mindfulness, and attention to detail.
We’re known for our gentle care, cleanliness, personalized service, and the way we build genuine relationships with our clients. Many of our guests tell us they come not just for beautiful nails, but for the sense of peace and warmth they feel here.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that Sole Lounge reflects who we are, a small local business with a big heart. We blend professional expertise with cultural richness and community spirit. We care deeply about supporting other local businesses, uplifting fellow immigrants, and providing a space where everyone feels at home.
What I want readers to know is this: when you walk into Sole Lounge, you’re not just getting a service, you’re entering a place built with love, where every detail is meant to help you unwind, reconnect with yourself, and leave feeling renewed.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What truly makes me happy is seeing my clients leave the salon with a smile, feeling relaxed, refreshed, and re-energized. When someone walks out looking lighter, more confident, and cared for, it fills me with joy.
In those moments, I feel like all the hard work, long days, and challenges are worth it, because I know I’ve made a positive difference in someone’s day. That’s what keeps me going. Helping others feel good inside and out isn’t just my job, it’s my passion and purpose.
Pricing:
- Manicure starting from $25
- Pedicure starting from $35
- Eyelash extensions starting from $40
- Facial starting from $45
- Artificial nails starting from $45
Contact Info:
- Website: https://soleloungedayspastlmo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soleloungedayspa?igsh=dHFnMHlzY2ZvMW9i
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oldwebstergroves
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sole-lounge-day-spa-webster-groves
