Turning a shared passion into a thriving enterprise with Charlie Welch of Wax & Relax
There’s something truly magical about an entrepreneur who creates a successful business out of a childhood passion. Growing up with a beautician mother certainly had its perks for Harlow customer, Charlie Welch, of Wax & Relax, who, after years of being on the receiving end, decided to set up shop with her mother, Heather. Though Heather has sadly passed away, Charlie’s thriving business is a testament to the bond they shared, as she honours her mother’s legacy by helping other women to feel as special and cared for as her mum had made her feel.
Like mother, like daughter
It’s the type of upbringing young many girls can only dream of. Charlie’s mother decided to retrain as a beautician during her childhood and would often bring young Charlie in to model for her training sessions or practice on her at home. Mini facials, eyebrow waxes and even getting fitted with prosthetic make-up? Charlie was understandably hooked.
‘I was a typical teenage girl; I loved a bit of makeup and having beauty treatments done. I was quite lucky, because it was free, so I got to experience many of these luxuries that other teenagers didn’t, and I just loved it.’
Once that seed was planted, there was little Charlie could do to stop it from blooming. Although Charlie initially explored other avenues, she eventually found herself returning to her passion.
Today, she operates Wax & Relax from a cosy one-room studio at Greenway Business Centre in Harlow, where she has specialised in intimate waxing for over a decade. Her services include Lycon™ Waxing, lash tints and lifts, and Shellac and OPI manicures. With a focus on professionalism and comfort, she’s built a loyal clientele that values her expertise and her genuine, personal care.
A business built around family and care
After working at a few different salons, it became clear that becoming her own boss would allow Charlie the flexibility to care for her then young daughter. Joining forces with her mother, who specialised in Reiki and massages, Wax & Relax was born.
What sets Wax & Relax apart from competitors is Charlie’s unwavering dedication to quality and client wellbeing. The business uses Lycon™ waxing products, which require specific training and aren’t available through wholesalers. These products allow for waxing from shorter hair lengths with virtually no skin damage; a key benefit that supports both client comfort and safety.
Charlie explained: “The brand has developed a complete system of pre- and post-waxing products, which makes the treatment more effective and gentler on the skin.”
Her studio’s one-client-at-a-time policy offers the kind of privacy and discretion that many customers appreciate, especially for intimate treatments. “Given the nature of what I do, you do build close personal relationships with clients, and having a separate room allows them the privacy to be open and feel safe. You’re not separated by just a curtain. It’s quiet, calm, and personal, and it makes a big difference” she added.
Privacy and flexibility were key for Charlie
When launching her business, Charlie sought premises that offered more than just four walls. They needed flexibility, privacy, and the ability to scale operations around family life. The Greenway Business Centre in Harlow ticked every box.
“High street rents were extortionate, and we didn’t want a shopfront. Greenway gave us a private, professional space with 24-hour access, ample parking, a friendly receptionist team, and no pressure to sit around between appointments,” Charlie said.
The flexible monthly licence offered by Capital Space gave her peace of mind as a new business owner. “It was perfect. If it didn’t work out, I wasn’t tied into a long contract. We’re quite lucky in that sense.”
With lift access, disabled facilities, and on-site reception services, the centre also provides a comfortable and accessible environment for Charlie’s diverse clientele. “Everything’s just easy. Even deliveries and guests are looked after. The Capital Space team is always helpful and quick to respond,” she said.
She has even been able to sublet some of the room to a close friend who owns a candle store. “I asked the Capital Space team if it was alright and they were very accommodating,” Charlie said, “They just said: ‘it’s your room, you can rent it, you can do what you want with it,’”
The joint space created room for both of their successes. “Since then, it’s been great” Charlie adds “She’s my longest and dearest friend, and I love having the company, but also our businesses are really complementary. The salon always smells amazing and we’ve both been able to gain new clients from one another. “
The future of Wax & Relax
For Charlie, success isn’t about constant expansion; it’s about staying true to what she loves. While she once offered a broader treatment menu alongside her mum, she’s now honed in on her specialism: waxing. “It’s my favourite thing to do. I don’t want to offer treatments for the sake of it. I want to be the best at what I love.”
While growth comes in the form an expanding client list, Charlie doesn’t see the need to move or expand physically. “The room is just right, and Greenway makes it so easy to do business.”
Charlie’s tips for beginner beauticians
Charlie is quick to recommend extra training to any beautician looking to specialise; especially in waxing. “NVQs give you the basics, but for intimate waxing, you need more. Specialist training makes all the difference,” she advised.
She also recommends getting experience in a salon before starting your own business. “It helps build structure and confidence. Once you’re ready, self-employment gives you freedom, especially if you’re juggling family life.”
Building a business on your own terms is possible – with the right support. Charlie’s journey shows how the right location, mindset and specialist skill can turn a personal passion into a thriving, professional business.
