Today we’d like to introduce you to Brooke Oaks.
Hi Brooke, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am Brooke Oaks, your professional hype woman. Owner and operator of Desert Bloom Wax & Beauty and cocreator of Riot Dance Fitness. I am a recovering people pleaser and overachiever. I always wanted to be in the beauty industry, but I was told when I was young it wasn’t a “real job”, So I started in the medical field.
I was a high school honor student, I had my CNA, EMT, and most of my nursing prerequisites done by the time I graduated, on top of the dance company. As a dancer, I always struggled with my weight and body image, I actually had weight-loss surgery during my senior year of high school. At 19 years old, I was married to my high school sweetheart, working in the ER at Primary Children’s Hospital, and had lost 100+ pounds. Living the dream.
By the time I turned 21 I Was:
– Divorced,
– Fired from my job,
– Quit nursing school,
– Pregnant with my boyfriend (now husband) of 2 months
and waiting tables through beauty school.
– Oof.
By baby number 2 I had gained back that 100+ pounds and I started seeing a therapist for some scary postpartum depression. I had no idea this was a turning point for my entire life, or that I had MUCH deeper trauma that would’ve probably impacted my daughters detrimentally.
I started making small mindset changes in my life, that led to massive growth. I moved my way up through the large waxing corporation I worked for, and when I hit the ceiling, opened my own business. I began working on my health as well and began attending dance fitness classes at the gym. Then certified in multiple formats and began teaching my own classes.
Seeing others find confidence at the gym, the same way I had started to, was one of the most moving things I have ever experienced. I learned how to use my own insecurities to build connections and trust with people and help them feel safe and seen. I consciously gave my energy to the person in the back row. I cheered so loudly for anyone I saw to step out of their comfort zone. I wore the damn crop top despite my own body image issues.
Using this mindset, not only in dance fitness but in my own beauty business was a game changer. Every single person desires to be loved for who they truly are, to belong, and to feel confident in their own skin. I believe that creating a safe space for this growth, no matter what industry you may be in, is the real secret. And it starts within the leaders. When we are confident in the things that make us unique, there is no competition with anyone else. Connections built on this foundation are unwavering.
It may seem silly, that shaking my ass in a dance fitness class or getting a Brazilian wax is where it all began for me.
But once we awaken the badass within ourselves, and do the little things that might feel intimidating, that’s where the growth begins. Wear the red lipstick, speak your mind, get up on a stage and dance your heart out, dress in what makes you feel sexy, and own it. Be so authentically yourself, that everyone around you feels safe to do the same.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Haha. If healing is a smooth road, you’re probably doing something wrong.
Balance your closest loved ones don’t deserve the leftovers. Taking a look in the mirror, recognizing my own toxic traits, and working on them daily is humbling, to say the least. I know have done way more than my fair share of self-sabotage, trying to fit in, and comparing myself to others. Digging up buried trauma to find the why behind behaviors and setting boundaries are probably some of the scariest things I’ve ever done. But knowing and loving yourself first is the only way to allow anyone else to love the most authentic you.
This wasn’t easy for a lot of relationships in my life. My husband and I separated a few years ago. Today, the man that used to say “I don’t need a therapist” tells everyone they need it. I am very proud of his growth, and our daughters have an example of a healthy marriage. Other relationships ended altogether. But every single painful ending brought knowledge and growth that never would have been possible without it. The creation of the Riot Dance Fitness format is just one example of this.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Master Esthetician and Instructor, I specialize in body waxing for all body types. I’ve been waxing for over 10 years and have trained waxers all over the country. I believe that if someone is going to be all up in ya business, it better be someone you trust and can laugh with.
I also teach dance fitness, my classes are centered around confidence and community. The exercise was a punishment for me for way too long. We have created a space where you not only have permission but are encouraged to feel yourself. Yes, you. You get to feel sexy, powerful, and sassy and cheer for new friends that are doing the same. Basically, these fitness classes are like going to the club with your besties.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Riot Dance Fitness is set to launch in fall 2022, we cannot wait to (officially) disrupt your workout.
Get a taste of VASA fitness
Mondays 6:30 PM @ Sandy
Wednesdays 7:30 PM @ Van Winkle
Saturdays 11:30 AM @ Van Winkle
Pricing:
- Brazilian Wax $60
- Brow Wax & Tint $40
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.desertbloomwax.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/blatantly.brooke?r=nametag
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brooke.allgood.9
- Other: Www.riotdancefitness.com
Image Credits
Sarah McClure, and Sascha Milara
