Michelle Vandeyacht

Licensed Massage Therapist, Licensed Aesthetician, Adjunct Aesthetics Instructor

I originally entered into the field of self-care (first as a massage therapist) in 2009 as a career change, the catalyst for which was the unexpected passing of my mother. During this extremely dark period of my life, massage quickly became my safe harbor - the only peace and respite I could get from the unfathomable permanence of the loss I was experiencing. This safe space was a lifeline out of my pit a grief, if only for one hour.

During this time, I had an epiphany: What if my mom’s death could lead to positive change for me? What did that look like? What if I could offer the level of personal care I received to others? It sounded like a really great day at the office. I immediately registered for massage school, attending during the day while I worked the night shift at my regular job. What appeared as an unconventional shift in career choice to outsiders made sense to me. I was still able to provide peace and service to others in my community, but I could do it on my terms. I could be the truest version of myself.  

I consciously use my cumulative life experiences to welcome each client with presence and purpose, hoping to make even a small improvement in their self-esteem. Using my skill and passion is one of the ways my mom’s death no longer feels as in vain.

The evolution of my practice into Body Philosophy, later receiving my Aesthetics License in 2013, was born from my desire to continue to be an approachable and relatable leader in the self-care and wellness industry in an elevated, holistic, professional environment. My personal philosophy is that everyone deserves access to serenity and health in a judgement-free environment, period.

I can do this best by curating a physical and energetic space in which to provide personal care services that is person-centered, clean, inclusive, and oozing authenticity.

The honest truth is that I can give the best care to others only when I truly love myself, including love for the vessel I have been given to inhabit for this lifetime. So Body Philosophy is also a nod to my own journey in learning to love a physical body that society has labeled “imperfect” for as long as I can remember. Self-love and self-care is the hardest work I have ever done. My practice has evolved alot through the years and Body Philosophy is now a waxing studio with one additonal amazing employee, Kendra. We both want to help you with your self-care and confidence!

In 2022, I became an adjunct instructor at Fox Valley Technical College in the Aesthetics Department and teach one or two classes per semester. I could not be more excited to share my years of experience, knowledge and love for this industry with up-and-coming aestheticians!

Got a body? Then you are worthy and deserving of self-care and wellness! Your body is welcome here.

Kendra Letourneaux

Licensed Aesthetician

My journey as an aesthetician officially started in May 2023 upon graduating and receiving my aesthetics license. During my time there, I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle, a kindred spirit who shares my passion for holistic health and wellness. Michelle welcomed me into her practice which is truly a welcoming and nurturing space for absolutely every single person. I knew from the start that I was home. Somewhere I was encouraged to be myself, where I could grow and thrive, somewhere that was a safe, inclusive space for all. 

My journey into aesthetics was deeply influenced by my personal experiences with health challenges. My body was changing in all sorts of unexpected ways, ways I did not want it to change. Medicine may have helped some of the symptoms but often had side effects that negatively impacted my skin. These struggles led me to step back and refocus my energy on natural medicine and internal healing. Through this transformative journey, I have gained a wealth of knowledge about natural remedies and holistic practices, and I am passionate about sharing this knowledge with others who are facing similar health issues.

My passion for natural medicine has blossomed into a love for gardening. During the summer months, you can find me in my garden, nurturing a variety of foods and herbal medicines for my family and myself. The garden has become a sanctuary for me, a place where I connect with nature and cultivate the ingredients that support our holistic lifestyle. In time, I hope to discover new ways of integrating these two passions to better serve my clients in restoring both inner and outer beauty. I am committed to continuing my journey of learning and growing, both in my profession and in my personal life, and I am excited to share this journey with my clients and my community.