Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Braun
Hi Jessica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I moved to Florida from Ohio in September 2004 during those hurricanes. I was 20 years old and came here with $50 and two suitcases. I never looked back.
In Ohio, I was working at a deli. I was so broke that I would take food from there just to have something to eat. My coworker at the time knew my struggles and she gave me a prepaid cell phone. It had about 300 minutes on it and she said to use it for emergencies.
This number kept calling and I finally answered it. They were obviously calling for her, but I decided to answer to let them know that it is no longer phone number. They were college recruiters that set up a booth at the high school. She had expressed interest in becoming a massage therapist.
I didn’t think I would ever go to school after high school. I hated school with a passion. After answering that phone call, they ran through the process and it got me excited. I didn’t want to live out my days in that small town where are you either worked in retail or a factory.
Knowing I didn’t have a dime to my name, I was concerned about how I would even qualify for any loans. My dad flat out refused to help me or sign for me. My mom was reluctant to sign because she didn’t want me to leave. I told her “if you don’t help me get out of this town, I will probably end up in jail or on drugs.” I know that was extreme, but it was a real assumption where we lived.
She signed the paperwork. 6 weeks later I was on an airplane for the first time leaving everyone and everything I ever knew behind.
It was terrifying, but I knew in my heart that I was destined for bigger things than Amish country Ohio.
I went through school, met some great people, worked at some great places.
I had my son at 31. At the time I was working at a stable place doing massage for personal injury. While it was stable, it was draining the life out of me. I couldn’t do it anymore. I took a pay cut and went and worked at a spa.
The spa was ran poorly and I could easily see that I was paying their bills since my schedule was full to the brim with repeat clients. Also during that time, I left my son’s father due to abuse.
I was stressed out. No family down here, didn’t know how I was going to pay bills, but I knew I couldn’t stay in that situation for myself or for my child.
I decided to go out on my own. Start my own business. I had $200 to my name.
I’m now 7 years in running my own business and it is thriving! I became a homeowner a year and a half ago. And while the ride has been up and down emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, I wouldn’t change anything.
I love the life I am creating. I love my business. My clients. My community.
And I admire the strength and resilience I have to get where I am today.
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 hasn’t always been a smooth road.
My mom passed away in 2010. I was 26 years old. During that time I was coping with alcohol and I got a DUI. It was embarrassing and just added to the fact that grieving that substantial loss sent me even deeper into depression. I had to use the bus for 2 years. It also cost a lot of money. Fines, probation, bus fare. It is terrible.
During the end of that time I met someone. And because of my desperation and depression I ignored red flags. I ended up pregnant. I thought things would get better. They didn’t. It was a very traumatic experience being in that relationship.
Being a first-time mom, leaving that relationship, and trying to build a better life for us definitely had it’s challenges.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a licensed massage therapist. I’ve been licensed since 2007.
All of my services are customized to my clients needs and goals. I have a very intuitive approach to each client.
I would say what sets me apart from other therapists is that I work intentionally, slow, and that I love what I do.
I offer therapeutic, deep tissue, relaxation, post-op lymphatic drainage, and prenatal massages. I also treat people who are in hospice care to provide them peace and relaxation during that transition.
My office is located at the Serenity Center in Oviedo.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love community and I love working with others in the community.
You can reach me at 407-683-1197. Or find me on Facebook at Jessica Braun, LMT
Pricing:
- 60 min massage $90
- 90 min massage $130
- 120 min massage $180
Contact Info:
