Beauty Is Genderless: Celebrating Pride and Self-Expression

Waxi Taxi opened our Michigan City location nine years ago on Franklin Street. We are often asked why we chose to put a location in Michigan City; the answer was simple. This isn't just where we work, it's where we belong. This special city has our hearts, and it is easy to see why! A Thriving Independent Business Scene Michigan City has an incredible independent business community that's unlike anywhere else in Northwest Indiana. Walking down Franklin Street or through our historic downtown, you'll find locally-owned restaurants serving cuisine from around the world, unique boutiques offering one-of-a-kind finds, and artisan shops showcasing local craftsmanship. We're not competing with big box stores here; we're collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs who share our passion for our community. There's something so special about a city where every business has a story and every owner knows your name. We are so much more than a collection of locally owned businesses; we are a community. Community Events That Bring Us Together The heart of Michigan City beats strongest during our amazing community events. Pride Fest fills our hearts with celebration, love, and acceptance, showing the world that our city embraces everyone. When winter arrives, our Holiday Lights Parade transforms downtown into a wonderland, with families lining the streets and local businesses creating magical floats. These aren't just events; they're the moments that weave our community together and remind us why we chose to plant our roots here. From summer art fairs to farmers markets, from lakefront concerts to seasonal festivals, there's always something happening that brings neighbors together and draws visitors who fall in love with Michigan City. Natural Beauty That Inspires Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, the lake provides a backdrop that never grows old. Stepping outside our business, we can often smell the lake, less than a mile away. Washington Park, with its stunning lighthouse, is within walking distance from our home on Franklin Street. Our beaches offer peaceful morning walks and breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant colors. A Vibrant Chamber Community The Michigan City Chamber of Commerce is more than just another business organization; it's the beating heart of our entrepreneurial community. Our chamber brings together business owners who genuinely care about each other's success. Monthly networking events feel more like family gatherings, and when challenges arise, chamber members rally together with resources, referrals, and support. Room to Grow, Reasons to Stay Michigan City gives small businesses space to breathe and grow. We’d like to think that Waxi Taxi is contributing to a community renaissance that honors our past while embracing an exciting future.  This is more than another Waxi Taxi location to us. Michigan City is our home, our inspiration, and our community. With its independent spirit, natural beauty, welcoming community, and supportive business environment, we wouldn't want to be anywhere else.

This weekend, you'll find us at Michigan City Pride Fest, not just as a sponsor, but as passionate champions of love, diversity, and inclusion. We're thrilled to support this incredible celebration that brings our community together, where love is love in the heart of Michigan City. But our commitment goes beyond sponsorship. We're showing up because we believe beauty is genderless, love is universal, and every person deserves to express their authentic self. Why We're Here At Waxi Taxi, inclusion isn't just a value we talk about; it's who we are and what we live by as a company every day. We're proud to stand loud and proud with the LGBTQ+ community, not just during Pride month, but every single day. See You There! Come find us at the festival this weekend! Whether you're enjoying the live music, exploring Michigan City, or soaking in those positive vibes, we'll be there celebrating alongside you. Let's make memories, forge connections, and spread pride together in our beautiful city. Because when our community thrives, we all shine brighter. Find out more about the Michigan City Pride Fest here: https://michigancitypride.com/

At Waxi Taxi, we believe that great businesses don't exist in isolation; they thrive as part of our vibrant community, filled with passionate entrepreneurs who support and inspire one another. Today, we want to shine a spotlight on some of our incredible neighbors across our three Northwest Indiana locations who make our communities such special places to work and visit. Chesterton: Where Wellness and Artistry Meet Ebb & Flow : Located right next door to our Chesterton location is a brand-new yoga studio that opened just a couple of months ago. I have known Gina, Jim, and Chrissy for many years, and I am thrilled to see them collaborate to offer such a cool yoga studio that offers more than amazing yoga. This yoga space is so special. Ebb & Flow creates a welcoming environment that goes beyond traditional practice, offering a holistic approach to wellness. Visit Their Website: https://www.ebbflow.yoga/ Willow: Also adjoining our Chesterton location is Willow, a unique collaborative space that showcases the best of local artistry. JLP Decorative Arts and Bella Node collaborated to create this artistic haven, which also features The Big Spoon Shoppe and Rooted Links, alongside several other local artisans. Walking into Willow feels like discovering a treasure trove of handcrafted goods and artistic inspiration; it's the perfect place to find something truly special. Visit Their Website: https://the-willow-shop-llc.square.site/ Michigan City: Masters of Their Craft Channie's Lashes: Located within the same building as our Michigan City Waxi Taxi location, Channie's Lashes represents the epitome of precision and artistry. She is a master of her craft, with an eye for detail. I have sent many clients her way, as she does some of the best lashes I have seen. I even tried a half set myself for the first time, and I loved them! Our services complement each other beautifully, creating a perfect one-stop destination for clients seeking to enhance their natural beauty. Visit Their Website: https://channieslashes.glossgenius.com/ Good News Vintage: Amy Bowman with Good News Vintage has been a staple in the Art District longer than Waxi Taxi has called Michigan City home. She has an amazing sense of style and can pair vintage pieces together like no other. Need something unique? GNV is where I would go to find it! Amy's curated collection of vintage treasures and her impeccable styling sense make Good News Vintage a must-visit destination for anyone seeking distinctive pieces with character and history. Visit Their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/goodnewsvintagemc/ Crown Point: Courthouse Square Charm Ramen District: Located in the historic courthouse, Ramen District brings authentic flavors and a killer bar situation to Crown Point. Their incredible selection of ramen and other dishes creates the perfect spot for a satisfying meal, whether you're grabbing lunch between appointments or enjoying a night out. Visit Their Website: https://ramendistrict.com/ Local 219: Also residing in the courthouse, Local 219 holds a special place in our hearts. Mark featured us last summer and is a genuine supporter of all the local small businesses in the area, committed to ensuring everyone knows about them. Having champions like Mark who actively promote and support local businesses makes our entire community stronger.  Visit Their Instagram Channel: https://www.instagram.com/local219/ The Power of Community What makes these neighboring businesses so special isn't just their individual excellence; it's how they contribute to the fabric of our communities. From the wellness-focused environment in Chesterton to the artistic hub in Michigan City's Art District and the historic charm of Crown Point's courthouse square, each location offers its own unique character enhanced by the businesses that call it home. These neighbors aren't just businesses we happen to be near; they're partners in creating vibrant, supportive communities where local entrepreneurship can flourish. When you visit Waxi Taxi at any of our locations, we encourage you to explore these amazing neighboring businesses and experience firsthand the passion and dedication that make our local business community so special. Supporting local isn't just about individual transactions; it's about building connections, fostering community, and celebrating the entrepreneurs who make our region such a dynamic place to live, work, and visit.

Earlier this spring, we welcomed Siobhan to the Waxi Taxi team at our Michigan City location. Siobhan is a trained esthetician and waxing specialist. She brings her love of helping others into all she does, especially with the art of waxing as an act of self-care. We sat down with Siobhan for a quick interview so you can get to know her better and find out what an incredible person she is and why she is such a wonderful addition to our team.  What was your journey to becoming a waxing specialist, and was there a defining moment that confirmed this was your calling? My journey began with my own personal struggle in trying to find the appropriate ways to tend to my unwanted body hair and skin issues. I began waxing myself and friends and family while exploring several other career paths, but nothing filled my heart like tending to others and helping them find peace in their bodies through self-care. Outside of your professional life, what hobbies or interests might surprise your clients to learn about you? I love hot yoga! The hotter the better! What's the most meaningful client relationship you've developed, and how has it impacted your approach to your work? I am my mother’s esthetician, and while it may seem obvious, it is a powerful feeling to be able to tend to my creator. She embodies all my ancestors. I see my grandmother in her bones and feel blessed to be in such a sacred space. She reminds me that we all deserve a tender and kind touch. If you weren't a waxing specialist, what alternative career path might you have pursued? Before I dove into esthetics, I worked with kiddos of all shapes and sizes spanning the spectrum of special needs. What's a common client interaction that always makes your day brighter? It brightens my day to bring laughter into my clients’ lives. Sometimes deep truths are found on the waxing table, and sometimes light-hearted whimsy is felt! But knowing I provided a space of safety and curiosity makes me feel good. What's a waxing technique or approach you've personally developed that you feel is uniquely yours? I tend to clients’ skin with appropriate pressure, utilize breathing techniques, and ensure the skin is prepared and proceeded in such a way that, while we’re pulling hair from happily rooted follicles, the pain is minimal and my distraction game is strong! How do your personal values influence how you run your business and interact with clients? I believe we are ALL equal. That belief permeates every aspect of my approach to service and human interaction. What's the most valuable lesson you've learned from a challenging client experience? Challenging clients offer a window into their unique journey and a reminder that we are all juggling different levels of stress. What aspect of waxing do you feel most passionate about that clients might not expect? What I can do in the treatment room is great! But aftercare is an important part of skin health and happiness! Exfoliation and moisture are crucial to maximize the benefits of your waxing service. How would your closest friends describe your personality, and how do those traits benefit you as a waxing specialist? My friends would describe me as a good listener and colorful cosmic character. I carry a calm that helps quiet the chaotic minds of new clients and the mystery of what waxing will feel like, and return clients so they can find peace and clarity during our appointments.

One of the things that I’ve learned in my years in business is that your business is only as strong as your network. Over the years, as we’ve grown and expanded, our business network has grown. Business acquaintances have become friends, and networks have grown. As a woman-owned business, I am passionate about supporting other women-owned businesses. Today, I want to highlight the power of the network and highlight just a few of the women-owned businesses across Northwest Indiana working every day to make our community a better place to live, work, and play. This blog post will be the first in a series where I highlight fellow women-owned businesses across Northwest Indiana. Chesterton: The Red Cup Café and Deli: This beloved Chesterton staple is a true friend of Waxi Taxi. I first met owner Laura when our daughters attended preschool together, more than 23 years ago. Together, our businesses have grown and supported each other. The Red Cup Café and Deli is an anchor in downtown Chesterton. I cannot tell you how many business meetings I’ve been to at Red Cup. Laura’s café is a warm and welcoming spot, offering a variety of coffees, sandwiches, and baked goods. If you haven’t had the opportunity to stop by, do it! You won’t be disappointed. Learn More about Red Cup Café & Deli: https://www.facebook.com/p/Red-Cup-Cafe-100063648787870/ Chelle’s Boutique & Garage: Owner Machelle Wagner has created the most unique shop in Chesterton! This adorable shop has become my go-to place for unique clothing pieces. They know my style and fit every time! I love this store, and I think you will too. This Chesterton treasure offers clothing and gifts that are truly one of a kind. This gem in Chesterton has been in business since 2012. Machelle has put so much time and effort into bringing the best to Chesterton, and it shines through each time you walk in the door of her shop. Visit Chelle’s Boutique & Garage Website: https://chellesonline.com/ Michigan City: South Shore Public Relations: I met the owner of South Shore Public Relations, Jackie Thomas, through the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce. South Shore Public Relations leads with heart, and Jackie consistently gives back to the community through volunteer work, sponsorships, and pro bono efforts. Her firm specializes in providing comprehensive communications solutions under one roof for businesses and nonprofits. This integrated marketing and PR firm is a unique gem in our community. I promise you, you’ve seen their work in the community. ;) Learn More About South Shore Public Relations: https://southshorepr.com/ JOYRide: It’s hard not to love this woman-owned business, whose entire goal is to spread joy and support the community! Owner Rose Tejeda opened JOYRide last year in Michigan City, and it has lived up to its name. This adorable pedicab service has been an instant hit with locals and tourists alike, and it's easy to see why. Rose is as innovative and outgoing as she is kind and generous. Earlier this year, Rose launched the Insider’s Guide to Michigan City Events Calendar, full of fun things to do in Michigan City. If that isn’t giving back to the community, I don’t know what is. We love seeing her pedicabs zip up and down Franklin! They open for the 2025 season this Saturday, and we are so excited to welcome them back. Learn More About JOYRide: https://joyridemc.com/ Crown Point: Core Pilates is located in the historic Crown Point Courthouse. Kelly and her team have created an incredible space for Pilates, yoga, massage, and more! We credit the owner, Kelly, with enabling us to secure our ideal spot, enabling Waxi Taxi to launch in our dream location on the square in Crown Point. Core Pilates is a reformer-based Pilates studio that opened in 2018. We love our Pilates neighbors! Learn More About Core Pilates Crown Point: https://corecrownpoint.com/about Northwest Indiana has an incredible independent business community, but within that community is a collection of women-owned businesses changing our communities for the better. From serving hot food that nourishes the soul, clothing that makes you feel like yourself, telling your story, spreading joy, or making you feel great about yourself, these businesses I’ve highlighted today are incredible assets to our community. Waxi Taxi is so honored to call them all friends. We believe that women support women, and I hope I’ve been able to introduce you to some new women-owned businesses you may not have known about before today. Stay tuned for our next installment in this series, which will highlight more women-owned businesses.

We get questions daily about how to get the most out of your appointment, achieve the best outcome, and prolong the life of your silky, smooth skin. So, we thought we’d put together this basic guide for you. Proper preparation and aftercare are key to a smooth, comfortable waxing experience. Whether you're a waxing veteran or booking your first appointment, these essential before and after care tips will help you achieve the best results and keep your skin happy and glowing. Before Your Waxing Appointment 1-2 Days Before Exfoliate the area : Gentle exfoliation 24-48 hours before your appointment helps remove dead skin cells and can prevent ingrown hairs. However, avoid exfoliating the day of your waxing. Hydrate your skin : Well-moisturized skin (but not on the day of waxing) facilitates hair removal. Plus, it makes your skin glow! Let your hair grow . For optimal results, Hair should be about ¼ inch long (about the length of a grain of rice), about 10-14 days since your last shave. Too short, and the wax has a difficult gripping it; too long, and it may cause more discomfort. Let that grain of rice be your guide. Chemical exfoliants: Avoid (especially face!) for 1-2 weeks prior to appointment. The Day of Your Appointment Skip the lotion : Come with clean, product-free skin in waxing areas. Take a pain reliever : If you're sensitive, an over-the-counter pain reliever taken 30 minutes before can help reduce discomfort. Wear loose clothing : Tight clothing will most likely irritate freshly waxed skin, so opt for breathable, loose-fitting attire. Avoid caffeine and alcohol : Both can make your skin more sensitive by increasing blood flow to the surface. After Your Waxing Appointment Immediately After No touching : Resist touching the freshly waxed area with unwashed hands. Cool it down : Apply a cool compress if you experience redness or irritation. Skip the workout : Avoid intense exercise, swimming, saunas, and hot showers for 24 hours after waxing. Loose clothing : Continue wearing loose-fitting clothes for the rest of the day. Epsom Salt Bath: these are KEY! This will aid in reducing irritation and inflammation Moisturize: Use a light oil like grapeseed or coconut oil, not lotion! The Next Few Days Exfoliate gently : After 48 hours, resume gentle exfoliation to prevent ingrown hairs. Moisturize regularly : Keep skin hydrated with alcohol-free moisturizers. Avoid sun exposure . Freshly waxed skin is more susceptible to UV damage. If you must be in the sun, use a high-SPF sunscreen. No harsh products : For a few days, avoid using products with fragrances, alcohol, or retinol on the waxed area. Preventing Ingrown Hairs Ingrown hairs are a common concern after waxing. Here's how to minimize them: Regular exfoliation (about every other shower) Use of ingrown hair products containing salicylic acid or tea tree oil Wearing loose clothing that doesn't rub against the skin Staying hydrated and moisturized When to Reschedule Your Appointment Sometimes it's better to postpone your waxing session. Consider rescheduling if: You have a sunburn in the area to be waxed You're experiencing a skin condition flare-up You're on certain medications that increase skin sensitivity During the first few days of your period (when sensitivity is higher) The Long-Term Benefits With regular waxing: Hair growth typically becomes finer and sparser Your skin will adjust to the process, often resulting in less redness and irritation The time between necessary appointments may increase  Remember, everyone's skin reacts differently to waxing. What works for one person might not work for another. Listen to your skin and adjust your care routine accordingly. Ready for your smoothest skin ever? Follow these guidelines, and don't hesitate to ask your waxing specialist for personalized recommendations tailored to your specific skin needs!

Chesterton is a tight-knit community nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan. From the shoreline to the farm field, this was the first community that Waxi Taxi called home. Our first location was above a store on Main Street. After years of being on the road, we strategically chose to call Chesterton home for so many reasons. After more than ten years in business as a brick-and-mortar salon, we still call this special community home, just in a bigger location, but still on Main Street. An Engaged Community: From the Duneland Chamber to the Exchange Club, even the school systems, the Chesterton community, also known as the Duneland Community, values civic engagement. If you’ve followed Waxi Taxi on social media or frequently read our blog, you’ll know that civic engagement is a core value at Waxi Taxi! Our founder and our employees volunteer regularly in the Duneland community for a wide variety of causes.  Vibrant Independent Business Landscape: If you have the opportunity to visit downtown Chesterton any day of the week, you’ll see firsthand many vibrant and thriving independent businesses in our downtown. From restaurants, boutiques, a bookstore, spas, and salons, Chesterton is a community that supports independent businesses! At the heart of this is the Duneland Chamber, an economic powerhouse and champion of small business. Located in a historic depot, they’ve championed small businesses’ causes and events year-round. One of the most notable is The Chesterton European Market, which features 100+ small businesses every Saturday from the first Saturday in May through the last Saturday in October. On the Doorstep of a National Park: For those who have lived and played along the Lake Michigan shoreline, this has always been our community’s beach. In 2019, part of the Indiana Dunes State Park was designated as a National Park. This put our little community on the map in a big way, but also meant that we’ve been able to showcase our natural beauty as a community. The influx of visitors this new designation has brought has had an economic boost for many Chesterton businesses. As the world passes through Chesterton, take in our lakeshore, they are awed by the natural beauty and welcomed by local businesses. We are pleased to be part of the business community in this unique location. A Community that Gathers: Whether it is Chesterton’s 3rd Friday evening, where local businesses stay open, offer specials, and welcome and encourage the community to come out and shop, play, and mingle, to the Hometown Holiday’s market and parade, Chesterton regularly comes together as a community to support local businesses while sharing friendship and togetherness. Chesterton will always be a very special place for Waxi Taxi, it was our first home by choice and our current home by heart. We love this special community that has embraced Waxi Taxi and our fellow independent businesses. If you’ve not had the opportunity to visit, be sure to step out and come visit our community.

Waxi Taxi Highlights the Shirley Heinze Land Trust: Protecting Northwest Indiana's Natural Treasures Giving back to our community has always been a core value at Waxi Taxi. Since day one, Jeny Burkhart has not only instilled this in our company but also lives this mission daily to give back to the community. Last weekend, the Shirley Heinze Land Trust held its annual Spring Benefit in Valparaiso, and Jeny was happy to support this event. As a long-time supporter of the organization, current Advisory Council Member, and former Board Member, she always takes an active role in this impactful group in Northwest Indiana. This year, Jeny prepared custom-made centerpieces for over 60 tables to bring nature and ambience to this year’s benefit. We wanted to take the opportunity to highlight the Shirley Heinze Land Trust. If you’re not familiar with this organization, allow us to introduce you. For over 40 years, the Shirley Heinze Land Trust has quietly protected forests, wetlands, prairies, and other natural areas across Northwest Indiana. A Woman on A Mission: The organization is named after Dr. Shirley Heinze, a psychologist and resident of Ogden Dunes, Indiana. Dr. Heinze devoted her free time to enjoying and studying nature, actively participating in the fight to save the Indiana Dunes, and encouraging others to do the same. Sadly, Dr. Heinze died in 1978 at the age of 51 from lymphoma. After her death, her longtime friends Robert and Bette Lou Seidner honored her memory by creating a conservation organization. They donated $30,000 to start the Shirley Heinze Land Trust in 1981. This began an organization that would grow to protect thousands of acres of natural land. What Does the Shirley Heinze Land Trust Do? The organization's mission is clear: to preserve and restore natural lands and waters in northwestern Indiana and to engage people in nature and conservation. Over the years, the trust has grown significantly. Approximately 3,400 acres across Lake, Porter, LaPorte, St. Joseph, Marshall, and Starke counties are permanently protected today. The trust doesn't just buy land and leave it alone. Many of the preserves were severely degraded when first acquired, and the Heinze Trust has engaged in a wide range of restoration activities to restore them to ecological viability. This means they work hard to bring damaged natural areas back to health. Open to All: One of the best things about the Shirley Heinze Land Trust is that most of their nature preserves are open to the public to explore and enjoy. This gives people a chance to experience nature firsthand and learn about the importance of conservation. The trust also runs many educational programs. As a Northwest Indiana Environmental Education partnership partner, they facilitate field trips and provide environmental education programming to over 3,000 3rd-5th grade students. They also host guided hikes, workshops, and volunteer opportunities yearly. Looking Forward As Northwest Indiana continues to develop, the work of organizations like the Shirley Heinze Land Trust becomes even more critical. By protecting natural areas now, they ensure that future generations can enjoy and learn from these special places. In the words of the trust itself, Dr. Heinze's "life and legacy are a quiet inspiration for us – that one person can have a lasting impact." Through the continued efforts of the Shirley Heinze Land Trust, that impact grows with each acre protected and each person who discovers the natural wonders of Northwest Indiana. You can visit their website here to learn more.

We've been in business for a long time, and we’ve heard just about every waxing misconception out there, and there are a LOT of waxing myths! Whether you're a waxing veteran or considering your first appointment, we want to take the opportunity to separate fact from fiction. Let's dive into some common waxing myths and reveal the smooth truth! Myth #1: Waxing is Only for the Young  TRUTH: Beauty is ageless! Waxing is for everyone who wants to feel good in their skin. We've served clients from 18 to 98; each deserves to feel their best. That's why we're so excited about Waxi Taxi on the Road, our new retirement community services - everyone deserves access to quality beauty treatments! Myth #2: Waxing Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker TRUTH: This is perhaps the most persistent beauty myth of all time, and we hear it a lot! Waxing actually does the opposite. Since it removes hair from the root, repeated waxing can lead to finer, sparser hair growth over time. Many of our long-term clients report their hair grows back lighter and less noticeable with regular treatments. Myth #3: Waxing is Too Painful TRUTH: While we won't lie, there can be some discomfort, but our team is trained to make your waxing session as comfortable as possible. Our professional-grade waxes and specialized tools, which are sanitized with each client, also help mitigate pain. Plus, your body adapts over time, making each session more comfortable than the last. Many clients describe it as a quick "pinch" that's over before you know it! Myth #4: You Need Long Hair for Effective Waxing TRUTH: While you do need some hair growth for the wax to grip onto, we're talking about much less than you might think. For most body areas, hair only needs to be about 1/4 inch long (about the size of a grain of rice). Coming in too shaggy can actually make the process more uncomfortable! If you aren’t sure about how to approach this, feel free to reach out to us before your appointment. We’re always happy to help make your Waxi Taxi waxing experience easy and comfortable. Myth #5: At-Home Waxing Kits Work Just as Well TRUTH: We love DIY spirit, and not to stray into controversial territory here, but there's a reason professional waxing services exist! Our professional waxing specialists have detailed training and education, better-quality products, and can reach areas you can't see yourself. Plus, we ensure proper sanitation and use of techniques to prevent ingrown hairs and skin irritation. Save the DIY for crafts, not for hair removal! Myth #6: Waxing Is Just About Vanity TRUTH: While looking good is undoubtedly a benefit, many clients choose waxing for practical reasons, too. Reduced body hair means less sweating, better hygiene in certain areas of the body, and improved athletic performance for some active clients. Many of our senior clients appreciate the convenience of not having to shave as frequently, especially if they have mobility challenges. Myth #7: Waxing Causes Wrinkles and Sagging Skin TRUTH: When performed correctly by professionals (like us!), waxing doesn't cause skin damage or premature aging. We use techniques that minimize pulling on delicate skin and follow up with soothing, nourishing products that leave your skin better than we found it! Are you ready to experience the truth about professional waxing for yourself? We'd love to see you at one of our three locations in Chesterton, Michigan City, and Crown Point! Drop a comment below with any other waxing myths you've heard – we might feature them in Part 2 of this series!