LGBTQIA+ History and Gender Affirming Aesthetics

At Waxi Taxi, we know the importance of community. The best part about having three locations across Northwest Indiana is being part of our region’s thriving business community and getting to know many other small business owners, as well as learning about their missions. A community is incomplete without supporting, uplifting, and guiding one another. With that being said, all eyes are on you, neighbors! This blog will be dedicated to shining the spotlight on some of our business besties, our neighbors from all three of our locations. Chesterton Pieces of Jayde Located south of us on Calumet Road, Pieces of Jayde is a jewelry and art store in Chesterton, Indiana. Beginning over ten years ago, founder Jayde McAloon started out selling her jewelry at artisan markets, art fairs, and Renaissance Festivals. She left her full-time teaching position in order to pursue her passion for metaphysical magic and art. She was able to open her first store in March of 2021, which features unique handmade art from local makers and artists. The store prioritizes creating a welcoming community for all customers and is an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community throughout the year. She also finds time to be one of the coordinators of Chesterton’s ever-popular, Third Fridays! Learn more about Pieces of Jayde here: https://www.piecesofjayde.com/about-us Chesterton Toys Sitting across from our Chesterton location, Chesterton Toys truly has a passion for bringing joy to children and toy lovers alike. They take pride in discovering unique playthings. The business even sells locally made jewelry that the owner handcrafts. Chesterton Toys offers a wide variety of toys, ranging from modern classics like Funko Pops to nostalgic favorites like oldie-but-goodie puzzles and board games. They truly have something for everyone. Zach and Tracy could not be better people and neighbors! Learn more about Chesterton Toys here: https://www.chestertontoys.com/ Michigan City Static Age Record Store Another of our business besties, Static Age, is a record store located in downtown Michigan City and right next to us! The store features a wide variety of music on vinyl records. They also sell jewelry, gifts, and art. The owners are kind and personable people who have a passion for music and vinyl records. Check them out next time you visit us! Learn more about Static Age here: https://staticagemc.square.site/ UP4MOVEMENT Another one of our neighbors, located right next door to us in downtown Michigan City, is UP4MOVEMENT, a boutique workout studio offering cycling classes, personal training, and more. Their female-led staff offer unique and professional exercise guidance for clients. They prioritize creating an individual and motivating workout atmosphere by providing a clean, cozy, and comfortable ambience. Looking for an amazing group of motivating ladies? This is the workout space for you! Learn more about UP4MOVEMENT here: https://www.up4movement.com/ Crown Point Mr. Cheezycakes This craft dessert store is located across the street from our Crown Point studio. They offer a variety of desserts and even have outdoor seating for you to enjoy your treat with friends and family. Mr. Cheezycakes has something to satisfy every sweet tooth, and is your go-to spot for an after-dinner or mid-day sweet treat. The store is known for its delicious and creamy cheesecakes, which you can enjoy in a cake or by the slice in their cozy and inviting store. NOTE: We accept tips in the form of Cheezycakes 🤤 Learn more about Mr. Cheezycakes here: https://www.facebook.com/Mr.CheezyCakes/ Piper’s Pip Squeak Boutique This business bestie is right down the hall from our Crown Point store, specializing in selling unique clothing, gifts, and other treasures for kids. The store that began as a joyful family project has now become a thriving adventure with a handpicked selection of finds for children of all ages. They dedicate themselves to ensuring each piece is chosen with care and offering a curated selection of children’s clothing in a boutique store. Annie is a tremendous supporter of her fellow small businesses. Definitely take a minute and stop at her shop! Learn more about Piper’s Pip Squeak Boutique here: http://piperspipsqueakboutique.com/ The Value of Community We are grateful to be part of so many tightly knit communities that are constantly supporting and guiding one another. When we band together, we all thrive. Helping local businesses isn’t just about the purchases you make, but also the support you are able to give to each other. Building a strong network and fostering relationships is the key to a thriving, dynamic community. These businesses are more than just our neighbors; they are partners in helping entrepreneurship thrive.

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/

This Pride Month, we want to take a moment to celebrate something we believe deeply: beauty and self-care are for everyone, regardless of gender identity or expression. Beauty is genderless.  At Waxi Taxi, we've always known that the desire to feel confident, comfortable, and authentically yourself can transcend traditional gender boundaries. Whether you're seeking smooth skin for a special occasion, maintaining your preferred aesthetic, or simply treating yourself to some well-deserved self-care, your reasons are valid and your presence is valued at Waxi Taxi. Breaking Down Barriers, One Service at a Time For too long, certain beauty treatments have been unnecessarily categorized by gender. But here's the truth: waxing, skincare, and personal grooming are simply tools for self-expression, self-care, and confidence. They're not "for men" or "for women" – they're for anyone who wants to feel their best in their own skin. We see clients of all gender identities who choose waxing for countless personal reasons. Some want to feel more confident in their clothing choices. Others find it aligns with their gender expression. Many simply prefer the smooth, clean feeling it provides. Every reason is the right reason when it comes to your body and your choices. We welcome everyone at Waxi Taxi. Creating a Safe Space for All Pride Month serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing journey toward acceptance and equality. Waxi Taxi is committed to being a space where everyone feels safe, respected, and celebrated. This means: Respectful language – We use the names and pronouns you provide, always. Judgment-free service – Your choices about your body are yours alone. Professional expertise – Regardless of your gender identity, you receive the same high-quality, skilled service. Comfortable environment – We strive to make every client feel at ease from the moment they walk in. Your Authentic Self Deserves Care Self-care isn't selfish, it's essential. Taking time to care for yourself, to feel confident in your skin, and to express yourself authentically are acts of self-love that deserve to be honored. Whether you're exploring new ways to express your gender identity, maintaining your current routine, or trying something completely different, we're here to support you. All Are Welcome Here This Pride Month and every month, our message is simple: You belong here. Your identity is valid, your choices are respected, and your business is genuinely appreciated. We're honored to be part of your self-care journey, whatever it may look like for you. Beauty is genderless. Confidence is universal. And everyone deserves to feel comfortable and celebrated in their own skin. Thank you to all our clients who help create an inclusive, welcoming community. Together, we're proving that beauty truly has no boundaries. Happy Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈

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.