So, What’s The Difference Between Boutique and Chain Waxing Salons?
July 31, 2025
You’ve most likely heard the term ‘boutique setting’ being used to describe many different types of establishments. However, you may not fully understand just what this means or why it’s a good thing. Our boutique setting is one of the unique attributes that sets us apart from chain waxing salons. This allows us to offer a unique, personalized experience for clients. Our boutique setting is just one of the many perks of choosing Waxi Taxi over a chain waxing salon. Now, you might be wondering, what’s the difference, and why is this important when choosing where to go? Our detailed breakdown of the difference between these salons will make you question why you haven’t been coming to Waxi Taxi all along.
What Is a Boutique Waxing Salon?
At Waxi Taxi, we understand that getting waxed is a very intimate experience. Many clients may feel awkward, embarrassed, or intimidated when attending their waxing appointment or undergoing a wax treatment. This is where the boutique setting comes in handy. A ‘boutique’ setting means that the experience is unique, more personalized, and curated. There are fewer clients in the building at a time, offering more privacy than other salons. Boutique establishments prioritize individuality, quality, and building strong relationships with customers. Many clients prefer this type of setting when getting a wax because it is less intimidating than other types of establishments.
What Makes Waxi Taxi A Boutique Salon?
The Waxi Taxi is a small business with just three locations across Northwest Indiana, including Crown Point, Chesterton, and Michigan City. We have a set number of employees at Waxi Taxi, many of whom work at one or more of our locations. This ensures that every time you schedule a waxing appointment, you will be familiar with your waxing specialist. Our salon’s private, boutique setting also ensures that there will never be more than one or two other clients in the building at a time, meaning your experience is even more discreet.
The Waxi Taxi Difference
Our salon was founded on personal connections and building strong relationships with our clients. They are the backbone of our small business, which is why we always put their experience first. Our staff of trained specialists is highly knowledgeable in their field, meaning they are able to wax any and every body type and almost every body part. They can also answer any questions clients may have, which helps alleviate the pressure or intimidation clients may feel when getting a waxing service done. Our staff always goes the extra mile to make clients feel comfortable.
The boutique setting also allows our staff to cater to clients' needs. The services offered at our salon are specialized, as opposed to other salons, where multiple services may be offered. We value quality over quantity; always using fresh equipment, quality wax, and our expert knowledge to provide the safest, most comfortable waxing experience possible.
Boutique Builds Community
The main reason owner and CEO Jeny Burkhart decided to establish The Waxi Taxi was the love and support she had received from clientele-turned-friends. After leaving her previous position to take care of her three toddlers, Jeny’s clients encouraged her to start her own business. Her skills as a waxing specialist were too valuable for clients to find anywhere else.
The relationship-first approach Jeny has instilled in The Waxi Taxi is evident the second you step in the door. Our staff welcomes clients with a warm reception and provides a friendly and comfortable atmosphere. It only makes sense that we provide clients with the best experience possible, seeing as they are the reason we went into business. This is also the reason we try to give back as much as possible, supporting many causes in the community, uplifting other small businesses, and always shopping locally.
Our boutique setting allows us to build stronger relationships with our customers and give them the unique, personal experience they deserve. To experience the Waxi Taxi difference, book an appointment
here
Here at Waxi Taxi, we strive to provide our clients with the most professional, hygienic, and discreet experience possible every time they come in for a service. This means that our team will go the extra mile to ensure that our clients are getting a better experience than they would anywhere else. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Waxi Taxi takes the extra step that sets us apart from other waxing salons. A Boutique Setting for Extra Privacy Getting a wax is an intimate experience. Whether you are public or private about getting a waxing service, our trained Waxing Specialists always put your privacy first. The Waxi Taxi salons are in a boutique setting, which means there will never be more than 1-2 other clients in the studio at a time. This ensures that our clients will have as much privacy as possible. Our Commitment to Cleanliness We are committed to providing our clients with the most hygienic experience possible. Our Waxing Specialists use a fresh pair of tweezers for each client to ensure there is no cross-contamination between clients. We also require our specialists to wear Nitrile gloves, which are disposed of between services. Our waxing rooms contain beds with soft, disposable bed coverings that are changed in between clients. Our team always takes extra precautions to ensure that our clients have a hygienic experience. An Inclusive, Safe Space for Everyone The Waxi Taxi is a proud ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. We have respect for all of our clients and any gender, pronouns, or sexuality. We do not tolerate any kind of discrimination or harassment towards our staff or clients. We prioritize providing a safe space for any client who may come through our doors. Community Engagement We are proud to be a local, woman-owned, family-oriented business, meaning that we prioritize being an upstanding member of our community and uplifting other businesses. Owner and CEO Jeny Burkhart is a member of five chambers across Northwest Indiana, including: Duneland, Michigan City, Crossroads, Crown Point, and Harbor County Chamber of Commerce. She takes pride in giving back to the community, whether she is uplifting other women-owned businesses, supporting organizations, or highlighting locally-owned businesses. Consistently Exceptional Service Our team of trained Waxing Specialists is dedicated to providing clients with the best experience possible. At the Waxi Taxi, our staff is adaptable, friendly, and inclusive, and puts their clients first. Our team will always accommodate the client to ensure they are receiving the best experience, whether the client wants to chat during their appointment or just needs a space to relax. At Waxi Taxi, the client comes first. The Waxi Taxi staff are professionals, providing the client with a hygienic, comfortable experience. They are trained in the art of waxing any body type and are able to wax almost all body parts. Our staff is able to answer any questions that clients may have, ensuring that the client is as comfortable as possible at all times. Visit Team Taxi and Feel the Difference! At Waxi Taxi, you will be able to feel the difference between our boutique waxing experience and other salons. We prioritize our clients and their safety, privacy, and hygiene. Our team is made up of trained professionals and will provide the most sanitary and inclusive experience possible. Visit one of our three locations in Michigan City, Chesterton, and Crown Point and feel the difference! Book Online
What could possibly be a better combination than beauty, boudoir, and Brazilians? Amy Paris, an award-winning, Northwest Indiana-based photographer, is hosting the second round of the Forty Over Forty Campaign, in which she photographs forty women over the age of forty. At Waxi Taxi, we believe in sharing the message of the importance of body positivity and inclusivity at any age. As a woman-owned business ourselves, we understand the importance of supporting other women-owned businesses. We wanted to sweeten the deal for the ladies, so we offered up our services! Amy is a long-time supporter of Waxi Taxi and a friend. So, in honor of the event, we are offering a special promotion at Waxi Taxi Crown Point for women who participate. All About Amy Paris Amy Paris is an award-winning photographer based in Highland, Indiana. She is known for her innate ability to empower women and capture their most authentic selves. Amy is passionate about encouraging women to embrace not only their confidence but also their beauty. She specializes in boudoir photography that offers a life-changing experience for women. Her style follows a warm and guiding approach, allowing clients to feel celebrated, confident, and beautiful. Paris believes that you deserve to be photographed exactly as you are. What Is The Forty Over Forty Campaign? More Than Just A Photoshoot The Forty Over Forty Campaign is about more than taking a pretty picture of clients. It is a celebration of women, allowing them to look and feel beautiful and confident. Amy Paris describes the event as a “movement” that encourages women to step into their light, share their stories, and celebrate who they are. The photography session is customizable and tailored to each client. Clients are able to choose between a beauty session with soft glam, timeless portraits, and a touch of elegance, a branding session that shows professional power and personal confidence, a boudoir session that is moody, sultry, and playful, or a mix of all three. Clients are in complete control of what photos are shared. Each participant must agree to share at least two photos. If clients prefer to keep their boudoir photos private, a few fully-clothed portraits can be arranged at the beginning of the session. The Magazine And Gala After the campaign is finished, Amy Paris creates a printed magazine featuring each of the women. The magazine will include a picture of the women and their stories. The Gala is an elegant event for the women that takes place after the photoshoot. The women are encouraged to bring an adult female friend of their choice to the Gala as their guest. The best part? The Gala benefits Girls On The Run Northwest Indiana, an organization dedicated to helping young girls in the community build confidence, connection, and strength. Waxi Taxi Takes Part We believe body positivity and inclusivity are something that should be celebrated. In honor of this, our very own Jeny Burkhart will be participating in the event! We also have a very special promotion for the lucky ladies who participate. We are offering all ladies who participate in this round of the Forty Over Forty Campaign a $25.00 gift card at Waxi Taxi Crown Point to prepare for their shoot! Those who sign up and note Waxi Taxi in the “How did you hear about us?” section will be eligible to win one of three full-body waxing packages valued at over $150 each, also redeemable in Crown Point. How Do I Get Involved? We are so excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with Amy Paris Photography for this event. Waxi Taxi truly believes in the importance of uplifting women of all ages and encouraging them to embrace their most authentic selves. We hope to see many clients at our location in Crown Point who have decided to participate in this experience, and can’t wait to share this empowering moment with our community to celebrate self-confidence, connection, and self-care together. To participate in this incredible event, visit Amy’s website here: https://amyparisphotography.com/40-over-40/#tve-jump-19462d3da66 To learn more about this event, click here: https://amyparisphotography.com/40-over-40/
Hey Besties! We have some very exciting news here at Waxi Taxi. We’re taking our waxing services on the road and to your college! Whether you have a date party coming up and want to look your best, or need a fun sisterhood event to bond with your sorority sisters, Waxi Taxi will come to you. Our hair removal services are professional, affordable, and right at your door! What Is The Pop-Up? Waxi Taxi is bringing our services out of the studio and to your school. Grab a group of girlfriends (or guy-friends) and experience the feeling of smooth, silky skin! What better way to bond than getting waxed together? We will host a pop-up, weekend waxing service as your next event. We offer a variety of services such as Brazilians, Brows, Bikini, Lips, Underarms, and more! The best part? The host will receive a complimentary service of their choice! Who Are We? Waxi Taxi is a woman-owned waxing service located in Northwest Indiana with three locations. Despite originally being hired as a makeup artist in a salon, owner and CEO Jeny Burkhart found herself doing facials, pedicures, and waxes. Jeny made it her mission to become a skillful waxer. She worked in salons for twelve years before she was faced with a new challenge: balancing three toddlers and work. The clientele she had been building a relationship with over the past twelve years told Jeny they would go elsewhere for facials, pedicures, and massages, but asked her if there was any way she could still wax them. Jeny made the bold decision to begin waxing clients in their houses. The waxing sessions turned into waxing parties, where her clients would invite their friends over for book clubs or girls’ nights, all while receiving a professional wax. Demand for Jeny’s business grew, and a client-turned-friend suggested Jeny start her own business, and even had a name for it. Thus, The Waxi Taxi was born. Now, the Waxi Taxi is a mostly stationary business with three brick-and-mortar locations across Northwest Indiana. The exception? The Waxi Taxi is back on the road and visiting colleges all across Indiana! Why? We know that college students have a busy schedule, leaving little to no time for self-care. There are so many social events throughout the school year, like date parties, formals, Halloween, and Spring Break, in which students require hair removal services but have limited options for a solution. Shaving leaves skin with stubble, uneven or patchy hair, and regrowth within a day or two. The Waxi Taxi provides a quick, affordable, and longer-term hair removal solution. This is beneficial for events that last more than one day, or for clients who want to have smooth, silky skin without the extra time and effort. Things To Know This may be a single-day, two-day, or Friday-Sunday event, depending on the size of the group. We provide the majority of our regular services at our pop-up events, although some services may not be available. At Waxi Taxi, we are LGBTQ+ friendly and respect all of our clients’ sexual orientations and/or pronouns. Pricing will depend on the size of your group. We are so excited to bring our services to your school. Remember, when pesky hairs pop up, so do we! To book our team of trained waxing specialists for your next sisterhood event with Waxi Taxi, click here: https://www.thewaxitaxi.com/pop-up-events
You scheduled an appointment, resisted the urge to shave, and planned your entire schedule around getting your wax. So, now that your legs are soft, your eyebrows are perfect, and your bikini line is stubble-free, where will you show off your wax? Our location in Michigan City is right in the heart of downtown, and with so many fun things to do in the summer, it’s hard to know where to start. Don’t stress, gorgeous. Waxi Taxi has your summer itinerary planned, so you’re ready to show off your wax (after you wait 12-24 hours, of course) wherever you may go! Start With A Coffee Hotter Than Our Wax Whether you prefer your coffee hot or iced, grabbing a coffee is the first stop on the Perfect Summer Day Itinerary. Coffee is just the energy boost you’ll need for all the fun that’s in store. Pair your beverage with a breakfast bagel for the best results! Try heading to Fluid Coffee Roasters, just a two-minute walk away from our studio in Michigan City. Their Lemon Love Cold Brew is so summery, you’ll feel like you’re on vacation. Order their BEC Bagel to go with; the Gochujang cream cheese adds a fun twist to this classic bagel. Shop Til You Drop (Or Until The Next Stop) They always say that if you put your money into your accessories, you can create a million different looks. If you've already invested in your best accessories when you got waxed, why not pick up a few more items to complete your new look? There are so many fun shops downtown with beachy accessories, thrifty finds, and summer-certified clothing. Try visiting Good News Vintage for curated vintage clothing, plants, art, and more. Then stop by Line Mullins Group Interior Boutique for unique gifts, clothing, jewelry, soaps, and more. Finally, head into Darling Boutique for truly darling finds, such as trendy blouses, shorts, dresses, skirts, and more. Beaches, Brunches, and Markets, Oh My! You are now halfway through the perfect summer day in Michigan City, but don’t worry, there are still so many other fun activities on the horizon. After you’ve worked up an appetite from all the summer shopping, head over to Leeds Public House for their infamous brunch menu! This Fourth and Franklin favorite has one of the most expansive brunch menus downtown. Our next mid-day stop is at the Farmed and Forged Farmer’s Market. This market is a fun summer activity that happens every Saturday from eight to noon. Stop by to check out the local vendors and maybe pick up a few items while you’re there. The next stop is Washington Park Beach. The beach is the perfect place to flaunt your soft summer skin, whether you’re tanning on the sand, swimming in the lake, or going for a walk on the pier. Dinner And Drinks After spending your afternoon swimming and tanning in the heat, the only thing that can cool you off is a fun summer cocktail, and maybe a few appetizers and entrees to go with it. Call a few friends and invite them downtown for dinner and drinks. However, beware. Your friends won’t be able to take their eyes off your brand-new wax. Try stopping at Café Farina’s for one of their cocktails, like the Hugo. Add the Fried Calamari to start and finish with one of their delicious pastas. This spot is the perfect place to have dinner and a cocktail in the summertime. Their restaurant features outdoor seating, so you can soak in the summer sun while enjoying your meal. Sweet Treat What Perfect Summer Day Itinerary would be complete without a sweet treat to finish it off? Your last stop is at Bubbles Ice Cream Parlor, a 1950s-style ice cream shop with classic ice cream flavors, pies, sundaes, and cheesecake. This ice cream parlor is a Michigan City favorite and a must-visit on the itinerary. Another classic ice cream shop is Frosty Boy, a small-but-mighty ice cream stand in Michigan City. If you can’t decide what toppings to get, try one of their signature spinners: a combination of their ice cream and toppings blended together. The Banana Split Spinner screams summertime! Come Back Soon! Michigan City has so many other fun things to do in the summertime. Whether you follow this itinerary to a tee or find some of your own stops on the way, don’t forget to schedule your next waxing appointment at Waxi Taxi and spend the day in Michigan City again soon.
As a woman-owned business, we understand and value the importance of uplifting other women-owned businesses. There are so many great businesses near us with a wide variety of goods and services. Part of being a small business owner is helping uplift other small businesses near you to help them thrive and build a strong community. That being said, here are some wonderfully women-owned businesses that we are shining a spotlight on! Chesterton Evexia Salt Cave and Spa This women-owned business puts its focus on well-being and relaxation. Allow us to introduce you to Evexia, a salt cave and spa made from 20,000 pounds of pink Himalayan salt. The wellness spa opened in 2020 after Kimberly Franklin experienced the benefits of Halotherapy on her own. When I first started out as a waxing specialist at House of Bianco in 1995, I met Kim’s sister, Jen. She was getting her eyebrows ready for a trip to Las Vegas, where, as if it were destiny, she met her now-husband, David. Together, Jen, Kim, and David have been Waxi Taxi’s longest cheerleaders, always showing ongoing support for our business. Now, we’re returning the favor! Want to learn more about booking an appointment at Evexia’s Salt Cave? Click here to find more information: https://evexiasaltcave.net/services/ Nottingham Embroidery Nottingham Embroidery is personalizing life one stitch at a time! The owner, Nicole, has a passion for bringing her customers’ ideas to life by adding a timeless and unique touch to anything from bags and hats to women’s shirts and sweatshirts. From what started as a small room in her home to a brick-and-mortar location, Nicole is an absolute expert in all things embroidery! Learn more about personalizing YOUR life by clicking here: https://nottinghamembroidery.com/ Michigan City Sacred Dunes Stephanie Gordon is the founder, owner, and medical director of Sacred Dunes. Her journey began when she found relief from debilitating migraines through acupuncture. I have known Stephanie since she completed acupuncture training! Starting in a small room, to her first brick-and-mortar, to finally opening her own clinic, Stephanie uses a holistic approach that merges Eastern and Western medical practices, allowing her patients to experience relief for everyday ailments. We even have a shared family member, as my daughter, Camille, works at her clinic in Admin and Compliance. To find out more about holistic medicine and acupuncture at Sacred Dunes, click here: https://www.sacredduneshealth.com/ Abigail Hayden Interiors & Design Abigail Hayden owns a professional design firm in Michigan City. Although she has over 23 years of experience in residential interiors, working in Indianapolis, Chicago, and Detroit, she has just opened her own design firm in Michigan City, Indiana! She is dedicated to bringing every client’s vision to life and has a unique ability to bring out their personality in the space she is designing. In need of a design professional to bring your vision to life? Read more about Abigail Hayden’s design firm by clicking here: https://www.abigailhaydeninteriordesign.com/ Crown Point Nordikreations Phyllis Kalajian is the owner of Nordikreations, a shop dedicated to creating handcrafted Scandinavian jewelry. She began crafting jewelry in her free time in 2006 to raise money for her Swedish club at the time. Phyllis worked in an office for almost thirty years, but eventually gave it up to pursue her passion full-time. Her shop is a neighbor of ours in the Courthouse, providing interesting and unique Nordic items. She provided period jewelry that was featured on the show Vikings , and will also be featured on the PBS show, John McGivern’s Main Streets . To see unique Nordic jewelry and keep up with Nordikreations, click this link to their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nordikreations The Crystal Lady This business is owned by Lori A. La Frey and is a staple in Northwest Indiana. This shop specializes in its wide variety of crystals from around the world. Their crystals are real, and they are dedicated to never having heat-treated, synthetic, or dyed crystals. Established in 2017, they sell a variety of items, including Sage, Palo Santo, Incense, Candles, Tarot and Oracle cards, and more. They are right down the street from the courthouse! To read all about The Crystal Lady, click here: https://www.facebook.com/CrystalLadyofCP/ The Importance of Community We are so proud to not only be a women-owned business, but also to uplift and support the other women-owned businesses around us. We encourage you to read all about these businesses and even give them a visit when you have the chance! Remember that shopping small has a big impact.
We’ve been in this business for a long time. Waxi Taxi started out of passion; for me, it is a labor of love. From working in a salon to waxing clients in their homes and finally opening a studio, it’s not hard to see why so many clients prefer waxing. It can be intimidating and overwhelming to determine the best hair removal method for you, which may leave you asking: Why should I consider waxing over shaving? Well, we have ten reasons why you should make the switch and ditch the razors. 1. Longevity: For most individuals, waxing results typically last three to six weeks. When shaving, hair typically grows back within one to two days. This is because during a waxing service, the hair is removed down to the root, as opposed to using a razor, where hair is only removed from the surface. 2. Better Results: Waxing is an investment, meaning that your current sessions are setting your future self up for success. When you wax consistently, the hair being removed will grow back finer and sparser than if you were to shave. 3. Great for All Areas Razors are great for a quick fix, but they have their limitations, meaning they can only reach so many areas. Waxing is beneficial because it can be used on any area of the body, large or small. Your waxing specialist is able to remove hair from the small areas of your body, such as the eyebrows, upper lip, chin, ears, forehead, hairline, sideburns, cheeks, nostrils, and more. They are also able to wax the larger areas of your body, such as the bikini area, legs, arms, stomach, back, and more. A full list of services can be found on our website. 4. Doubles as an Exfoliant One of the many benefits of waxing is that it offers a gentle exfoliation of the skin. When an area of your body is waxed, a small layer of dead skin is also removed. This leaves you with that soft, fresh feeling that shaving doesn’t. 5. No Daily-Maintenance Waxing offers the convenience of throwing on your favorite bathing suit or a pair of shorts quickly in the summertime without having to worry about pesky hairs. Shaving requires daily maintenance to ensure stubble isn’t popping back up. 6. Smoother, Softer Skin Waxing allows for gentle exfoliation of the skin as well as minimal regrowth between appointments, leaving your skin smoother and softer for longer. When shaving, hair grows back quickly and does not exfoliate as well as waxing does. 7. Less Waste It is recommended to replace your razor blade every five to ten shaves. This is because razors can build up bacteria and rust when left in the shower. They also become dull the more you use them, leaving you with uneven and patchy hair. Waxing is done in one quick session that removes hair down to the root. 8. Fewer Ingrowns Waxing is beneficial in many ways, but leaving the area with fewer ingrown hairs is one of them. Shaving can leave hairs with sharp tips that curl back and grow into the skin. Waxing removes hairs from the root, which will lead to finer, sparser regrowth with consistent sessions. This means a reduced chance of ingrown hairs. 9. No Cuts and Nicks When shaving, it is easy for your razor to become dull, which can lead to cuts and nicks on the skin. If razors are left in the shower, they may become rusty or covered in bacteria, which leads to a higher risk of infection. 10. No Razor Burn! Perhaps one of the most beneficial reasons to wax instead of shave is that there is no razor burn. Razor burn is caused by the razor blade irritating the skin, which leads to redness and itching. In conclusion, waxing not only feels great and looks great, but it also has great benefits for your skin. The results of waxing are longer-lasting and require less maintenance between hair removal sessions. If you'd like to learn more about waxing or book an appointment, click the Schedule an Appointment Online button at the top of this page.
June may be coming to a close, but Pride is something we celebrate all year long. Waxi Taxi is a proud ally of the LGBTQIA+ and also very active in the community of Northwest Indiana. As June wraps up, we wanted to share and highlight some LGBTQIA+ organizations in Northwest Indiana. In this blog post, you will find organizations that promote affirming communities, experiences, and inclusivity. These organizations have dedicated themselves to educating and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community. PFLAG About The Organization and Their Mission PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization that is dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community and the people who love them. They have two locations in Northwest Indiana, including Michigan City and Valparaiso. The organization also has eight other locations in Indiana, hundreds of chapters, and more than 325,000 members. They were founded in 1973 by a mother and her son who identify as gay. Always leading with love, the organization is dedicated to creating an equitable and inclusive world for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. A Fair Chance Morty Manford, who helped found the Gay Activists Alliance and has since become the president, has been protesting for gay rights since 1972. While participating in a form of direct activism called a ‘zap’, Morty was assaulted by Michael Maye, former president of New York City’s Uniformed Firefighters Association. The event drew media coverage to anti-LGBTQIA+ violence and inspired Morty’s mother to write a letter to the New York Post about the incident that had happened. She titled it, “A Fair Chance.” Jeanne, his mother, then participated in a march with her son, inspiring the parents of gay children to join in on the fight for equality. A year later, PFLAG was born. The organization now offers chapters, virtual meetings, and resources to support the community. They also participate in advocacy work, opposing harmful bills and providing guidance for those who want to help. LGBTQ of Porter County About The Organization and Their Mission The LGBTQ of Porter County organization was founded in 2020 to serve the LGBTQIA+ community by providing connections, conversations, and opportunities for engagement. They dedicate themselves to advocacy work and educating the broader community. Their mission is to create an affirming community for adults and youth in the LGBTQIA+ community by advocating and supporting them. Their vision is to build a community in which people’s differences are seen as strengths. Connecting Communities The organization’s website offers a wide variety of resources, including text lines, mental health centers, and social networking communities. They also have programs that aim to educate and provide support for the community. One of these programs is PRISM, a group for LGBTQIA+ youth ages 12-18. The program is intended to provide support, education, and a safe space. The LGBTQ Center About The Organization and Their Mission The LGBTQ Center is Northern Indiana's only Center dedicated to the promotion of LGBTQIA+ experiences and inclusivity, and is dedicated to creating a community where every individual is valued, respected and empowered. The organization has been around since 2004. They started off as a bookstore and coffee shop, but changed after they received dozens of emails and phone calls looking for an LGBTQIA+ friendly space. They were renamed in 2005, becoming The GLBT Resource Center of Michiana. They began showcasing local artists, hosting youth groups, and offering a comprehensive list of resources to the community. In 2016, they became the LGBTQ Center. All Are Welcome The LGBTQ Center offers a variety of Social and Support Groups for different ages, sexualities, genders, hobbies, and more. The support groups were created in order to celebrate diversity by uplifting the community in a safe and affirming space. They are open to everyone regardless of gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or romantic orientation and are led by trained employees. The groups aim to provide opportunities for the community to connect, access resources, and gain support. They also offer countless resources on their website. Pride at Waxi Taxi Waxi Taxi is so proud to be an ally for the LGBTQIA+ community. Hair removal is an intimate process, and it is important for our customers to know that Waxi Taxi is a safe space for everybody. Although Pride Month may be coming to an end, the support from Waxi Taxi goes all year long. Happy Pride!
Meet Erin at Waxi Taxi in Michigan City and Chesterton! Joining Waxi Taxi in 2023, Erin is a trained waxing specialist at our Chesterton and Michigan City locations. Shortly after graduating from Chesterton High School in 2021, she enrolled in Don Roberts School of Hair Design, where she specialized in Esthetics. However, her waxing journey began long before that. Erin prioritizes making her clients feel happy and confident, and her thoughtful and adaptable personality makes it easy to see why they love her! We sat down with Erin for a short interview so you can get to know all about her, how she interacts with clients, and her work. About Erin What was your journey to becoming a waxing specialist? Was there a defining moment that confirmed this was your calling? “My journey to waxing started at sixteen when I started waxing myself and fell in love with the smooth feeling and not having to deal with the awful razor burn. I had never thought about pursuing it as a career till the end of high school when trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I wouldn’t say there was a defining moment, just that I loved how satisfying it is and it brought me joy to feel like I could help others in their struggle with other forms of hair removal.” Outside of your professional life, what hobbies or interests might surprise your clients to learn about you? “Outside of waxing, you can find me 3-5 times a week at Sweat 219 doing Hot Pilates. It has become my favorite thing to jump-start my day! In the summer on the weekends, you can typically find me at a motocross track supporting my fiancé racing his dirt bike! You can also find me relaxing at home watching tons of reality TV shows. My favorite show is Love Island, so if you’re also watching, let’s debrief about it together!” If you weren’t a waxing specialist, what alternative career path might you have pursued? “When figuring out what I wanted to do after high school, I originally was going to become a flight attendant! The idea of constantly traveling has always been something I wanted. It ultimately didn’t work logistically for me at the time, but I love travel and plan on traveling as much as I can in the future.” How would your closest friends describe your personality, and how do those traits benefit you as a waxing specialist? “I would say I have a very adaptable personality to whatever the situation may be. As a waxing specialist, it’s very important to read the room. For some clients, I’m very bubbly and talkative, and some I notice may need a quiet, non-talking appointment to just relax.” Client Connections What’s the most meaningful client relationship you’ve developed, and how has it impacted your approach to your work? “I have so many meaningful client relationships, I can’t pick just one! My clients are the reason I love what I do. You meet so many amazing people with different stories and paths.” What’s a common client interaction that always makes your day brighter? “A common client interaction is what has happened since I saw them last. It is so exciting to hear and feel like a part of my clients’ new beginnings and life changes.” What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from a challenging client experience? “I feel like the most valuable lesson when working with clients is never take anything to heart. Everyone has bad days. Things happen that we can’t change, but just be understanding and keep on moving.” What aspect of waxing do you feel most passionate about that clients might not expect? “Waxing can be a very intimate service, so I am very passionate about making the client feel comfortable and leave feeling confident!” How do your personal values influence how you run your business and interact with clients? “My personal values influence my interactions with clients by being kind and understanding to every person. Clients use this time for so many different things, whether that be venting, relaxing, or getting away from work or kids. You never know what’s going on, so it’s important to just be there for them. My job is to always make a client feel comfortable and leave feeling refreshed and happy!”
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.
"Is there so much love in the world that we can afford to discriminate against any kind of love?" –Mychal F. Judge on the church's stance against LGBTQ people, unknown. It’s June, which means it’s the time of year when we celebrate Pride month. The LGBTQIA+ community has a long and robust history. In honor of celebrating Pride Month this June, this blog is dedicated to the stories of some of the community’s most recognized heroes, how they fought for their rights, and providing a brief history, because the LGBTQIA+ community has always been here. In addition to this, we will also elaborate on why access to beauty care is so important for the LGBTQIA+ community. Activists, Heroes, and Public Figures Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera Marsha P. Johnson, a drag queen, activist, and co-founder of S.T.A.R., was one of the many LGBTQIA+ individuals at the Stonewall Uprising, a series of protests and riots followed by a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City. She infamously threw a shot glass and exclaimed, “I got my civil rights!” Johnson, along with her close friend Sylvia Rivera, co-founded the S.T.A.R (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries) house, where they provided food, clothing, family, and a safe space for young drag queens, trans women, and queer youth. Sylvia Rivera, a drag queen, activist, and co-founder of S.T.A.R., was a participant in the Stonewall Uprising and a fearless activist for gay and trans-specific legislation. She fought for the “Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act”, “New York City Transgender Rights Bill”, and for a trans-inclusive “New York State Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act”. She also spoke against organizations that undermined transgender people, people of color, and drag queens. She often felt as though drag queens were overlooked in the fight for equality. Mark Bingham and Mychal F. Judge, O.F.M. Mark Bingham, a public relations executive and gay rugby league player, was aboard flight United 93, where four terrorists hijacked the airplane’s cockpit. Bingham was aware of the two other planes that had been deliberately crashed into the World Trade Center and was captured on audio with other passengers planning to retake the plane. The terrorists intentionally crashed the aircraft during the struggle. The sacrifice of Mark and the passengers likely saved the lives of thousands. Mychal F. Judge, O.F.M., was an openly gay Friar. With his overwhelming compassion for humanity, he was dedicated to finding homes for immigrants and unhoused people, working to change religious doctrine on the LGBTQIA+ community, and praying with AIDS patients. He was serving as an FDNY Chaplain on September 11th, 2001, when he tragically passed away while praying with and caring for victims in the lobby of One World Trade Center. He is known as ‘The Saint of 9/11’. Leonard Matlovich and Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben “When I was in the military, they gave me a medal for killing two men and a discharge for loving one.” - A Gay Vietnam Veteran, Leonard Matlovich’s epitaph in Washington, DC, 1988 Leonard Matlovich was a Vietnam War veteran and race relations instructor. He was the first serviceman in the US military to come out as gay and was featured on the cover of a 1975 Time Magazine issue, a historic moment. In addition to being the first time an LGBTQIA+ person was featured on the cover of a national magazine, the piece in which he was featured challenged the military ban on gay soldiers. He was forced to resign from his position in the US military but was honorably discharged due to his accomplishments. He went on to become an activist for the LGBTQIA+ community and for HIV/AIDS. Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben was a Major General, writer, and Chief of Staff to President George Washington. He is known as the father of the U.S. military, and it is widely thought that without his leadership, America might still be the British Colonies. Baron von Steuben, whose previous career in Prussia had ended due to his sexual orientation, was highly accredited and vouched for by Benjamin Franklin and George Washington. The president felt as though his private life was irrelevant to his military qualifications. A Notable Event in LGBTQIA+ History The Great March On October 11th, 1987, at the National Mall in Washington, DC, history was made. Steve Ault and Joyce Hunter, a year earlier, had planned to hold an event for their successful 1979 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. With prejudice against the community at an all-time high, the pair felt as though a new march could bring the movement to a national level. Thus, the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights was held. The march contained many acts of civil disobedience, mass weddings, and the reveal of the AIDS Quilt. The march also brought attention to the bisexual community due to its massive national outreach and size. Robert Eichberg and Jean O'Leary established October 11th as National Coming Out Day to commemorate the event. October also became LGBT History Month soon after. This was a major event in the community’s history. Why Gender Affirming Beauty Care is Important Access to beauty care for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community is a vital and prominent part of their journey. Gender-affirming aesthetics are non-minimal or minimally invasive procedures that help individuals align their outward appearance with their internal identity. Things such as clothing, makeup, hair care, and hair removal help alleviate gender dysphoria. Individuals who identify as transgender or are gender-nonconforming may seek gender affirming beauty care. Why We Celebrate Pride At Waxi Taxi, Pride is celebrated throughout the year, not just for a month. In intimate settings such as a waxing studio, providing a safe environment for patrons of any sex, gender, or sexual orientation is a priority. We are proud to be an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, and we believe that waxing, beauty, and self-care are for everybody. Our commitment to inclusivity is something we aim to achieve all year round, not just in June. Happy Pride Month!