Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicola Deck.
Hi Nicola, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Sure! I actually had a whole career before I discovered esthetics/permanent make-up. In 2002, I was working in a corporate job when I was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer (adenoid cystic carcinoma). The following year, I lost my father to cancer. That season of life made me pause and reevaluate what truly mattered—and it ultimately led me to pursue a career that would bring me joy and purpose. In 2004, I took a leap of faith, left the corporate world behind, and enrolled in esthetics school. And I’ve never looked back.
From the moment I entered the world of esthetics, I knew I had found my calling. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from incredible mentors who helped shape my skills and fuel my passion for this work. Rather than rushing into business ownership, I chose to take my time—refining my techniques, growing intentionally, and truly mastering my craft. When I discovered the art of brow design, everything truly clicked.
In 2015, I opened Symmetry Brow Bar & Skin Studio here in Austin as a solo endeavor. By 2019, I expanded into a larger space with a growing team and a loyal client base.
Now, nearly two decades into this career, I’m excited to step into the next chapter—training and mentoring the next generation of brow artists. Sharing what I’ve learned and helping others build meaningful careers in this field feels like a natural (and fulfilling) evolution of the work I love so much.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
While I’ve been fortunate to have a fulfilling and steady career overall, the road hasn’t been without its bumps. Because I took my time building my skills and preparing before launching Symmetry, I felt confident stepping into business ownership—but nothing could’ve prepared me for what 2020 had in store.
In December 2019, I had just expanded into a larger studio and was pregnant with my second child. I hired my first employees in January 2020, and almost immediately after, I was put on hospitalized bedrest. My daughter arrived early in February—just as the world began shutting down due to COVID. We had to close our doors for THREE months, which was both scary and surreal as a new team leader.
The six months that followed were some of the hardest of my life, but we weathered the storm. We not only survived—we came out stronger. That chapter taught me so much about adaptability, resilience, and the power of community. It was a tough time, but it deepened my gratitude for my team, my family and, of course, the clients who stood by us.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Symmetry Brow Bar & Skin Studio?
Symmetry Brow Bar & Skin Studio is such a special place, and I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve built. We were the first independent brow-focused esthetic studio in Austin, and that pioneering spirit is still at the heart of everything we do.
Our specialty is brow mapping—an artful technique where we use each client’s unique facial proportions to design the most flattering brow shape for them. We’re also known for our soft, brow laminations that enhance the natural brow in a subtle, beautiful way.
What really sets us apart is that we are estheticians first. We offer a carefully curated menu of relaxing, yet results-driven skincare services. From Hydrafacial to DMK Skin Revision and BioRePeel, we’re passionate about helping our clients feel confident in their skin.
We also offer full-body waxing, including fast, thorough, and comfortable Brazilian waxing. And we specialize in permanent makeup. Our PMU brow services—like soft ombré powder brows and the highly sought-after nano brows—are designed to look incredibly natural, enhancing without overpowering. One of our newest offerings is freckle tattooing, which adds ultra-natural, sun-kissed freckles for a youthful glow without the sun damage.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the trust we’ve earned and the welcoming, elevated space we’ve created. Symmetry is about more than brows or skincare—it’s about helping people feel confident, seen, and celebrated. I want readers to know that when you walk through our doors, you’re in the hands of passionate professionals who truly care about their craft and your experience.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I wouldn’t necessarily call myself a risk-taker in the traditional sense—I’m definitely someone who takes calculated risks. I put a lot of thought, research, and planning into most decisions I make in my business. That said, I also believe that just opening a business is a risk in itself! Every step—whether it’s expanding, hiring, adding new services, or even walking away from situations that no longer serve your growth—comes with uncertainty.
One of my favorite pieces of advice came from a sweet friend who shared something her father would say to her “No risk it, no biscuit.” That really stuck with me. You can’t experience growth or reward without stepping outside your comfort zone from time to time. So while I may not jump without a parachute, I’m not afraid to take bold steps when I believe in the vision.
At the end of the day, thoughtful risk has played a huge role in helping me create a business I love, and I encourage others to embrace it too—especially when it’s aligned with your passion and purpose.
Pricing:
- Symmetry Signature Brow Shaping begins at $60
- HydraFacials start at $180
- Brazilian Waxing starts at $55
- Nano Brows $725
- Brow Training Ranges from $500-$2500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://symmetrybrowsaustin.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/symmetrybrowbar_llc
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/symmetrybrowsaustin
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSymmetryBrowMethod
Image Credits
Personal image taken by Drew Elaine Photography. All other images were taken by Nicola Deck.
