Beloved Old Town Laser Spa Closes After 20 Years of Service
Izalia Hair Removal & Rejuvenation Laser Spa, a prominent small business in Old Town, has unfortunately closed its doors after nearly two decades of operation. The surprise closure comes on the heels of the business being named a Top Medspa by NoVa Magazine just last month. Founder Annette Antonelli cited ongoing financial struggles as the reason behind the decision.
The spa's business model relied on clients purchasing initial treatments at full price and then adhering to scheduled sessions. However, over time, many customers failed to keep their appointments but still expected free follow-up treatments. This pattern led to mounting losses, with Antonelli admitting that the small business had been running at a deficit for 'quite a while'.
In a farewell email, she expressed sadness over the closure and thanked loyal customers for their support over the years. The spa's website and social media accounts have since been taken down, marking the end of its operations.
Antonelli has hinted at future plans, though nothing is confirmed yet. She hopes to include laser treatments in whatever comes next and stay involved in emerging industry trends. For now, she is exploring possible collaborations in the wellness sector but will take time before making any decisions.
The shutdown leaves a gap in Old Town's beauty and wellness scene. Antonelli's next steps remain uncertain, but her focus on innovation suggests she may return to the industry in some form. The closure serves as a reminder of how shifting customer habits can impact long-standing local small business ideas.
