Izelle Louw, CEO of Mommy Wellness, has shared the remarkable story of her journey from a student at the Isa Carstens Academy to a trailblazing entrepreneur in the wellness industry. With a passion for holistic care and a deep understanding of the needs of mothers, Louw has turned her experiences into a thriving business that caters to women at every stage of motherhood.
Louw's career began after she graduated from Isa Carstens Academy, known for its expert training in health and skincare therapy.
Drawn to the industry by her desire to help clients feel better, Louw started working as a therapist on cruise ships. Over four years, she climbed the ranks to management, honing her skills in client care and operational excellence.
After her time at sea, Louw returned to her roots, taking on a teaching role at Isa Carstens Academy for four years. This period not only allowed her to give back to the institution that shaped her career but also solidified her commitment to continuous learning and development.
The pivotal moment in Louw's entrepreneurial journey came when she was pregnant and struggled to find a wellness centre that offered safe treatments for expectant mothers.
I couldn't believe I was the only pregnant woman feeling this way…I knew there had to be a way to safely provide these services."
This realisation sparked the creation of Mommy Wellness in 2012, with the first branch opening in Durbanville, Cape Town.
The business quickly expanded, becoming a franchise with multiple branches across South Africa. Today, there are branches in Claremont, Durban North, Sandton, Sea Point and Somerset West.
Although international branches in Bahrain had to close due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Louw is optimistic about the future, with plans to open four new branches in the coming months.
Mommy Wellness has distinguished itself by offering a comprehensive range of services for women, from pregnancy through to the "empty nest" phase of life.
Louw's innovative approach includes specialised treatments for the whole family. This includes Mommy Wellness Treatments, Daddy Wellness Treatments, Urban Teen Treatments and Babe, Tot & Teen Treatments.
The business also provides a nanny service, allowing mothers to enjoy their time at the spa without worrying about childcare.
Louw attributes her success to her unwavering passion and dedication to the industry.
If you've got a passion for this industry, your clients will pick it up.
She also stressed the importance of ongoing education in a rapidly evolving field, ensuring that her team is always up to date with the latest techniques and treatments.
Looking ahead, Louw's vision for Mommy Wellness is clear: to become the leader in maternal care, expanding both within South Africa and internationally.
