TOTAL DIVA
Interview with Andrea Scahill-Latimer, Owner and operator
How long have you been in business?
Total Diva turned 6 years old as of June 30, 2022. It sounds like a cliche, but it really does feel like it was yesterday much of the time. And other days, of course, after over two decades in the beauty industry it feels like I’ve never done anything else.
How many employees do you have?
Total Diva generally has 10 employees, a mix of full and part time. I say generally because there’s always a little flux in numbers with placement students coming and going and we generally try to make sure they all get some paid shifts while they’re with us. Half of the staff have been here since day one.
Is this a family business – chat about the family/traditions/vision etc?
Fam biz. Well, I have been in it since I was 17 so it certainly feels like a family business. We also work amongst a team that's like family, and treat them as such.
What is one of your favorite products you offer? Favourite service … we love it all! From waxing to hair to lashes … they are all our favs. We’re known as the best in town for Brazilian waxes.
What made you choose to get into the business you are in?
I fell into the industry as a high school co-op placement and 27 years later, I’m still here. It’s the best thing that could have happened to me! I can’t imagine where my life would be without Total Diva, its staff and clients.
What do you love about Kingston
The food. The food. The food! On Friday nights you’ll find me — and often some of the Total Diva team — at Mesa Fresca or tango Nuevo sharing a bite and a drink.
What do you love most about your industry?
The feeling of helping people feel and be their best selves is what I love the most!
