Kim Bassette is the Owner of Glamour and Grace Day Spa, Licensed Esthetician, Makeup Artist and Lash Technician. She is this week’s #PeopleofWilmDE. Read her story below.
“I’m Kim Bassette, and Wilmington has been my home for as long as I can remember. I’ve spent over 15 years working in this vibrant city, and it’s been an incredible journey. My life in Wilmington began when my parents moved here from Pennsylvania, and I was born in this charming Delaware city. Growing up, I found myself drawn to the opportunities that Wilmington had to offer. While I lived in a suburban area in Delaware, I soon realized that the city was where my professional path would truly thrive.
I started my career in a Wilmington bank, but my passion led me in a different direction. I decided to pursue a career in esthetics, and I went back to school to become a licensed esthetician. It was a decision that changed my life. After obtaining my license, I rented a room in a salon in Wilmington, where I began providing a range of beauty services, from facials to waxing and lash extensions.
However, my journey didn’t stop there. I dreamed of creating a space where people could escape from their stressors, feel rejuvenated, and leave with enhanced confidence. This dream led me to open my own spa, Glamour and Grace Day Spa, located off West 5th St. in Wilmington. It’s a six-room oasis where we offer facials, massages, waxing, lash extensions, lash lifts, makeup services, and much more. Opening this spa was one of my proudest moments as a Wilmingtonian, and it has been a labor of love ever since.
But my connection to Wilmington goes beyond my business. I believe in giving back to the community that has given me so much. Volunteering has always been a passion of mine, and I’ve had the privilege of working with organizations like Miss Delaware USA, Miss Delaware America, and the Miss Amazing Pageant, which celebrates the abilities of girls and women with disabilities.
I’ve also dedicated my time to helping those in need through volunteering at the Delaware Food Bank, the Sunday Breakfast Mission, and by teaching industry services to students at Delcastle. I’ve had the honor of leading the makeup team for prom girls at Howard High School, ensuring that they felt their absolute best for their special night, regardless of their financial circumstances. Volunteering, to me, is not just a hobby—it’s a way of life. I firmly believe that helping others is at the core of our humanity, and we all deserve to feel special.
Wilmington has provided me with countless opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. One of the reasons I chose this city for my spa’s location is its central accessibility to clients from Philadelphia, Maryland, and all over Delaware. Wilmington’s strong sense of community, endless networking opportunities, and a plethora of events make it the perfect place for my business to flourish.
Speaking of events, Wilmington has no shortage of attractions and activities that I adore. I find joy in attending events at the Wilmington Library, savoring the culinary delights of the Riverfront, and celebrating diversity during HBCU week. The beauty of Nemours Garden and the exciting events at The Queen also hold a special place in my heart.
Beyond my professional life, I have a few interesting facts that might surprise you:
- I enjoy painting, although I haven’t fully explored my creative side on blank canvases yet.
- I was once a competitive swimmer and received numerous awards for my achievements in the pool.
- I’ve been a travel enthusiast since the tender age of three, exploring countless beautiful places around the world.
As a Wilmingtonian, one of my proudest moments is when I opened Glamour and Grace Day Spa. The spa was born out of my desire to create a safe haven for people, where they could let go of their stress, find rejuvenation, and leave with a renewed sense of confidence. It warms my heart to know that our clients can feel the love and care we put into every service.
In the coming years, I hope to see Wilmington grow in several ways. I’d love to see more community events focused on self-care, mental health, and helping the homeless. Additionally, it would be wonderful to witness the city lifting up small businesses, especially those that are up-and-coming, to provide them with greater exposure.
To my fellow Wilmingtonians, I’d like to offer a piece of advice: prioritize self-care. In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to put everything else ahead of your own well-being. However, taking care of your body, mind, and spirit is crucial for navigating life’s challenges effectively. Make time for yourself, because you deserve it.”
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