Her Story
About Carolina
Carolina Oneill Felton serves as Center Manager at European Wax Center in Tysons, Virginia, where she oversees daily operations, including scheduling, payroll, employee coaching, and team development for a staff of 14. With 25 years of experience in self-care, wellness, and customer service, she has built a career centered on leadership, business growth, and creating exceptional client experiences. Her career journey began after leaving high school early to start her family; she later earned her GED and an associate degree in Business Administration, demonstrating the determination and perseverance that continue to define her professional path. She went on to earn a cosmetology license from International Beauty School in Maryland in 2008, a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from George Mason University in 2011, and advanced training in massage therapy with a focus on craniosacral therapy.
Before joining European Wax Center, Felton spent six years as General Manager of a Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa location in Reston, Virginia, where she developed a strong record of sales growth, team leadership, and operational excellence. She was recognized in the company's corporate newsletter for her achievements in sales and client aftercare, led her team to generate $36,000 in sales in a single month, and helped the spa achieve million-dollar status within its first year. At European Wax Center, she has continued to demonstrate her ability to drive results, doubling revenue during her first year while fostering a high-performing, people-focused culture. Her commitment to client satisfaction and team development has contributed to the center earning some of the highest Google ratings in Northern Virginia.
Felton attributes her success to her children and her personal drive, drawing inspiration from their resilience and determination. She believes that the most important measure of leadership is how you make people feel and is committed to creating a culture where clients and employees feel valued, supported, and genuinely cared for. She encourages others to believe in themselves against all odds, remain persistent, and embrace continuous learning as the self-care industry evolves. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Felton gives back to her community through annual donations supporting the National Domestic Violence Hotline and participation in food bank initiatives through her charter. Her career reflects a strong combination of perseverance, compassionate leadership, business expertise, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Carolina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my children and my drive to keep moving forward, even in the face of challenges. My children have inspired me through their own determination and resilience, particularly my son, who experienced an anoxic brain injury yet persevered and graduated from high school against all odds. His journey ultimately led me to pursue massage therapy, giving me a meaningful career path and a deeper sense of purpose. Their strength continues to motivate me to work hard, overcome obstacles, and strive for excellence in everything I do.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to simply keep going and never quit. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but perseverance, determination, and the willingness to keep moving forward can make all the difference. I have learned that staying committed to my goals, even when the path is difficult, is essential to achieving long-term success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to believe in yourself and your abilities, even when the odds seem to be against you. Stay confident in your strengths, remain determined through challenges, and never allow obstacles or setbacks to define what you believe you can achieve.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is continuing to strengthen my training and leadership skills. I am still learning and growing as a trainer, with valuable guidance and support from my district manager. At the same time, the industry is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay current with modern self-care routines, emerging trends, and new services. I see this as both a challenge and an opportunity to continue developing my skills and providing the best possible experience for my clients.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, genuine care, and the way I make people feel. I believe that people may not always remember exactly what you did for them, but they will remember how you made them feel. I strive to take care of others, create meaningful connections, and contribute to a positive, supportive, and unmatched culture where people feel valued, respected, and cared for.
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