20 UNDER 40: Ashley Bajorek

“Growth occurs in discomfort,” she said.

As a former educator who taught precalculus and honors algebra II, Bajorek took a leap of faith herself when she founded élan MED SPA in St. John.

“I have been on my own aesthetic journey with healthy skin by using medical grade treatments and products, and I wanted to bring that love and passion to my own community as it was lacking in our area,” she said.

Following college, Bajorek began her career in an accounting firm but returned to school to earn her master’s degree in education. Her love of children and math led her to a high school teaching position. After she became pregnant with her twins, she joined her brother’s integrated medical practices in South Carolina in a remote position.

“My experience and exposure over those years gave me the drive to want something of my own close to home,” Bajorek said.

With treatments that range from injectables to facials, élan MED SPA offers a space where people can feel empowered and healthy, she said.

“I do believe that the élan team has brought a safe, comfortable and knowledgeable practice of aesthetics to the region that has diminished the taboo outlook of such treatments that may have existed,” Bajorek said.

In an industry that is continually evolving, Bajorek said she works to stay at the forefront of using advances in technology to offer impressive treatments.

“I hope to continue to be a part of that progression and a key player in this industry,” she said.

Bajorek credits her three daughters who inspire her every day to flourish in a woman-owned company, as well as her husband who is pivotal in his family’s countertop business.

“My team at élan constantly inspires me to innovate and grow because the opportunities are endless,” she said.