We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristy Ferguson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristy, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I wanted to be able to help others on a more meaningful level. When I worked for other companies, I felt that I was limited in my capacity. So, I created an environment where not only do my clients feel welcomed, but they feel passion for their care. My employees feel nurtured and comfortable, which allows them to grow and flourish.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the Owner of Elite Massage Therapy and Spa as well as the President of the local business association (EGBA). I have been self employed for over 12 yrs now and I love what I do. My passion for massage therapy started as a young child, by massaging my mother’s hands. She worked as a seamstress so often her hands would hurt at the end of her workday. When my mother was later diagnosed with breast cancer, she had said to me that she knew her days were numbered so she didn’t want to be on medication for her pain as she stated she wanted to be present not sleepy or unaware. So, I decided to go back to school for massage therapy. She wasn’t thrilled with this decision as I had already gotten my original degree from Marshall. But I knew the greater plan. Midway through the program I took continuing education courses for People living with cancer. Which at the time was contraindicated in massage therapy. I honestly have to say massage therapy was never the plan for my career, it was only to help my mother. It wasn’t until her passing and a last promise I made to her that I decided this was my destine path in life. So I decided to make massage therapy my main career.

In my career I’ve always swung big. Yes, I ask myself all the tough questions and I make sure the timing is right. Is the the market is ready, and can I survive the what-if I was wrong. But I would rather swing for the fences than sit on the bench.

As a local business owner, I also took on the role of President of our local Business Association. With this role I have made the mission to support our community via Events, Beautification projects and clean up. It is also my role to mentor future business owners. This is incredibly rewarding work that I truly enjoy. I strongly believe that if we want the community to support our businesses, we must support our community as well.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love playing tour guide. So now that I live in Wheeling WV. My first stop in Oglebay. Oglebay is just gorgeous year round. No matter if it’s the spring and the tulips are in Bloom or if it’s winter and the ground is snow covered it is always stunning. Next on my list is the Mt Wood overlook. This is the best view of the city with a very interesting back story. Last but not least I would take them a short drive to the neighboring town of Moundville to visit the Palace of Gold. It is a must see at least once in your life.. Stunning views, Breath taking architecture and rich history. It is well worth the visit.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I love the book Grit by Angela Duckworth

Website: Elitemassagewv.com

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Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.