Today we’d like to introduce you to Destiny Babyak.
Hi destiny, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Golden started with my love for makeup. At just 15 years old, I began building my makeup kit and doing makeup for my friends and teammates. I quickly fell in love with how something as simple as makeup could completely transform the way someone felt about themselves. Seeing that smile and newfound confidence at the end of every appointment is what made me fall in love with this industry.
As I started thinking about making it a career, I was told makeup alone wouldn’t be enough to build a successful business (which I’ve since learned isn’t true at all!). Still, that advice led me to pursue my full cosmetology license so I could expand my skills and offer even more to my clients.
As time went on, I found myself drawn to the spa side of things too. I realized what I loved most wasn’t just helping women look their best, it was helping them feel their best. Looking back now, I know it was all God’s plan. If I’m being honest, I even told Him “no” a few times because I was scared and didn’t think I was ready. But once I trusted Him, He opened doors I never could have opened on my own.
Now, along with my 10 fellow stylists working at my shop, getting to help women feel beautiful, confident, and cared for every day is exactly why I do what I do. I’m so thankful God led me to Golden.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Has it been smooth? Definitely not.
There have been plenty of moments that made me question if I was on the right path. When I announced the spa side of Golden, I had people tell me no one would support a “duplicate” business because similar services already existed in the area. As my social media grew, so did the criticism. There were countless comments—especially from people locally—saying they offered better services and that my clients should go to them instead.
There were days I questioned whether I should keep going, but through Christ, I found the strength to keep moving forward. I truly believe this was God’s plan, even when I couldn’t see it. I also wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of my fiancé, my friends, and my family. They believed in me on the days I struggled to believe in myself, and they reminded me why I started.
Looking back now, every setback was preparing me for something bigger. I’m thankful I trusted God’s timing over other people’s opinions, because He’s done more with Golden than I ever could have imagined.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I own Golden Salon & Spa with the dream of creating a place where women could feel confident, beautiful, and genuinely cared for. While I started my career in makeup, my passion eventually grew into creating a luxury spa experience that allows women to slow down, relax, and prioritize themselves. Today, Golden is best known for our head spa services, which have become our signature experience and have brought clients to us from all over.
Outside of the salon, I’ve built a community of over 200,000 followers through my spa ASMR content. Sharing the relaxing experience of our services online has connected me with people around the world and introduced so many to the benefits of head spa treatments.
What I’m most proud of isn’t just the business I’ve built it’s the impact it’s had on others. From starting with a small makeup kit at 15 years old to opening my own salon at 23 and growing Golden into a destination for luxury spa services, every milestone has been a reminder of God’s faithfulness.
I believe what sets me apart is that I truly care about every person who walks through our doors. My goal has never been to simply offer a service, it’s to create an experience where every client feels seen, valued, and leaves feeling better than when they arrived. My faith is the foundation of everything I do, and through God’s guidance, along with the support of my fiancé, family, friends, and incredible clients, Golden has become more than I ever imagined.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
One of my favorite things about our area is the sense of community. East Tennessee has so many people who genuinely want to support local businesses, and I’ve been incredibly blessed by the clients who have supported Golden from the very beginning. I also love the beauty of the mountains and the slower pace of life—it makes this such a special place to live and work.
If I had to choose something I’d like to see improve, it would be having more opportunities for small businesses to collaborate instead of compete. I believe there’s enough success to go around, and when local businesses encourage and support one another, it makes the entire community stronger. Also… the parking could be better!
Pricing:
- Headspas are $45-$185/per person and can service up to 2 at a time!
- Bridal services start at $300!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://goldenjeffcity.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenjeffcity and https://www.instagram.com/makeupdess
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Gw2gpeTmq/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@desasmrspa
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@goldenheadspa
