a wellness startup named one of TIME'S greatest places in 2025

When Kelly Lewis sat in a red wine bath in the Republic of Georgia, she had no idea it would spark one of the most buzzworthy wellness startups in the U.S.—let alone earn a coveted spot on TIME Magazine’s Greatest Places to Visit in the World for 2025.

But that’s exactly what happened.

In this episode of the Sacred Business Mastery Podcast, I sat down with Kelly to reflect on the journey of launching The Wine Spa—Portland’s first vinotherapy concept spa rooted in local partnerships, luxury treatments, and full sensory experiences.

After securing her location, Kelly brought me in as her business strategist and systems specialist to help build the operational and energetic foundation of The Wine Spa. With a heart-led vision and a bold concept, she was ready to lead—but also knew that sustainable growth would require systems, strategy, and support behind the scenes. That’s where I had the joy of guiding her through the startup journey.

🛠️ Streamlining the operational setup
📋 Avoiding costly first-time owner mistakes
👥 Building and onboarding a dream team
📈 Creating visibility through aligned PR + marketing strategies

What followed was a story of trust, grit, and full-hearted leadership that any beauty or wellness entrepreneur will relate to.

What is Vinotherapy, and Why It Matters

Vinotherapy isn’t just trendy—it’s ancient. Kelly’s spa blends resveratrol-rich skincare, wine-infused body treatments, and full-sensory rituals designed to nourish from the inside out. Every product, soak, and service is rooted in grape-based antioxidants—and every guest gets a complimentary glass of wine from local vineyards.

“We’re honoring an ancient wellness practice, supporting local winemakers, and creating a space that’s elegant—but never pretentious.” – Kelly Lewis

From Idea to Open Doors: What Startup Life Really Looks Like

In this episode, Kelly shares the honest, behind-the-scenes look at launching a brick-and-mortar business:

• The long (and emotional) process of securing SBA financing
• How she built a team aligned with the brand’s heart and values
• Why she decided to seek coaching before she made costly mistakes
• How strategic PR led to a national spotlight
• What she’s still learning about leadership, trust, and delegation

As a ruling number 7 in numerology, Kelly embodies fierce faith—and it’s that spiritual grit, paired with practical systems, that has helped her navigate each challenge with grace and grit.

Marketing That Feels Like You

Kelly’s visibility strategy is refreshingly human. She's showing up in all the places—social media, PR features, influencer partnerships, speaking engagements—but always in her own voice.

“I want people to feel like they belong here—even if they don’t know much about spas or wine. That means being playful, approachable, and real.”

That same energy is what has made The Wine Spa go viral, landing Kelly media features, partnerships with French skincare brand Caudalie, and the support of Portland’s tourism board.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• You don’t need industry experience to launch a powerful business
• Strategy + soul are a winning combination
• Visibility doesn’t have to feel gross—it can feel like you
• Building a team means learning to lead with heart
• You won’t know all the answers—but that’s not a reason to wait

Ready to Launch or Scale Your Soul-Led Business?

Whether you’re dreaming of starting a spa, wellness studio, or service-based business that blends impact and income—I’m here to support you with strategy, systems, and soul.

✨ Book a Numerology Blueprint Reading HERE