The Refinery was opened in 2001 by its original owner, Autumn Williams. Being a badass female entrepreneur, Autumn grew The Refinery into a multi-room waxing and bodywork studio. The Refinery was put on the map as the home of the 15 minute brazilian and is Minnesota’s longest running wax center.

In 2013 The Refinery was purchased by long-time employees, Megan and Alea.

At The Refinery we believe that every body is beautiful and that skin care is self care. We believe in uplifting women and nonbinary folks in the workforce and we boast a staff of long-term employees who believe in making connections with each person who walks through the doors. The Refinery is a fully inclusive space specializing in gender inclusive waxing, all are welcome here.

Our seasoned staff are well trained to work on all bodies and skin conditions. Whether you are looking to melt away stress with a therapeutic massage or learn the science behind good skin-care, we have you covered. Start your self-care journey by booking an appointment today.

 meet your new bestie

  • A woman with shoulder-length dark hair, wearing a dark green top, standing outdoors on a bridge with a city skyline in the background, including a large Ferris wheel.

    Megan

    Owner, Advanced Practice Esthetician

    Megan started at The Refinery as a receptionist in 2008. After graduating from the UofM, Megan decided to go to esthetics school and became an esthetician in 2011. In 2013 Megan and Alea purchased The Refinery.

    Megan has a passion for education and loves to connect with clients about the science behind their skin.

    Megan deeply believes in inclusivity and specializes in waxing all bodies regardless of gender or identity expression.

    When not at The Refinery, Megan is spending time with her 2 girls and teaching advanced waxing classes to other professionals.

    Book with Megan
  • A woman with long brown hair, smiling, wearing a white V-neck shirt and teal hoop earrings, outdoors with blurred trees in the background.

    Alea

    Owner, Advanced Practice Esthetician

    Alea has been an esthetician since 2010. She believes that skincare isn’t just about great products and glowing skin, but about helping people feel confidant in themselves.

    She believes in creating a space where clients can relax, recharge, and leave feeling amazing. Transformative facials, to a quite moment of self care, Alea wants each of her clients to feel seen and taken care of.

    Her mission is to make self cafe less intimidating by creating a welcoming, judgement free space.

    When not in the treatment room Alea enjoys getting dirty in the garden and spending time with family. Plants or people, Alea loves to nurture.

    Book with Alea
  • A smiling woman with curly hair standing outdoors on a rooftop, wearing a colorful floral and geometric patterned blouse, with an urban cityscape and cloudy sky in the background.

    Amy

    Advanced Practice Esthetician

    Book with Amy
  • A woman with curly dark hair, glasses, and earrings, smiling with arms crossed in front of a cityscape background.

    Stephanie

    Advanced Practice Esthetician

    Stephanie has been a licensed esthetician for over a decade. She started her journey at The Refinery as a massage therapist and says that The Refinery is her home away from home.

    Specializing in full body waxing, facials, and lash lifts, she believes that skincare and waxing services are for everybody in every body.

    Whether you are new to waxing or an old pro, you are in good hands with Stephanie. She believes in inclusivity and body positivity and looks forward to providing you with a comfortable and stress-free experience.

    Book with Stephanie
  • A woman with long dark hair and blue eyes smiling outdoors, wearing a dark sweatshirt, with a blurred background of trees and cityscape.

    Holly

    Advanced Practice Esthetician

    Holly began her Refinery career as a receptionist in 2012 while studying photojournalism at the UofM. After graduating she became an esthetician so she could continue working at The Refinery while pursuing photography.

    Holly enjoys providing a variety of services and loves that each day is different. She is passionate about building relationships with clients and is grateful to have a job that connects her to so many people.

    Book with Holly
  • A woman with shoulder-length wavy hair smiling outdoors near a bridge, with trees and a cityscape in the background.

    AnneMarie

    Advanced Practice Esthetician

    AnneMarie has been in the beauty industry since 2006. She has the ability to make clients feel confident and comfortable during not-so-comfortable waxes.

    Whether it is your first wax or tenth, she will keep you laughing and relaxed.

    One of her favorite parts of her job are the relationships she has built over sharing stories and gossiping with clients.

    In her free time she enjoys outdoor activies such as hiking, camping, walking her dog, and hanging out with her husband and daughter.

    Book with AnneMarie
  • A young woman with long, wavy brown hair wearing large glasses, a dark green sweater, and a gray shirt underneath, smiling outdoors on a bridge with cityscape in the background and autumn trees to the right.

    Isabella

    Advanced Practice Esthetician

    Isabella has been an esthetician since 2023. Her passion is rooted in assisting individuals through any kind of skin-related challenges. She believes it is never to late to start taking care of your skin and is excited to tailor solutions for your unique skin-care needs.

    In her free time Isabella enjoys snuggling up at home with her kitties, reading, and going on walks.

    Book with Isabella
  • A young woman with blonde hair wearing a light blue shirt standing outdoors, crossing her arms and smiling, with a cityscape and autumn trees in the background.

    Liz

    Esthetician

    Liz has been an esthetician since 2023 and is passionate about enhancing natural beauty while creating a calm and nurturing space for clients.

    She loves learning about the science of skin and using that knowledge to provide tailored treatments for each client.

    Outside of work she enjoys traveling, learning new things, and exploring new foods.

    Book with Liz
  • A woman with shoulder-length brown hair, smiling, wearing a black jacket, standing outdoors near a metal fence with a cityscape in the background.

    Leo

    Massage therapist

    Leo has been a massage therapist for over a decade and will tailor their service specifically to you.

    In their practice they will listen to clients and adjust techniques to suit the most stubborn tight muscle or provide a level of relaxation that will melt away stress.

    Leo’s background in the aerial arts and contortion gives them a unique knowledge of the muscular system. Leo’s unique experience and knowledge allows them to educate you on different stretches and strength exercises to help prolong your relief.

    Leo is currently booking appointments Wednesday-Friday and one Saturday a month.

    Book with Leo