They say the devil is in the details - Ulladulla woman Louise Lugg has been recognised for her mastery of that particular devil.
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Louise is a finalist for NSW in business excellence at the national AusMumpreneur awards, held in Melbourne on Wednesday, September 4.
The nomination recognises her success as both a businesswoman and a mum of six.
Since graduating from Ulladulla High School in 1980, and landing her first job working the cosmetics counter for Bruce Ward at Soul Pattinson Chemist, Louise went on to open the first beauty salon in Ulladulla, and now travels the world as a spa trainer.
Louise said passion pulled her in to the beauty and spa industry, but being her drive to continue learning was what lead to success.
"Now I'm teaching what we do at Burrill Lake in luxury spas around the world - I think it's hilarious - I'm learning from them, too," she said.
"The secret to a great experience for clients is the detail.
"For me, the challenge has been learning how to be a good businesswoman, how to be a good boss, how to manage my financial obligations."
A large part of that process was learning to value herself - and make sure others valued her too.
"For a long time, I wasn't saying no to people, and I was depleting myself," she said.
"Now I empower my staff, so I don't have to do it all on my own.
"I didn't charge properly either. I had to grow up, learn to be a business woman, and charge my worth so I could cover costs."
Her business, Goddess Isis Health and Wellness Day spa, adjoins the family home - she said having the ability to be flexible was key to mums succeeding in the workforce.
"If they were unwell, I was there," she said.
"If you have a good boss, it stops those guilt feelings of not being there."
She said she was humbled and excited to be named a finalist.
"I'm against some big calibre women, and I initially felt a little intimidated, but I'm going to give it a shot," she said.
Her advice for business, beauty and motherhood was to stay active.
"Never stop learning, don't look the same for 20 years of your life, and make time for your children," she said.
"Maintain standards for yourself - life is crazy, but you deserve it."
