At Home with Vanessa Lundin of Denver Mobile Teeth Whitening
For our series Closet Confidential, we interview interesting and uber cool people in their homes wearing outfits from their closet. Esther Lee Leach caught up with Vanessa Lundin, owner of Denver Mobile Teeth Whitening, at her home in West Highland.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ESTHER LEE LEACH
Esther Lee Leach: Vanessa, you created this fabulous business, Denver Mobile Teeth Whitening, a couple of years ago after a less than stellar experience at a spa. What happened?
Vanessa Lundin: In the Summer of 2017, we had two children getting married six weeks apart! Our teeth were not-so-pearly white with all the coffee we drank and I thought it would be nice to brighten them up for photos. We decided that the dentist’s office was too costly, so we chose a local spa. Needless to say, the experience was less than pleasant. There was no education about the process, the product, or aftercare. Our teeth hurt for two weeks and the results were not what we had hoped for. It was also difficult to work around our busy schedules as there were no appointments available during evenings or weekends.
ELL: Most people who have a bad experience with service usually end up simply finding another place to go but you wanted to do more! You decided to start your own company to offer a better experience. Why did you want to go into this business?
VL: Having worked in the healthcare industry for over 20 years, I have always found great joy in helping others. After our experience, I thought there has to be an easier way to get a white smile! With all the hustle and bustle that life brings, finding time for self-care can be challenging. No one likes to go to the Dentist or sit in a clinical setting. Our staff that comes to your front door makes the process both convenient and relaxing. We will even help with your children and pets while you whiten!
ELL: Before you started Denver Mobile Teeth Whitening, what was your background? What industry did you work in?
VL: I worked in Hospitals in Chicago for over 20 years in Sales and Business Development. My most recent job before starting DMTW required me to work 100% from home. I am a very extroverted person, so this was not enjoyable for me! I knew I wanted to get back into a career that allowed me to connect with others on a daily basis.
ELL: Denver Mobile Teeth Whitening has become so popular in Denver! I think one of the main reasons is the convenience factor. You are able to offer the service in clients’ homes, offices and now in your sprinter/van studio. Why did you decide to make this one of your main selling points for the business?
VL: I had always dreamed of having a true mobile studio when I started the business. However, I wanted to see if the demand was truly there. While the business boomed for clients wanting teeth whitening in their homes, I found that clients wanting teeth whitening in their offices were uncomfortable with us coming into their workspace. Having the Sprinter van solves this problem. It also makes the process more efficient, as there is no setup time involved. Trucks exist for just about everything these days (food, fashion, medicine, you name it!), so a teeth whitening studio on a van is simply a fun experience. The interiors are SO comfortable, and we have iPads and Wifi so clients can catch up on emails or watch their favorite show.
ELL: There are many products and methods on the market to whiten teeth. Tell us what process you use and why it is a better method.
VL: It’s difficult to sort through all the teeth whitening options available in the market. Do-it-yourself methods like white strips, charcoal products and at-home kits will not give the same results as a professional whitening session. This is because our process whitens the deeper layers of the teeth, going beneath just surface stains. We apply a hydrogen peroxide-based gel to the client’s teeth. The gel is made in the USA, vegan, FDA approved, and much less harsh than other whitening products. Once the gel is applied, the client sits under a UV light for three 20-minute sessions, rinsing in between each session. The total time is about an hour and 15 minutes. We apply a mineral gel after the treatment to strengthen the enamel and seal in the results. What makes it so great is that the results are instant and the price is affordable.
ELL: Why is teeth whitening so important? How can it contribute to someone’s self-confidence?
VL: Although looks aren’t everything- if you look good, you will feel good! And if you feel good about your appearance, you simply will exude more confidence! I’ve had numerous clients who wouldn’t smile with their teeth before our service. A dull smile is also the biggest determinant of age and teeth whitening is the quickest way to take years off your appearance. It brings me such joy to know I’m making that positive of a change in their everyday lives. Everyone deserves to smile without a care!
ELL: Now, let’s talk about fashion! You are always so impeccably dressed and very stylish every time I see you! How would you describe your personal style?
VL: Surprisingly, my personal style has not changed much over the years. Working in a corporate environment in Chicago for over 20 years did not allow a lot of fashion creativity, but I found that purchasing quality, simple, classic pieces in neutral colors is the foundation to every great wardrobe. My mother taught us that when in doubt, wear a black suit! However, I do enjoy watching the trends and adding in several edgy pieces each season to freshen up my look. I love the energy in Colorado surrounding fashion – anything goes! While working, I can often be found in denim (AG are my favorite), white sneakers (Adidas Stan Smith – I am dating myself), and a classic white t-shirt (always on the hunt for the best ones). I also love wearing simple dresses and leather jackets!
Cherry Creek Fashion TV’s The Beauty Report with Vanessa Lundin