So nice to meet you! First off, what’s your name? Tell our readers a bit about yourself—where you’re from originally and where you live now.

My name is Marissa Torres-Bertram, and I was born and raised in Minnesota. My mom was born and raised in Puerto Rico, where most of her family still lives today. I make it a point to visit every year, and over the years, I’ve brought many friends along to experience the beauty, culture, and magic of Puerto Rico.

I’m currently based in Minneapolis, where I’ve lived for more than a decade. Since graduating from college in 2011, I’ve had a variety of careers, but after leaving my full-time job in data analytics in 2023, I decided to pursue something that felt more meaningful. I enrolled in a part-time massage therapy program and discovered a career that allows me to care for others in a deeply personal way.

As a massage therapist, my mission is to create a space where every body feels welcome, respected, and supported—where inclusivity isn’t just a value, but the foundation of every client experience. I chose the name Mariposa, which means “butterfly” in Spanish, because it represents transformation, growth, and healing. Growing up Puerto Rican in Minnesota, I understand what it can feel like to navigate spaces where belonging isn’t always a given. That perspective has shaped the way I practice today.

I strive to build genuine connections and provide an environment where every client feels safe, seen, and cared for from the moment they walk through the door.

Tell us one thing you love about where you live now?

Minneapolis has an unmatched sense of community and heart. The way people continue showing up time and time again, especially over the last several years, gives me hope for a better world. The community support, love, and dedication to showing up for one another through hardships are inspiring. I could not be more proud to be part of a place that embodies the sentiment that we all do better when we all do better.

Tell us a little bit more about what your company does and how it started? How does it help your customers?

I was initially introduced to massage as a general form of rest and relaxation, but after my mother went through breast cancer in 2010, I learned about other modalities and styles of massage and began viewing bodywork as a much larger part of self-care and overall well-being.

Being an innate caregiver, my connection to bodywork has developed into a holistic approach that supports healing on all levels—mental, emotional, and physical. I feel some of my strengths are bringing a calm, focused, and grounding energy into the space.

I am a lifelong learner and actively pursue additional training, education, and techniques to expand my toolkit. This allows me to adapt sessions by drawing from a range of styles and modalities to support each client’s specific goals.

If someone wants to start a business, what advice will help them?

Unlike franchises, working for yourself allows you the ability to create your own schedule and prioritize what matters most. It can take time to find a balance between a sustainable workload and avoiding physical and mental burnout, but creating a business you truly believe in is worth it.

I like to adjust my schedule to prioritize preparation for meeting with clients. Interactions with them are not transactional—they are transformational. It takes both the provider and recipient working together to create that transformation.

I do this work because I love it, and working for myself allows me to make decisions that keep me passionate while making the profession sustainable.

What was one feedback from a happy customer/client that you won't forget about?

I’m incredibly grateful for every online review and the kind feedback my clients share with me, both in person and online. One client once told me she was surprised that I remembered her cat’s name and asked about it at her next appointment.

The truth is, I rarely forget the stories you share—especially when they involve your pets! I’m a huge animal lover, but more than that, I genuinely care about what’s happening in my clients’ lives. Building those connections is one of the most meaningful parts of my work.

Where do you see your company in the future?

I continued taking training courses even after graduating and starting my practice, and I have signed up for even more training this fall. I see my commitment to learning new styles as a way to continue growing my business and truly tailor each session to what a client is looking for.

This style of integrative massage—which means using a blend of techniques to customize treatment for each client—creates a creative and inclusive approach that keeps the work exciting for me.

In addition to my traditional massage training, I am certified in Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage and am looking to add ASMR Sensory Massage and Ashiatsu Massage to my practice in the near future.

What is the biggest misconception about your industry?

I believe everyone deserves access to massage and bodywork as part of their self-care. The biggest misconception about massage and bodywork is that it is simply a luxury because it can feel relaxing and indulgent.

For many people, however, bodywork and massage are important parts of maintaining physical and mental well-being. Simply holding a safe space for an individual can be incredibly healing. Massage supports your health beyond simply providing comfort.

What has been one of your biggest struggle building your business and how did you deal with it?

The road, like any journey, has had its ups and downs. Alex Pretti was murdered just a block away from the studio during Minneapolis’ occupation during the ICE Metro Surge in January. Rescheduling clients, adjusting work schedules, keeping people safe, and showing up to support the community were always the priorities.

I am profoundly grateful to work for myself and in a space that prioritizes individual healing while cultivating a strong community that advocates for human rights.

Any shoutouts you want to make?

A shout-out to my graduating class! What an amazing, talented, and genuine group of human beings.

Another shout-out to Yess Yoga—the space where I operate—for creating such a safe and inclusive environment. I feel so fortunate to share space with them.

Always a shout-out to my parents for all the love and support throughout the years.

And the loudest shout-out goes to my partner for being my biggest fan and unwavering North Star.

Where can our readers learn more about you and your company?

Find out more at my website www.mariposamassagemn.com

Or follow me on socials at www.instagram.com/mariposamassage_mn