Jamie (Schaffer) Schneider, a proud alumna of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), has built a thriving career in massage therapy while maintaining strong ties to her high school and community. A 2002 graduate, Jamie has fond memories of her time at PVHS, where she was heavily involved in the school’s music program and developed lifelong friendships.
Jamie’s time at PVHS was marked by her passion for music and involvement in the band. “One of my fondest memories from high school was making the Allstate Band my junior year,” Jamie recalls. She played the trumpet and was actively engaged in various band activities, including concert band, jazz band, and performing at football and basketball games. “Hit Parade was also a great experience,” she adds, describing it as a fun, comedy-filled event where students could audition to perform skits or musical numbers, often accompanied by the jazz band. This early involvement in extracurricular activities helped Jamie build a sense of community and teamwork, skills that would later prove invaluable in her professional life.
After graduating from PVHS, Jamie attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) for two years before deciding to pursue a career in massage therapy. “I went on to massage school after UNLV,” Jamie says, crediting her mother for suggesting this path. Initially seen as a temporary solution while she figured out her long-term plans, massage therapy soon became a fulfilling career. Jamie started working in high-end establishments like the Bellagio, where she honed her skills and built a reputation for excellence.
Transitioning from working for corporate entities to opening her practice was a significant milestone in Jamie’s career. “I started at Bella Salon in March of 2015,” she shares, reflecting on her nearly decade-long journey as an independent massage therapist. Building a clientele from scratch was challenging, but Jamie’s dedication and commitment to her clients helped her succeed.
Jamie’s career has not been without its challenges. One of the most demanding periods was when she first started at Bellagio, where she performed up to nine massages a day during ten-hour shifts. “That was a lot to get used to, the fast pace and physical demands of the job,” Jamie recalls. Despite the physical toll, she persevered, learning important lessons about listening to clients’ needs and the importance of self-care. “You really think, ‘I’ve got to take care of myself,’ especially after seeing some people struggle with mobility,” she notes.
Jamie has remained deeply connected to her community, both through her business and personal life. Her daughter Charlotte, a senior at PVHS and a member of the dance team, keeps Jamie involved in the high school’s activities. Jamie’s younger daughter, Lorraine, is also involved in dance and attends the local Community Christian Academy for school, keeping Jamie tied into the community as well.
Jamie is also involved in community service. She recently joined the board of Nevada Outreach, an organization dedicated to supporting victims of violence and providing housing and resources to those in need. “It’s a great way to give back and help those who have experienced difficult situations,” Jamie shares, emphasizing her commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
Jamie’s ability to balance her professional and personal life is a testament to her strong organizational skills and the flexibility that comes with being her own boss. “I just make it work,” she says about juggling her responsibilities as a business owner and a mother. “Whenever the girls have something going on, I always schedule my stuff so I can be there for them.”
Outside of work and family, Jamie enjoys spending time at the gym and participating in activities that promote her well-being. Although she once pursued bodybuilding, she decided to prioritize her health and work-life balance over the intense demands of the sport. “It was a little too much to have on my plate while working full-time,” she admits.
As for the future, Jamie’s goals are simple yet meaningful, she looks forward to enjoying more time with her family and taking part in annual traditions like her girls’ trips with friends. “It’s always nice to have those moments to relax and have fun,” she says.
With Charlotte’s graduation on the horizon, Jamie feels a mix of excitement and nostalgia. “It’s a bittersweet moment,” she confesses. “I’m excited for her, but it’s also hard to believe she’s already graduating.”
As Jamie looks forward to what lies ahead, she remains deeply committed to her work and her community. Whether she’s helping clients heal through massage therapy or supporting her daughters in their endeavors, Jamie’s passion for making a positive impact is evident in all she does. Her journey is a reminder that success is not just about professional achievements but also about staying true to one’s values and giving back to those around you. With her unwavering dedication and compassionate spirit, Jamie continues to inspire those who know her.
