Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Trey Bower, Owner and Senior Stylist of Boulder Hair Collective, located in Boulder, CO, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

WHERE SUSTAINABLE MEETS LUXURY BEAUTY.

Our mission is to offer luxury hair services and products in an inclusive, welcoming, safe space for all. We are rooted in social community and environmental performance through our commitment to sustainable beauty practices and year-round community growth-focused initiatives.

Each stylist and creative at our salon possesses extensive knowledge and expertise in the traditional, modern, and sustainable methodologies needed to articulate and execute our client's hair goals and desires.

Tell us about yourself

My passion for hair and beauty started at a very young age. "Every Saturday, my Granny has a rolling hair appointment that I would be front row center, witness to, each and every week. The smells of hair products, the sounds of women laughing, hair dryers... I could go on. I would look forward to this day at the salon, as I would also bear witness to the stylists at work. They would engage, laugh, cry, and counsel the women in their chairs, all the while coloring and styling their hair. I was in awe at the stylist's ability to adapt to each person, making each beautiful and feel great.

Fast-forward to the year 2022, and these very experiences have inspired me to build my hair business and expand it to what it is today, Boulder Hair Collective. A sustainable luxury beauty salon. Working with my clients and the other stylists at 'The Collective truly helps me connect and re-create those very emotions, feelings, and outcomes. In these moments, I can't help but reminisce about spending Saturday with Granny.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Opening a new salon has been an incredible journey of growth and determination. 🌟 From humble beginnings in a 100 sq ft space to now proudly operating in a spacious 1500 sq ft haven of beauty, it's a testament to the dedication and passion that fueled this accomplishment. 💪✂️ Each square foot tells a story of hard work, creativity, and a commitment to creating a welcoming sanctuary for clients. As I reflect on this achievement, I'm reminded that dreams can truly become reality with unwavering perseverance. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. I can't wait to see where the future takes us in this expanded space.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the most challenging aspects of managing employees at a hair salon is balancing individual creativity with consistency in service. In this creative industry, each stylist brings their unique flair and artistic vision, which is incredibly valuable. However, maintaining a consistent quality of service and adhering to salon standards while encouraging creativity can be delicate. It requires effective communication, ongoing training, and finding the right balance between giving creative freedom and ensuring that every client is satisfied. Managing this delicate dance between artistic expression and service consistency is a constant challenge but also one of the most rewarding aspects of nurturing a successful salon team.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Certainly, here are three pro tips for opening and running a successful hair salon today:

  1. Location and Market Research: Choose your salon's location wisely. Research the demographics of the area to understand your target market's preferences and needs. A prime location with high foot traffic and visibility can significantly impact your salon's success. Analyze the competition in the area and identify gaps or niches you can fill to stand out.
  2. Digital Presence and Online Booking: In today's digital age, a strong online presence is crucial. Create a professional website and maintain active social media profiles to showcase your salon's work, services, and promotions. Implement an online booking system to make it convenient for clients to schedule appointments. Encourage online reviews and engage with customers on social media to build a loyal community.
  3. Customer Experience and Staff Training: Focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences. Train your staff not only in hair services but also in customer service. Friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive staff can turn first-time clients into loyal customers. Regularly update your team's skills to stay current with the latest trends and techniques. Consider creating loyalty programs or referral incentives to reward and retain clients. Remember that the salon industry is ever-evolving, so staying adaptable and responsive to customer preferences and industry trends is key to long-term success.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://boulderhaircollective.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086034219719
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boulderhaircollective/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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