Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Demitria Dotson, Owner of Blewprint Salon, located in Chicago, IL, USA.

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

I am the owner and Master Stylist of Blewprint Salon. We provide a variety of natural hair services, including blowouts, hair color, and extensions. Our clients are female and male and range in age from college to middle. We have created a safe space for people who still care about having healthy hair. Whether it's a woman who hasn't been into a salon in years or a man who just grew his hair out and needed proper maintenance, we create a personalized experience.

Tell us about yourself

I've been a licensed cosmetologist since 2013. (Wow! Almost 10 years!) I may have been born with the love for cosmetology. When I was in middle school, my friends would come over after school for "study group." By the time it was over, each of them had a new hairstyle done by me. I'm living out my dream and working my dream job. This is the only thing I've ever wanted to do. Everything I've done professionally was to put myself in the position I am in now. Making my dream, my reality is what keeps me going each and every day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being able to give back to the community. Blewprint Salon has hosted several back-to-school events providing free hair services and school supplies to school-aged kids. It's by far the most rewarding part of being a business owner.

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

One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is work-life balance. As a mom and wife, I make sure that I cover all the bases while never letting Blewprint fall by the waist is a juggling act. Some appointments run longer than expected. Some nights, my family is asleep before I get in from work. Mom guilt is a real thing.

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

  1. Do it afraid. Fear is one indicator that what you're doing is worth it. If it were easy and not scary, everyone would be doing it.
  2. Trust yourself. You have the vision. Do the work.
  3. Ask for help. One of the biggest misconceptions about being an entrepreneur is that you must do everything yourself. Build the team you need. Teamwork makes the dream work.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If your business is one in which customers provide the majority of your income, never lose the art of customer service. It has the power to take your business so much further.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.blewprintsalon.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlewprintSalon/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blewprintsalon/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/blewprintsalon

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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