Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Crystal Mcclung, Owner of Cherish Hair Design, located in Sherwood Park, AB, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Cherish is dedicated to providing a memorable and unique experience for our customers through superior customer service, technical expertise, and advice. As we focus on our client's unique qualities, we will design a custom look that will leave you feeling authentically beautiful with each visit.
With the use of refurbished materials & local designers, we're passionate about creating a beautiful space with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Our mission is to inspire guests to nurture and protect themselves. And our environment is front and center. Our passion for the craft inspires us to learn and enhance our skills continually. We strive to create long-lasting customer relationships built on trust and commitment by providing a memorable experience while you are here and the tools necessary to achieve the look at home.
Tell us about yourself
I found my passion at a young age when I had the opportunity to take Cosmetology in High School. Now 21 years later, I find myself blessed to have a loyal and cherished list of clients. I have been fortunate to have worked under some of the most talented stylists in the business. I have worked in several wonderful salons, learning something new from each one. Along with my duties as a stylist, I have been involved in all aspects of the management of a salon, such as team building, mentoring, ordering products, promotion/advertising, event planning, and education. Over the years, I have taken advanced training with TIGI and Davines, participating in conferences and academies all over the world in fashion meccas such as New York, Barcelona, Venice, Amsterdam, Berlin, Las Vegas, as well as locally here in Edmonton. These 'hands-on opportunities' have taught me that the sky is the limit in creative pursuits and have given me the skills to provide something unique for my clients. Hair Styling is not just an occupation for me, it is my passion, and I am anxious to create the vision I have had for my own salon. I have learned from the best and now have used that knowledge to create something even better.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
When my business first opened, my daughter was only two years old. As a woman entrepreneur, it's a terrifying moment when you know there is more you have to offer. To open a business and balance your home life and feel like you can succeed was a daily challenge. After eight years, I can finally say that I get to go and enjoy my daughter's baseball game or any of her activities without worrying about my business. It may have taken longer than I would have liked, but I can honestly say I'm here. I have established a life of freedom and profit.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that we have to deal with is staffing. Between training, talent, and industry changes with small independent/home base models. It has been a challenge to maintain staff through COVID while it pushes a lot of people to source additional income in other industries.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't ignore physical and emotional health.
- Fuel your passion on a regular basis.
- Network with complementary businesses.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
There's more to just beauty. In our salon, we welcome guests and listen to their requests. We care about people; we love hair; we believe in sustainable beauty. We celebrate grace and elegance, we appreciate suggestions, and we believe that beautiful is also good. Cherish every moment; we Cherish the day, the life, the look.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://cherishhairdesign.com/
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3b80jqU
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherishhairdesign/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3zHmZbK
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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