Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amory Costanzo, owner of Amory Alexandra Hair For Men, located in New York, NY, USA.

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

I own a small upscale men's hair salon in midtown Manhattan that services business professionals in the area. We provide personalized haircuts, hair color, gray blending, and beard trims. We focus on consultation to give clients a customized haircut or chemical service based on the look that the customer is trying to achieve.

Tell us about yourself

I've been in the men's grooming industry since 2004. I worked for a large upscale men's hair salon for 15 years and decided I was ready to take my first steps in working for myself, so I left the salon I was at and rented a chair. I wanted to get a feel for what it would be like to have my own salon, so this was the best way for me to get started. My clients are the absolute best, and they completely supported my decision. It was by no means as easy as I thought it would be, but I stuck with it and continued to grow my clientele. Within 2 1/2 years, I was ready for the plunge into opening a salon of my own.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment definitely has to be growing my business through a two-year pandemic! I had only been renting my chair for ten months when the pandemic hit, which for obvious reasons completely deflated my business and my confidence. I refused to give up even when I wasn't sure what the future was going to hold for my plans to be a salon owner. I made a decision to keep pushing forward, which was difficult and scary, but I was determined to give it all I had. And it worked out better than I had expected; as of January 1st of this year, I finally fulfilled my dream, and I am a very proud owner of my own salon.

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

Time management and balance between my personal life and my salon. I'm a mother of 2 on top of owning a salon, so navigating these two very demanding jobs can be tricky and exhausting, but I wouldn't change any of it at all. Whatever I'm personally sacrificing now will be well rewarded in the future for both my family and my business.

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

Customer service is absolutely key in any part of the beauty industry; that has to be at the forefront of your business. Interaction with customers or clients means absolutely everything to them and to the growth of your business.

Don't be afraid to take a risk, and don't be afraid to fail. If you have a passion for it and love what you do, it will all come together when the time is right. Don't give up even when you think you're completely defeated, keep going and keep your goals in front of you.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I'm completely grateful for being able to do something every day that I love so much. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my clients in my chair. Whether it's a client I've had for ten years, a client I'm just getting to know, or meeting for the first time. Forming these relationships is the reason I've pushed myself as far as I have in this industry. I wanted my own salon to give my clients the best service and experience there is to offer, and I'm proud of myself for accomplishing it, not only for me but for them. I wouldn't be where I am without the support of these amazing and loyal people!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://amoryalexandra.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amoryalexandrahair/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amoryalexandrahair/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amoryalexandra
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amory-alexandra-hair-for-men/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.