Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Meghan Hamilton, owner of GLAMbeauty bar, located in Vancouver, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are your personal beauty bar + self-care center. From the gorgeous décor and high-quality products to the knowledgeable staff and their expertise in all things beauty, the GLAM experience is unlike any other. Whether you’re having your hair and makeup done or a brow wax and custom airbrush tan, we know that it’s more than just beauty services. We want to help you look great on the outside but, more importantly, feel your best on the inside.
Tell us about yourself
I have always loved doing makeup- I dabbled in myself and my friends growing up, but at 22, I decided I would give it a shot on a professional level! I started as a counter manager at Nordstrom in San Diego and eventually went to Esthetics school to learn even more! I moved back to WA in 2013 and started taking clients out of a room in a nutrition club. I kept hearing women say they wanted a place that felt feminine, upscale, and special, all while maintaining an affordable price point on this side of the river. So GLAM was born!!! I truly created a place and space I would want to come as a client.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am so proud of our reputation- of taking care of the client first and foremost comes before anything else. We take customer service and your experience very seriously!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Never really being able to shut your brain off. There isn't the ability to leave your feelings at the job because it's such a fundamental part of your life.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Figure out what you do well and outsource the rest as soon as you can! I don't mess with filing payroll or taxes because that isn't my strength- I hire out anything I know I might mess up!
- Hire slow, fire fast. One bad egg can do more damage than you can ever imagine.
- Don't try to be everything to everyone- figure out your specialty and nail it.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
At the beginning of my journey, I would take things very personally - just know that you will have good days & you will have bad ones. Everyone will have an opinion, so know who YOU ARE. You will have clients who adore you and ones that don't get you - as long as you take good care of people, admit when you're wrong, and greet everyone with good intentions.... that's all that matters!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.glambeauty.bar/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/glambeautybar200/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glambeauty_bar/
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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