Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gloria Carrillo, Co-Owner of Beau SF, located in San Francisco, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is a one-stop beauty and barber shop. We do everything from eyebrows, tanning, lashes, waxing, and hair services to all barbering services. My clients are people who live in the city, believe in the power of self-care, and choose to invest in looking their best so that they can feel their best.
Tell us about yourself
I’ve always known I’d be an entrepreneur, just not where I’d land in my entrepreneurship. I really didn’t think I’d be in the beauty industry, and to be honest, I fell into it. But, liking back in my life and the things that interest me, it makes complete sense that this is where I ended up. I was initially working on my marketing business and took in a salon as a client. The owner of that salon and I became close friends, and in an unfortunate turn of events, she got cancer. At the time, I was already running her marketing and a small spray tanning business out of her salon. She needed help, and I had already been dabbling in the service that she offered for fun, and I realized I was pretty good at them. I caught on quickly. Long story short, I found myself running her salon and taking clients as she was getting treated for cancer. I held her business together until she got back. Eventually, I partnered up with a friend who was in the beauty industry, and we opened up our own salon.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is being able to support myself with something that I created. Also, creating a space for others to make a living is something I pride myself on.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, it’s managing people. I have a hard time being a “boss.” I’m still adjusting.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Before you start, make a plan and get really honest about the numbers. A lot of people want to start a business because they like the idea, and they assume it will be profitable, but if the numbers don’t make sense, you can’t support yourself or grow. The numbers never lie. While you’re running a business, realize that it’s going to go through cycles and stages, stick with it and work hard. It will work! When it comes to growing your business, you have to think about marketing as an investment, don’t skimp out on it. You gotta spend money to make money. Also, always be thinking about how you can make things better, even the small things. You never want to be stagnant.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.beau-sf.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeauSF
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beausf_/
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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