Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lauren Kunijo, Co-Owner of Kenna Kunijo, located in Charlotte, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a high-end boutique salon whose mantra is "because it's about more than just great hair." We provide an experience and environment for all walks of life to feel comfortable in our salon.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been motivated by wanting to create an experience or environment that I did not have in my first salons as an employee and also as a client. I am motivated by the science and education behind color and cutting. I enjoy knowing the why behind the rules to extend creativity further. My business partner and I have also worked to create a legacy in the community by giving back to the community we live in and the areas we live in. Seeing our impact only grows our desire to touch more lives.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Honestly, creating a space where our employees feel like a part of a team, valued, and also value our brand has been the greatest joy.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The best and hardest thing sometimes is growing people. Sometimes in an effort to grow people, it means having difficult conversations when seeing their potential. Sometimes it's stretching them to expect more from themselves or even stretching them to realize if this industry is right for them.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Be willing to put in the work; this includes time and money. Creating your own brand or business teaches you even more about yourself and how you work, learn, and teach than anything else, and you got to have the willingness to grow. Set the standards you want for your business and perform at that level from day 1. Too often, people aspire to grow into treating their employees better or having a better client experience, do that from the start.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.kennakunijo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kennakunijo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennakunijo/
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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