Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mirella Manelli, CEO of Rebel Femme Salon, located in Mission Viejo, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own several businesses, but the one that most people know me for is self-titled Mirella Manelli Education and Rebel Femme. Mirella Manelli Education is for the hairstylist looking to elevate their hair & beauty business through online education on social media like YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and HairB&B Podcast, as well as through paid courses like Beyond the Chair Mastermind. In addition to running my own platform, I own Rebel Femme, a salon, podcast, and shop! I have a team of leading women who run the salon, create content, and manage the online shop for clients who are looking for exceptional service and a fun place to learn how to care for their hair.
Tell us about yourself
I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur! Growing on social media in 2014 has led me to realize how I could leverage my following on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to secure brand deals, monetize, and sell digital products. I now teach other hairstylists how to work less and make more by utilizing the knowledge I've acquired about social media & monetization. Education comes naturally to me since I love the hair industry, and knowing that people love the content I produce motivates me to make more! I think the main driver here is I have 4 kids, and I want to lead by example that if you love what you do, the money will follow. Being an entrepreneur allows for limitless income potential.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment thus far as a business owner is leading my salon to produce over 1 million dollars in sales. We opened our doors in 2018 (a month before the birth of my third child), survived through three closures because of the pandemic, and grew substantially all because of social media marketing.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner in a busy salon is managing people, especially hairstylists. I say this lightly, as hairstylists are a creative bunch. I've learned that hiring quality people who understand the vision and future of Rebel Femme, along with a strong management team & systems, helps overcome the struggles.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Some tips I'd give anyone looking to start a business are to write out goals, follow through with them, and don't give up! Remember, it's easy to give up, but each tiny step you take is still a step forward to living your dream. My dream took me 10 years! Nothing is overnight.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website:
https://mirellamanelli.com/
https://rebelfemme.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MirellaManelliHair/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mirellamanelli/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirella-manelli/
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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