Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda McGrath, owner of Velvet Lounge Hair Parlour, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
This location in Kitsilano, just outside of downtown Vancouver has hosted a Barbershop for 100 years, changing names and owners only three times. The concept at the Velvet Lounge is like taking a trip back to the 1920's Gatsby Era, with a smoke lounge feel. We specialize in being the Hair Parlour that gives everyone an exceptional hairstyle, as well as an enjoyable experience. From the inclusion you feel when you walk in with our casual vibe to walking out, looking and feeling fabulous. In addition to the amazing skills of our staff and the comfort of the spot itself, we are also devoted to sustainability and use quality products like Davines. Quality is never compromised, and sustainability is a key focus of our business. Check out www.greencirclesalons.ca to see the steps we take to operate as conscious as possible.
Tell us about yourself
I was always into hair and makeup, coming from a dance background. It was actually one of my dance teachers that pushed me to go after hairstyling as a career. I trained in Edmonton, then was lucky enough to work with TIGI and was able to educate and participate in hair shows all over North America. What I learned pretty quickly was that I actually appreciated the relationships I was building behind the chair over my dream of becoming a "famous hairstylist" that traveled the world. I love being a part of people's lives, day to day, and making them feel the best I possibly can.
Velvet Lounge was created with so much love and the idea that a group of hairstylists could work together in a co-op chair rental situation. We help one another out, share clients, and care for the salon like it's our home. It motivates me every day to see people working together as a team, even when we are all our own businesses within a business.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is creating a supportive space for individuals to grow, work together peacefully, and push each other to be their most authentic selves. Since we opened in 2015, we have had 2 of our past stylists move out of Vancouver with confidence to eventually open their own salons elsewhere in the province. I'm so proud of them!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The most challenging thing has been when our wonderful chair renters have left us to pursue their own dreams, and we need to fill their place. It's such a delicate ecosystem we have created that it can be challenging to find the right fit. It's not something you want to rush or push, but it's important to keep those chairs full to make sure we can take care of our fabulous guests.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do it with love; the money will come.
- Don't rush the process, and have patience.
- Never stop learning; education is key.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Owning your own business is one of the most challenging and rewarding things you can do… It's definitely worth it! Go out there and create it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.velvetloungehair.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/velvetloungehairparlour/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/velvetlounge_hairparlour/
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.
