In this episode of Port St. Lucie Talks, host Dash Hernandez interviews Stephanie, owner and stylist of Boulevard Hair Boutique, a leading salon in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Stephanie shares her journey from stylist to business owner and offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you’re interested in the beauty industry or dreaming of starting your own small business, Stephanie’s story is packed with inspiration and practical advice.
Stephanie’s Journey to Building Boulevard Hair Boutique
Stephanie, the creative force behind Boulevard Hair Boutique, began her career with over 15 years of hairstyling experience. Having worked for multiple salon brands, she felt it was time to take the leap and build something of her own. Stephanie’s passion for education and training other stylists is at the core of her salon’s culture. She emphasizes the importance of growing her team, focusing on personal development and creating a supportive and educational environment for up-and-coming stylists.
Key Achievements and Innovations
- Creating a Luxury Experience: Stephanie’s salon is designed to make every guest feel special. From offering specialty coffee to small but impactful details like hot towel treatments and personalized consultations, Boulevard Hair Boutique goes above and beyond to create a luxurious experience for every client.
- Education and Trends: Stephanie is committed to staying on the cutting edge of beauty trends. She and her team regularly hold training sessions, working with top global brands like L’Oréal Professionnel to ensure they offer the latest in hair care and styling.
- Client-Centered Approach: Rather than calling them clients, Stephanie refers to visitors as “guests.” This mindset is key to fostering a warm, welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home.
Challenges and Successes in Business Ownership
One of the biggest challenges Stephanie faced was transitioning from being an employee to a business owner. She credits her success to the invaluable lessons learned while working under other salon owners, and by implementing business systems she admired in previous roles. The long hours and sacrifices paid off, but she emphasizes the importance of mental health, work-life balance, and having a strong support system at home, particularly as a wife and mother of three.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those looking to start a small business, particularly in the competitive beauty industry, Stephanie offers this advice: “Get clear on your goals and your brand. Write it down, and don’t sway from it.” She stresses the importance of building a strong brand identity and ensuring that all decisions align with that vision. Moreover, she encourages future business owners to invest in personal time and self-care, noting that it’s critical to lead from a place of mental and emotional wellness.
Don’t miss out on hearing Stephanie’s full journey! Learn how she turned her dream into reality and built Boulevard Hair Boutique into a cornerstone of the local beauty scene.
