Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Edwards.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always dreamed about being a salon owner but as time went on and I got older, the dream sort of died. I had been to cosmetology school countless times and it always seemed like life was blocking that goal. First, I became pregnant, then moved in with my child’s father and there were domestic issues. Then I was deployed to Iraq. This time I was like it’s not meant for me to be a hairstylist. Eventually, I graduated college with a B.I.S. theatre concentration and quickly realized I needed a way to support my son and myself. So back to cosmetology school, I went. This time I was like, “If something crazy happens, I’m not going back to school again to get this cosmetology license.” Thankfully I made it through the course. However, exactly a week prior to my final state board exam, my daddy (best friend) passed away from breast cancer. This was a tragedy for me. But even in the face of adversity, I passed my state board practical and became a licensed Master Cosmetologist in the state of Georgia.
Now, this is not my reasoning for starting my business but the foundation of my fight. Now after working in a salon for a few years, I realized that I didn’t like for other people to be able to control the type of money that I could make. It’s unfortunate but people can be emotional in this industry and inflict pain in ways that are detrimental to you and your family. I quickly realized that while people may like you or think that you’re a good person, they will still take advantage of you. I was working in a salon particular salon and moved up quickly gaining a good reputation, unfortunately my positive reputation took a negative turn. Not because of client complaints but because of administrative immaturity. This eventually contributed to me not being able to pay my bills. I fell behind on rent and was evicted from my apartment. That hurt my heart, I then realized I had to take control of my finances for me and my son. And that’s why I started my business. I have now been in business for two years, this December 2021. It hasn’t been easy but it’s been worth it. That’s the birth of VivaLuscious Salon and I’m here to stay.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it has not been a smooth road. When I first opened my salon it was December of 2019, right before covid hit. I had so many reservations about stepping out on my own and if I could actually maintain a mini salon for myself. Then covid hit and it seemed like everything would be a train wreck. But God came through. Once the shutdown was over, my clients who followed me have been so loyal and supportive. With my clients coupled with the PPP loan I went from barely being able to make the rent to having my rent on time, fully furnishing & stocking my salon. There are times it gets slow now however my salon rent is always paid and my home is not lacking.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a professional Master Cosmetologist. My foundation is in healthy natural hair care, but I specialize in color, cuts & hair extensions. I am mostly known for healthy hair care. I am most proud of my strength and courage to step out as an independent salon owner. That’s one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to make. It was scary but I did it and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I believe my character, customer service and personality set me apart from other hairstylist. Being a service provider is all about building a relationship with your clients. They want to feel comfortable and know that they can trust you to provide not only just the service but a full experience. Whether it’s the client just wanting to have a silent relaxing service or a therapy session. I deal with the client as a whole person, providing them with knowledge to help them solve problems they may have when they come to their appointment. I had a client recently tell me “You actually care about your clients.” and she is right. I genuinely do care about my clients and they feel that energy every time they see me.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
A lot of people find it surprising that I served 12 years in the Army National Guard but also have a B.I.S. in Theater Communications. They find that very interesting however befitting. It’s always funny to me when I tell people that kind of information and they’re like, “those two careers are polar opposite but I can definitely see you in both careers.”
Pricing:
- Microlink starting price $620
- Sew-in starting price $250
- Sleek ponytail starting price $85
- Signature cuts starting price $75
- Wig Install starting price $250
Contact Info:
- Email: info@vivalusciousglamhair.com
- Website: www.vivaluscious.com
- Instagram: @vk_theStylist @VivaLuscious
- Facebook: @VivaLuscious
Image Credits
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