Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanice Fitzpatrick.
Shanice, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started doing hair when I was in high school. I always use to play in my friend’s hair, my own hair, and my doll’s hair when I was younger because my older cousin taught me how to braid when I was five. By the time that in was 13 I knew how to do braids, quick weaves, ponytails and natural “wraps”. When I became a sophomore more of my peers started reaching out for me to do their hair and they were paying. I set up shop in my bedroom at my mom’s house, and it got so busy my mom used to be so mad. I did a few semesters in college where my major was broadcast journalism. Midway through class I quit, and a week later, I signed up for cosmetology school. I began working in an already established salon, and there I gained a mentor and friend in the owner Deena. She took my raw talent and molded me into a master stylist. After completing cosmetology school and passing my state boards, I had so much clientele that I decided that it was time to open up my own salon. At 23, SMF Hair Studio was born.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It wasnt a smooth road at all. It was very bumpy I have employed over 20+ stylists, and I also opened three locations through out the years. The biggest obstacle was actually learning how to be a leader and mentor to my staff and also how to be a boss on the back end. It was always in me, but being so young I wasnt prepared for what came with it. I went from working 8-hour days to having a responsibility 24/7. During my journey, I also became a mother so juggling motherhood and being an entrepreneur….I don’t think anyone could have prepared me for that.
As you know, we’re big fans of SMF Hair Studio. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
SMF Hair Studio is a multicultural salon located in Pittsburgh Southside. We specialize in natural hair care, extensions, braids, bridal hair and photoshoots. When opening, we wanted to change the narrative about black-owned hair salons. We offer an upscale atmosphere with a personalized feel. We are appointment only to focus on and cater to our clientele, which gives our clients personal time with their stylist. We want everyone who walks in to feel comfortable and to relax while being serviced and to walk out feeling even more beautiful than they did when they came in. I’m most proud of the team that I built over the years. Your team of stylist directly represent you and your brand. The girls are professional, personable and beautiful inside and out. Also, add hardworking and dedicated, they have truly made a great addition and helped mold the salon.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I see myself taking a step back from being behind the chair and educating future stylists. I feel like I’ve done this for over 15 years, so it’s time to pass the torch. My end goal is to open up my own cosmetology school.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.smfscheduling.as.me
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smfhairstudio_/
Image Credits
JVisionary Visuals
