Today we’d like to introduce you to Mercede Hightower.
Hi Mercede, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began doing hair in high school. It was a gift that came naturally to me. I would service my friends and family and worked as an assistant in the salon on weekends. I attended college at the illustrious Spelman College where I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Economics. While in college I studied as an apprentice to retrieve my Master Cosmetology license. I opened my first salon in Smyrna, GA, Salon Bellemay in 2011. I became a National color educator for John Paul Mitchell Systems where I taught product knowledge, hair color and cutting via in salon education courses and in the schools. I then went on to receive my Masters of Science in Management from Troy University. I created Bellemay Naturals which is a product line for naturally curly and coily hair which is sold online and in salon. I started Bellemay Naturals after my own natural hair journey in 2015. I have three daughters with different curly textures which also inspired me to gain more knowledge in ingredients and products and how they affect the hair. In 2022 I opened Bellemay Salon Studios which provides independent salon professionals the space and environment to successfully run their beauty business while offering support and community. We now have two locations in South Fulton and Douglasville. I am a wife and a mom of four children, 3 daughters and one son.
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?
The road has definitely not been smooth. I’ve experienced unforeseen circumstances having to close my first salon in 2014 due to water damage. Sometimes we have to take 1 step back to jump 3 steps ahead. This instance was definitely a learning curve and allowed me to learn how to prepare to come back better! As I stated I am a mom of four. Learning how to prioritize myself, family and business has not been easy. The most important thing that I’ve learned is to first fill your own cup before attempting to fill others. You must be kind to yourself and extend yourself grace. Showing up is half of the battle!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a master cosmetologist/ healthy hair care expert/ and mentor. I am most know for natural hair styling. I am also a Master Colorist.
I am most proud of my product line as its helped many people address hair issues that they may have. Showing women how to care for and nurture their hair is a passion of mine. I’ve received rave reviews on many of our products and that makes me feel good to know that I’m helping people feel like their best selves!
What sets me apart from others is the care that I show and extend to my guests. I love serving others and playing a role in making their day brighter. It’s deeper than a hairstyle, it’s about building confidence and self love and that’s what I get to do everyday!
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
My family. They are the reason and my motivation to go harder everyday. Spending quality time with them always brings me Joy!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bellemaysalonstudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellemaysalonstudios?igsh=MWFvdjJzcW1zY20xdA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17MWFh3NqY/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@bellemaynaturals2661?si=PbwBo04vnV4FTr6G
