Today we’d like to introduce you to Leandra Drew.
Leandra, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I grew up with a love for hair and started actually doing hair when I was in Middle School. After I graduated high school, I went straight to Cosmetology School and subsequently obtained my license. I got my first job a Smart Styles in Augusta where I was born and raised. I’ve never held any other type of job, my entrance into the workforce was directly into the beauty industry.
In 2015, I decided I wanted a change, so I transferred my position to a Smart Styles in Lithonia and began living in Stone Mountain. After working there for a while and seeing the opportunities the Atlanta area had to offer first hand, I decided I wanted to be more than a stylist working for a corporation. I wanted to build my own brand under my own name that people would gravitate to. I was confident in my abilities and that I could make it on my own as an entrepreneur. Thus, Leandra’s Hair Studio was created.
My wife, well at that time my fiancee’, scoured the internet for a home for my vision. We found a studio space in Stone Mountain, not too far from where we were living. It started out slow and I struggled with finding the best techniques to bring customers to my door and show them what I had to offer. After being on my own as an independent stylist for three months, I had my first thousand dollar month. I cried, overjoyed at the thought that I had really taken the first step in beginning to bring my dreams to fruition.
I grew there for over a year and a half, learning from all of those around me about business, marketing and avoiding exhaustion. By the end of 2017, I was married, my business was steady, but I felt there was more I could do. So the search began for a new home for Leandra’s Hair Studio, on that included Atlanta in the address. After looking for two months we found it, Empire Salon Suites, that was the move!
On January 20, 2018, Leandra’s Hair Studio was open for business! My wife and I worked for a week straight decorating the new space and making it functional and when it was done, it felt phenomenal. It was everything I wanted; it was truly what I had envisioned. Constantly growing, going and glowing, that’s my motto in both work and life. Leandra’s Hair Studio isn’t just a job to me or a way to make money, Leandra’s Hair Studio is my dream and my passion that I share with anyone who sits in my chair.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been smooth, patience and perseverance are both keys. To other young women, I would say get out there and just do it. Sometimes you have to take a leap and hope you can hit the ground running. If not, walk, jog and then run; the most important thing is to take the chance and begin the pursuit. In today’s society, women, in particular, face a myriad of challenges. I think, as women we see those obstacles and immediately imagine breaking whatever barrier it is down; women are powerful and cunning. We can look at your community and see, a female mayor is missing or maybe there aren’t any female business owners in your neighborhood. I encourage young women to shatter anything obstructing their path to success.
What should we know about Leandra’s Hair Studio? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I specialize in hair cutting, coloring techniques and natural hair. I’m known for the work I do with natural hair.
I would definitely categorize myself a Natural Hair Specialist, I love to work with and help others maintain their natural hair and show them the beauty it has. My customer service is something I feel sets me apart from others, I like to go the extra mile if it’s raining I often walk clients to their cars so they can look flawless despite the weather. It’s important to me that they remember my number one priority is achieving their hair care needs, I’m dedicated to exceeding their expectations and when they step into Leandra’s Hair Studio; they are walking into a professional environment.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
I love to read! Currently, I’m reading Issa Rae’s, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl; I find it relate-able and honest. Books like this are empowering and they keep me reaching for the stars, it really proves that no matter the circumstances you can become your best “YOU”. I also enjoy success driven books like Rich Dad Poor Dad and The Young Entrepreneur’s Guide to Starting and Running a Business; these types of books give me ideas and strategies to apply to my business. I don’t subscribe to any particular blog or podcast, but I spend an abundance of time researching various products and reading other entrepreneurs posts on social media.
Contact Info:
- Address: 575 Juniper St NE Suite 202 Atlanta GA, 30308
- Website: www.LeandrasHairStudio.com
- Phone: 706.989.HAIR(4247)
- Email: LeandrasHairStudio@gmail.com
- Instagram: @LeandrasHairStudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeandrasHairStudio
Image Credit:
Leandra’s Hair Studio
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