Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Boutwell.
Jillian, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am an only child and an Army Brat. I grew up mostly in Germany, where I graduated high school. During a brief stateside tour, I was invited to a Bronner Brothers Hair show and that pretty much set the course. I was 15 years old. I worked corporate jobs, assisted my parents’ retail business, and did college courses on the side. I got married and moved to the Atlanta area. My job didn’t transfer as promised, so I started Empire Beauty School to fill my time. I’d found my place. My love. Times had gotten tough by then, so by the time I graduated, my family and I were living in a hotel room. I remember checking out of one hotel, going to Macon for state board and checking into another. I opened my salon a year later with my earned income credit. Lol. Smh. I didn’t know how I was going to pay for or take care of anything. Or any months thereafter. But I had faith. And now I’ve been in business for 15 years. In 2013 I went back to Empire and became a Cosmetology Instructor.
I’ve had other employees and stylists over the years, but now I prefer being solo, doing my own thing. Along with hair care, I encourage, provide, and teach natural health methods, conduct inspirational consultations, and provide body sculpting. I look to teaching other women and my community the things I’ve learned along the way and wealth-building techniques as I learn also.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been easy and there were years of tough times. I’ve lost a lot and gained a lot over the years. I’m no longer married and I have gained lots of wisdom. I have a 17-year-old daughter who’s a High School Scholar going into her Senior year. And a 21-year-old son, an Army vet. So challenges and obstacles don’t even ruffle my feathers anymore.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I have a Hair Salon. I specialize in the care and health of natural African American hair. However, I provide healthy solutions for ALL hair types. Meaning I am not a fan of hair extensions and what it has done to the health of hair. I’m known for being knowledgeable and personable. My Salon feels like home and I hope when my clients leave, they feel like old friends. I am proud of the fact that I’ve been able to be transparent in my journey. And hope others may find inspiration when looking at me. To just keep pushing. I don’t need limelight nor spotlight in order to shine. I have a large clientele that includes Teachers, Nurses, Doctors, Lawyers, Authors, Non-profits, models, actors, pastors, and I also have a contract with a local nursing home. I volunteer for hospices as well.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I would have listened to my first mind. My first thought. I wouldn’t have seconded guessed. Or listened to others. I would have said no more often. Taken more risks. I would have trusted the God in me more.
Contact Info:
- Email: jillishairsalon@gmail.com
- Instagram: @jillis_hair_salon_
- Facebook: Jilli’s Hair Salon
- Twitter: @jillib7
- Other: www.styleseat.com/jillib
Image Credit:
Jilli’s Hair Salon
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
