Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Rice.
Laura Rice, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I got into the beauty industry because I thought it sounded fun, the schooling sounded easy and the schedule was flexible (yes that mattered to me when I was 19). I’ve not only stayed in the industry but have fallen in deeply in love with it and the community it comes with. When I was 4 years into my career I began working at Salon Bordeaux as a booth renter, again loved the flexibility and the opportunity to run my own business within someone’s else’s business, little did I know 8 short years later the shop would be offered to me to purchase. So many things went through my mind in those days that I considered buying the salon, all the selfish parts of me that got into the industry for the freedom and flexibility would be questioned. I finally decided to do it, I got a small business loan and with a lot of help from family and friends was able to not just buy the salon but make it what it is today. We have a full house of so many amazing artists and personalities, all able to fully support themselves and their thriving businesses, nurture client relationships and offer an overwhelming sense of comfort within our space.
Great, 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?
Definitely not, but I wouldn’t have wanted it to be. Every bump I’ve hit I’ve learned to stop, realize its minor, figure out why it’s happening and move forward. I’ve learned to ask people for help and admit when I’ve been challenged, owning a business has been some of the trickiest times but has made me who I am. I’d say the hardest part of it all was getting the loan, l think that process shaved 10 years off my life. Haha! But, I now realize they were preparing me for the rest of my business owner life. Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork.
Please tell us about Salon Bordeaux.
At Salon Bordeaux we are obsessed with education, we host so many classes throughout the year which we open to any stylists anywhere! We also have staff led education as well so our team is always sharing knowledge with each other. For years our industry was loaded with competition and we strive to change that, we always want to support each other and get to know others in the industry. The energy that creates is felt from our clients as well, so often they mention how comfortable they feel in our space and with the team.
We specialize in custom color and cutting, never sending two clients out with the same exact hair. We specifically design formulas and flattering shapes for each person’s structure.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
There are so many! I was incredibly blessed with a wonderful childhood, I was set up for success. Being loved and believed in unconditionally will really fire up an entrepreneur!
My best memory is probably being in elementary school and inviting my friends over to play “salon”. I’d make them sit for hours while I brushed their hair and pretended to perm and curl. I definitely cut my fair share of barbies and dolls too, and my sweet mom would just keep replacing them with long fresh hair! Whenever I’m curling hair or laughing hysterically with a client I always think “The 8-year-old me is so proud of this adult life”
Contact Info:
- Address: Salon Bordeaux
- Website: Salonbordeauxsd.com
- Phone: 6192826100
- Email: salonbordeaux@yahoo.com
Image Credit:
Merrill Melideo and Jennika Gantes
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