We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maureen Ella a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Maureen, appreciate you joining us today. What was the most important lesson/experience you had in a job that has helped you as a business owner?

I was working in a full-service salon where I initially worked as a nail technician. While I enjoyed craft, a persistent feeling nudged me towards seeking more. Determined to broaden my skill set, I enrolled in a cosmetology program to complete the hours, while continuing to serve my clients at the salon. The turning point came when I approached my boss, expressing my need to adjust my working hours to accommodate my schooling while continuing to serve my clientele. Regrettably, instead of support, I faced an unexpected setback—termination. My boss couldn’t accommodate the changes in scheduling, leading to my dismissal.
Initially disheartened by this sudden turn of events, little did I know that this seemingly unfavorable situation would lead me to an unforeseen opportunity. It was in this moment of adversity that I stumbled upon the world of bridal beauty.
Had I not been let go from that job, I might not have ventured into the bridal industry, discovering my true passion and eventually charting my own path as an entrepreneur. The setback became the catalyst for a new chapter in my career, propelling me towards becoming my own boss and specializing in bridal hair and makeup services.
Looking back, that unforeseen dismissal was a blessing in disguise. It taught me resilience, nudging me to explore uncharted territories that eventually led me to where I am today—a business owner in the bridal beauty industry.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am the sole creator of The Parlor, a place where wedding day dreams come true. My passion for the beauty industry sparked as a young girl, inspiring me to embark on my journey cosmetology during my high school years. With a passion for making brides feel beautiful and confident, I specialize in bridal hair and makeup. As a licensed cosmetologist in Florida, I have dedicated years of continuous learning, extensive research, and rigorous training. To provide exceptional service to brides, bridesmaids, mother of the bride, mother of the groom, and anyone ready to say “I do.”

For more personalized experience, I have established my own salon suite situated in the flourishing part of St Johns County. I carefully curated this space to show my commitment to creating a serene and welcoming environment where you can relax and indulge in the transformational process of achieving your desired bridal look.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I’m a passionate hairstylist and makeup artist with a specialization in bridal styling, based here in Northeast Florida. My journey began when I immigrated to this country at the age of 12. The frequent moves during my middle school years posed a challenge as I struggled to adapt to different grade levels each year, but it also instilled in me a resilience that shaped my path. During my high school years, I discovered the transformative power of empowering women through my creative talents. Coming from a culture that often prioritizes success solely in the medical field, I found myself following a unique path. Despite the societal expectations, I found my calling in the beauty industry, which has always been my forte. Over time, I became the go-to person for anything related to beauty.
In 2017, I embraced my specialization in bridal hair and makeup, freelancing and honing my skills for several years. However, it was amidst the challenges of the pandemic in 2021 that I made a pivotal decision—to establish my own salon suite. Nestled in the thriving area of St. Johns, this step marked a significant milestone in my career.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

The cornerstone of my success in the bridal industry has been a combination of unwavering dedication and the integration of my cultural values. Coming from a background where hospitality is deeply ingrained, I recognized the importance of going above and beyond for my clients. My commitment to excellence and personalized service stems from this cultural ethos of prioritizing hospitality. I strive to not only meet but exceed the expectations of every bride I work with. This dedication has been fundamental in establishing a reputation that’s built on trust, reliability, and exceptional service.
Moreover, drawing from my cultural background, which emphasizes warmth, attentiveness, and a genuine care for others, has allowed me to connect with clients on a deeper level. I’ve learned that it’s not merely about delivering impeccable hair and makeup but also about creating an experience infused with cultural elements that resonate with each bride.
By leveraging these values, I’ve been able to craft unforgettable moments for brides, infusing a touch of cultural richness into my services. This unique approach has not only helped me stand out but has also contributed significantly to establishing my reputation as a trusted bridal stylist.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.theparlor.info
• Instagram: Maureenattheparlor

Image Credits
Maegan Gaines Photography venue: la Venture Grove