Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kendra Parks. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kendra, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

I think in order for someone to be successful, they have to be well disciplined. I read a quote that said “ Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments”. There has to be actions and hard work behind our plans, in order for us to see the fruits of our labor. We can’t just simple talk about the things we want to achieve, without doing the work and taking the necessary steps to attain them. In business, we can’t allow our moods or how we feel, dictate our actions.

Kendra, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a hairstylist located in Kansas City, Mo. I have been in the field for 7 years. My love for hair started at an early age. I was about 8 years old when I started styling my own hair. In late 2011, I left my banking job and attended Cosmetology school. After school, I had to go back to banking full-time, while practicing in my field part-time. In 2016, I was about to leave my job to pursue cosmetology full-time. I was an employee at the salon I worked at as I built my clientele. I later transitioned to booth rental. I share this information because there’s not just one way to start in your career field. At times we have obstacles that we must over come.

I offer a range of hairstyling services, which include silk presses, hair color, hairstyling, facial waxing, and freelance services but I specialize in hair extensions.

One of the problems I’ve assisted my clients with is making them feel confident from experiencing hair loss. Whether it’s due to medication or age, I feel it’s part of my job to work with them to provide a service to boost their confidence. I believe sometimes our emotions are attached to our hair. When you look good, you feel good.

I believe what sets me apart from other stylist is my professionalism. Being able to manage time when providing services is very important. My attention to detail. I cater to my clients and provide an intimate luxury salon experience. I continue to stay current with the styles that are trending.

One of the things I’m most proud of is being able to work in the field of my passion. I am able to show my children that anything is attainable with hard work and determination. They’ve been able to watch my journey first hand. It’s important for our youth to see examples set before them because they are the future.

What I want potential clients and readers to know about me is that I’m committed to changing certain beauty standards within my community. My goal is to educate my client on what’s best for them to achieve their beauty goals. Client satisfaction is my number 1 priority. When clients sit in my chair they can trust my level of expertise. I count it a blessing to be able to do what I love and provide a living for my family. I have accomplished a lot but I have not yet reached my full potential. There’s so much more to learn and experiences to have. I am so excited for the future and can’t wait to see what’s in store for myself and my clients.

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

Towards the end of 2018 an opportunity was presented for me to open my own salon. In 2020 we experienced the pandemic, which changed how I operated my business. During that time, the complex where my salon was located, was sold to new owners. A little over a year later, I was told by the owners that they would not be renewing my lease. I decided to downsize and move into a salon suite. I had to adjust to my new norm but my clients loved the intimacy of my suite. I’ve learned in life that things are always changing and you have to be willing to pivot when needed. I also believe the outcome of your life depends on your perspective and how you view life experiences . I don’t look at that experience as a failure, but I see it as a lesson.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I think what helped build my reputation in the beauty industry is my consistency. It allows clients to know what to look for and helps builds meaningful relationships. Those relationships translate into my clients trusting me enough to refer potential clients to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.vagaro.com/crownofglory
• Instagram: Crownedbykparks
• Facebook: Crown of Glory
• Other: TikTok: crownedbyken