We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sharonda Walker a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Sharonda, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
The Mission Behind Slay University: Restoring Excellence to Hair Care
As a stylist with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen it all. From hot combs to flat irons, from at-home relaxers gone wrong to the rise (and occasional fall) of lace fronts, I’ve been on the frontlines of hair care. My journey began at Dudley Cosmetology University, Sure, it was a trade school, but my time there was much more than that—it felt like a college experience. Living on campus, I immersed myself in a world dedicated to excellence in hair care.
Dudley wasn’t just about cutting, curling, and styling—it was about understanding the science of hair. While on campus I was fortunate enough to tour the Dudley factory, witnessing firsthand how products were created with intention and ingredients tailored to the specific needs of textured hair. That experience lit a fire in me. I didn’t just want to do hair; I wanted to elevate it. And now, all these years later, I’m inspired to bring that same standard of education and innovation to the next generation of stylists.
Over the years, though, I’ve watched this industry lose its shine. The focus has shifted from hair care to hair cover-ups. Education has dwindled, leaving many stylists with little understanding of the craft, and clients have lost trust in the very professionals meant to care for their crowns. Clients are now expected to do more prep work at home before even stepping into a salon—and then they’re overcharged for a subpar experience. It’s no wonder so many people have turned to DIY solutions, YouTube tutorials, and even giving up on salons altogether.
But here’s the thing: I’m not one to sit back and watch the industry crumble. My mission is to bring back the respect, skill, and artistry that all hair care deserves. I want to revive the trust between stylist and client. That’s where Slay University comes in.
Slay University isn’t just another hair school—it’s a movement. It’s about teaching aspiring stylists not just how to style hair but why certain methods and products matter. It’s about giving them the tools to understand hair care from the inside out, so they can provide exceptional service with confidence. I want Slay University to be a place where future stylists learn to approach their craft with integrity, artistry, and respect for the culture.
And trust me, this isn’t just a pipe dream. If “Slay by Shay” is already ringing bells in the streets, imagine what’s going to happen when Slay University becomes a household name. Just like Dudley products, we’re going to create a legacy. We’re bringing back the science of hair care, the pride in our craft, and the trust that’s been lost.
The beauty industry has watered down, but I’m here to pour into it. Slay University is where we’ll cultivate the next wave of hair care professionals who will do more than just style hair—they’ll slay it, every time. Get ready, because the future of hair care is about to get a serious upgrade.
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?
About Me and Slay by Shay Hair Studio
Hello my name is Sharonda Walker, and my story begins in St. Louis, Missouri, where my love for hair started before I even knew it would be a career for me . As a kid, I spent more time playing with hair than toys, and by the time I was a teenager, I was working in beauty shops as a shampoo tech, soaking up all the skills I could . Also worked at 2 funeral homes doing hair for the deceased because, in my book, everyone deserves to look their best, no matter what.
After High school I attended Dudley Cosmetology University, Kernersville North Carolina where I graduated at the top of my class. Dudley wasn’t just a school to me—it was the foundation of my dedication to excellence in hair care, teaching me the science, artistry, and professionalism that have shaped my career and my vision for the future.
Now, as a wife of 15 years and a proud mother of three,
Then came a big move to Texas. Starting over in a new state wasn’t easy. I went from an established clientele to hustling for every new client, but giving up was never an option. Slowly but surely, I rebuilt my business, one loyal client at a time.
Now, 24 years later, I’m thriving in an industry I love, combining my passion for hair with my drive to keep growing. Through this process ive had the honor to be figured in local hair magazines and black sophisticatics hair magazine, which as a kid loved to look at who would have thought now to see myself in it ! Hey Dreams do come true !!
From my roots in St. Louis to my success in Texas, this journey has been full of lessons, hustle, and a whole lot of heart—and trust me, I’m just getting started.
I specialize in precision ,custom cuts and custom hair units for alopecia clients . Giving transformations that turn heads and spark confidence. My journey into the hair industry began with a dream to make people feel beautiful and uplifted, and that dream took shape from Dudley . My time there gave me not just the technical skills but also a deep understanding of hair care science—an education that’s rare in today’s industry.
At Slay by Shay Hair Studio Suite, I bring artistry and care together, offering services that go beyond the ordinary.. My studio is a space where clients not only leave with stunning hair but also with a renewed sense of confidence and self-expression.
What sets me apart is my commitment to hair care first. I don’t just focus on the style; I focus on the health and integrity of your hair, ensuring it’s vibrant and resilient. I also stay on top of trends while honoring timeless techniques, giving my clients a perfect balance of modern and classic and edgy for any age .
The challenges I solve for my clients go beyond hair. Whether it’s rebuilding trust after bad salon experiences, teaching maintenance tips, or simply giving them the confidence to walk into any room and own it, I’m here to provide more than just a service—I deliver a full experience.
What I’m most proud of is the trust and loyalty of my clients. Seeing the smiles, the happy tears, and the transformation from within is what fuels my passion. Slay by Shay Hair Studio Suite is more than a salon; it’s a community built on trust, expertise, and a shared love for the beauty of hair.
To those who follow my journey or are considering becoming part of the Slay family: Know that when you step into my chair, you’re not just getting a hairstyle—you’re getting dedication, passion, and years of expertise tailored specifically for you. At Slay by Shay, your hair is my canvas, and every style is a masterpiece.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The Best Source of Getting New Clients in the Hair Industry
At Slay by Shay Hair Studio Suite, I’ve learned that the best way to attract new clients isn’t just about having the best skills (though trust me, I’ve got those, too). It’s about creating an experience that makes people feel seen, valued, and absolutely stunning. Here’s how I’ve built a growing and loyal clientele:
1. Word of Mouth
Nothing beats the power of happy clients spreading the word. When I slay a hairstyle, it’s not just about the look—it’s about how my clients feel when they leave my chair. That confidence and joy are contagious, and they’ll share their experience with friends, family, and coworkers.
2. Social Media Presence
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are my digital portfolio. I showcase my work, from sleek pixie cuts to bold transformations, while sharing behind-the-scenes moments that show my personality and passion. My followers don’t just see my skills; they see my dedication to the craft.
3. Consistency in Service
Every client, whether they’re a first-timer or a regular, gets top-tier service. I focus on listening to their needs, offering solutions, and delivering styles that last. Consistency builds trust, and trust turns first-timers into lifelong clients
4. Education and Expertise
Clients trust me because I prioritize their hair health. By staying educated on the latest trends, techniques, and products, I offer more than just a trendy style—I offer confidence in knowing their hair is in the best hands.
5. Referral Programs
My loyal clients are rewarded for bringing in new faces. It’s a win-win: they share their favorite stylist, and I get the chance to build relationships with new clients who already trust my work.
6.Personalized Experiences
At Slay by Shay, it’s not just a haircut; it’s a tailored experience. I take the time to understand each client’s lifestyle, preferences, and goals, so every style feels uniquely theirs.
Final Thoughts
The secret to gaining new clients is simple: show love to the ones you already have, and the rest will follow. When you prioritize quality, care, and community, people take notice. At Slay by Shay, I don’t just create hairstyles—I create experiences that make clients feel like their best selves. And when they feel that, they’ll tell the world.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Advice for Building a Clientele on Social Media
Starting from scratch to build your clientele through social media can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy and consistency, it’s a game-changer. Here’s my advice to get you started and growing:
1. Show Your Work Consistently
Post high-quality photos and videos of your work. Whether it’s a sleek pixie cut, a flawless color job, or a transformation, let your talent shine.
Use natural light for photos, and focus on capturing details like texture, shine, and the overall style.
Consistency is key—aim to post at least 3–5 times a week.
2. Engage, Don’t Just Post
3. Create Educational Content
Share hair care tips, maintenance routines, and styling tutorials that cater to your ideal audience. Position yourself as a knowledgeable expert, and they’ll trust you with their hair.
Use captions to explain your process or highlight what makes your services unique.
4. Utilize Trending Tools and Features
Leverage trending sounds, hashtags, and features like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts to increase visibility.
Experiment with before-and-after transformations, time-lapse videos, and client testimonials to keep your content engaging.
5. Use Strategic Hashtags
Use hashtags specific to your niche and location (e.g., #ShortHairSpecialist, #AtlantaHairStylist). This helps potential clients nearby find you.
Include trending beauty and hair-related hashtags to expand your reach.
6. Be Authentic
Show your personality! Clients want to know the person behind the chair. Share behind-the-scenes moments, your story, and why you love what you do.
Be relatable—people connect with authenticity.
7. Run Promotions and Giveaways
Run a giveaway where followers tag friends for a chance to win a free or discounted service. This boosts engagement and visibility.
8. Show Client Testimonials
Post reviews, before-and-after photos, and videos of happy clients. Social proof is powerful—it helps build trust with potential clients who haven’t met you yet.
9. Collaborate with Influencers and Local Businesses
10. Be Patient and Persistent
Building a clientele takes time. Don’t get discouraged by slow growth—stay consistent, keep improving your craft, and trust the process.
Final Tip
Social media is your portfolio, but your personality is what sets you apart. Let people see your passion and dedication to your craft. When they feel your energy and see your talent, they’ll want to sit in your chair. Trust me !!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Slaybyshay.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: @stylz_by_shay
