We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kendall Koehler. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kendall below.
Kendall, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Finding those key vendors can often be make or break for a brand. Can you talk to us about how you found your key vendors?
I had to find a manufacturer for hair extensions. Unfortunately, our industry can have some gatekeeping so it took me quite some time to find out how to even tackle this. I flew to Hong Kong for one of the larger business to business beauty shows. I scheduled with multiple vendors/factories until I found one I felt comfortable working with. From there we began a year long journey of testing hair extension weight, hair types, lengths, etc. It was a long year. My sister and I both were the guinea pigs, so to speak. We finally came to the final product a year later. I am now the only one with this particular extension. It is the heaviest I-tip on the market at 2.2 grams.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Beauty School was not on my radar. I had just graduated with my second Bachelors degree, was sitting for the LSAT, and applying to a masters program in Forensic Psychology. And then I went through a major life changing divorce. I lost everything. I came home and wasn’t sure what I was going to do. My best friends girl friend was a platform artist for Paul Mitchell and she suggested I go to beauty school. She thought I would be good at it and suggested I tour the campus.
I toured the campus and honestly felt a spark I hadn’t felt in a while. I applied and was enrolled within two months. Within two months of enrolling, I entered a two competitions for fashion week that were in Austin and San Antonio. I won San Antonio was the Director of Hair and Makeup for two shows. I won two photoshoots submitted to Austin, and also the Timothy White award. I wasn’t even licensed! It was the push I needed to know I made the right decision to change career paths.
Upon graduation, I went immediately out on my own in the industry. While not the most ideal path, I knew I only wanted to work for me. I started to get hired for music videos, movies and film, high profile clients, etc. Once I settled in my space, I started to pursue my own hair extension line.
The last step was a salon expansion. I actually took over the space of the very first salon I ever worked in. It was all coming full circle. I signed the lease…and three weeks later we were shut down for quarantine. I was terrified. BUT here I am two year post quarantine, still standing, still thriving. I am so grateful for the industry.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
CONSISTENCY. Consistency in this industry in KEY. Showing up every day for your clients and staff is absolutely integral to success.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
All of our clients are mostly word of mouth and social media. It is so important to have an online presence. It gives you way to showcase your work and connect with your clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mayhemboutiquesalon.com
- Instagram: mayhembykendall
Image Credits
Mayhem Boutique Salon- image owner