We recently connected with Shawntae Bryant and have shared our conversation below.

Shawntae, appreciate you joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

Starting Bryant & Kennedy Luxury Studio was a journey filled with both joy and challenges. Our first step was finding the right location—one that would not only feel like home but also attract potential walk-in clients. That search took time, but eventually, the perfect space practically fell into our laps.

Next came choosing a name that would truly represent what we wanted to create for our clients. As our idea transformed from a dream on paper into something real, we knew it was time to make it official. Securing all the city and state licensing wasn’t the most exciting process, but once we were recognized as a registered business, we felt unstoppable.

The remodeling phase tested our patience and left us with a few bumps in the road, but all of that faded the moment we reached our grand opening day. It was surreal, I felt as though I was floating through the entire ceremony. The turnout was incredible, and the support from family, friends, and the community was overwhelming.

Then reality set in. The first six months as new salon owners were anything but easy. Things began to break, income was slow, and the weight of ownership felt heavy. What started as such a joyous experience began to feel like a nightmare.

But in the midst of the struggle, we held onto faith. We prayed daily, even when we couldn’t see how things would work out. And just like that ,in God’s perfect timing everything began to turn around. What once seemed uncertain became a testimony of perseverance, resilience, and grace.

Shawntae, 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?

Bryant & Kennedy Luxury Studio was born from a vision of excellence. After years of working in traditional salons and following rules that often put speed before quality, I knew my clients deserved something more. I dreamed of creating a space where every detail reflected care, luxury, and relaxation—a place where women and men alike could feel valued, beautiful, and truly seen.

On this journey, I crossed paths with individuals who shared the same commitment to excellence. Among them was someone who became more than just a colleague—she became my business partner. Together, we built Bryant & Kennedy Luxury Studio, a haven designed to transform ordinary salon visits into extraordinary experiences.

What sets us apart is that luxury here isn’t limited to one look, style, or service. We welcome every client who desires an elevated experience. From natural hair care to extensions, from precision styling to nail services, each member of our team brings their own artistry and special touch of luxury.

The moment clients step into our studio, they are surrounded by an atmosphere designed to calm the mind, inspire confidence, and renew the spirit. Our promise is simple: to provide the highest quality of self-care services while making every client feel at home in luxury.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Bringing Bryant & Kennedy Luxury Studio to life required creativity, discipline, and determination. Unlike many businesses, we didn’t rely on loans or grants to open our doors. Instead, we found unique ways to fund our vision while staying true to our values.

We launched an Amazon registry and used social media to share our journey, allowing clients, friends, and supporters to contribute directly by purchasing items for the salon. At the same time, my partner and I organized a “hairathon,” dedicating long hours behind the chair to raise funds for essential remodeling and plumbing upgrades. Every extra dollar we earned, we saved with purpose, knowing it was an investment in our future.

Through these combined efforts, and with the unwavering support of our community, we were able to transform our dream into reality. In just eight months, we went from vision to grand opening—proof that with faith, discipline, and persistence, anything is possible.

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

I have been a licensed cosmetologist for 20 years, and even before I started school, I knew my ultimate dream was to open a salon. For years I worked hard toward that goal, but after several unsuccessful attempts to purchase a salon, I found myself burnt out and shifted my focus to a different career path.

I entered the medical field with plans to become an OR nurse. While attending community college, I came within two classes of entering the nursing program. During that time, I also earned my certification as a state-tested nursing assistant, which led me to work in a nursing home for several months. What I didn’t expect was how that role would bring me back to my first love—hair.

Many of the residents I cared for were sophisticated individuals with specific grooming needs. Using my cosmetology skills, I began helping them with their hair care, and word quickly spread that I was a licensed professional. Soon, coworkers began asking me to style their hair as well. Those experiences reignited the passion I thought I had lost.

Not long after, I returned to the salon world, where my now-business partner and friend brought me back onto her team. She later promoted me to a manager’s position, giving me the opportunity to run a salon located within a billion-dollar company. That experience completely reshaped my understanding of what a successful business could be—and it reminded me of the vision I set for myself so many years before.

Today, that vision is no longer just a dream. It is the foundation of Bryant & Kennedy

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Bkluxstudios.com
• Instagram: arabellacreationsbyshawntae
• Facebook: Shawntae Bryant
• Youtube: Arabellacreations

Image Credits

Glory
Terra