We recently connected with Akeya Smith and have shared our conversation below.

Akeya , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

My journey began with a vision while working as a Youth Developmental Specialist for ACS Youth Juvenile Detention. I’ve always had a passion for doing hair, but I also needed to secure a stable future. I worked for the agency for 15 years, gaining many experiences—some good, some challenging—but I always made the best of every opportunity. During that time, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Social Science, became a licensed cosmetologist, and later a certified trichologist.

As the years went by, the work environment became increasingly stressful and toxic. The joy I once felt from being of service started to fade. After suffering an injury, I began working light duty from home during COVID, but I felt unfulfilled—my mind wasn’t expanding, and I no longer felt like I was pouring into others. One night, I had a dream about a ramp, and shortly after, I received an email about commercial properties. I shared my vision with my family, but many thought it wasn’t the right time. My response was simple: “The economy will get better.”

I began searching on LoopNet, and by day three, I found three locations that caught my eye. Financially, I wasn’t ready, but my faith was bigger than my fears. When I saw the space that would become Honey’s Beauty Chateau, it was completely unfinished—no walls, tiles, sinks, or toilets. Still, I saw my vision clearly. Despite setbacks, including a contractor who ran off with my money, I persisted, even taking legal action to complete the project.

I returned to work while simultaneously building my dream—creating a safe space for others to experience healing and restoration. Three years later, Honey’s Beauty Chateau proudly stands as a functional Trichology Hair Restoration Center and full-service salon located at 379 Dewitt Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11207.

Akeya , 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?

My name is Akeya Smith, founder and owner of Honey’s Beauty Chateau. I’ve been passionate about hair since the age of 12, and that passion led me to create a brand built on care, education, and restoration. During COVID, I attended Trichology school to deepen my understanding of scalp health and hair loss. Out of that experience came my trademarked and patented hair care line, HBC Elav8, with the slogan “Your Hair is Our Care.”

Before launching my salon, I ran a weekend program called “Pretty Me” for youth in detention, teaching them grooming, hygiene, and self-expression. My certifications in cosmetology, trichology, carpentry, electrical work, and CASAC-T (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee) have all shaped my approach to business. They help me connect with clients through empathy, hands-on skill, and communication.

At Honey’s Beauty Chateau, we specialize in hair restoration, scalp disorder treatments, and holistic hair care, offering both communal and private spaces for clients who need comfort and confidentiality. What sets us apart is that our salon is more than a place to get your hair done—it’s a healing space for the mind, body, and spirit.

I’m most proud that my business stands as proof that faith, perseverance, and community support can turn any dream into reality.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

During my first year in business, my mother passed away. It was the most painful time of my life. I wanted to give up, leave the city, and hide from the world. But the love and support I received from clients, family, friends, and former colleagues reminded me of my purpose. Many didn’t even realize that they were the reason I kept going. Their encouragement became my strength and pushed me forward when I felt like I had nothing left to give.

Have you ever had to pivot?

The last conversation I had with my mother was about how unhappy I was at my job and how much I wanted to focus on my business. I was exhausted trying to balance both, but financially, I felt stuck. After her passing, I realized that peace and purpose were worth more than a paycheck.

Leaving my job allowed me to fully invest in Honey’s Beauty Chateau. I created a space for men and women dealing with scalp disorders and hair loss—a place where no one feels judged. If a client feels uncomfortable being in the open area, we provide a private space just for them.

Since launching, I’ve had the honor of partnering with Nike and Dick’s Sporting Goods for their “It’s Her Shot” campaign, worked with the City of New York SYEP program, mentoring and employing 10 summer youth interns, and participated in multiple community outreach programs.

Before I pursued cosmetology full-time, I also earned carpentry and electrical certifications, which helped me literally build my dream. It wasn’t easy—I had no funds and no experience in business construction—but I had faith, community, and determination.

Today, I can proudly say that Honey’s Beauty Chateau is not just a salon—it’s a movement of healing, confidence, and empowerment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Honeysbeautychateau.com
• Instagram: Honeys_Beauty_Chateau

Image Credits

awadawa