We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashley Mari. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashley below.

Ashley , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. One of our favorite things to brainstorm about with friends who’ve built something entrepreneurial is what they would do differently if they were to start over today. Surely, there are things you’ve learned that would allow you to do it over faster, more efficiently. We’d love to hear how you would go about setting things up if you were starting over today, knowing everything that you already know.

If I were starting over, I would have taken more time to get the education and licensing needed to be in the hair industry. Although, I am self taught it does help open other doors, if you are fully equipped to work at a salon. I went to school for business and that did help with my idea of having my own salon.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started braiding hair at a young age of 3 or 4 years old. I remember braiding Barbie Dolls hair and then my younger brother’s hair. I did my hair a lot in middle school and high-school, where I eventually started a small hustle offering braids for pay. It was a dream of mine to be a Hair Stylist and own a salon, which came Trippy Stylez Mobile Hair Salon. I offer an at home hair experience for clients and hope to continue the journey.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

During 2020, I had alot of changes occur for myself and business. I had to move from where I normally did hair and decided to travel to other states with my brand. It was a risk and I went between loyal clients and trying to find a new market of clients. I think I learned to think outside the box and be fearless when you have big dreams.

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

Most of the funding for my business has come out of my pocket. I also did lot of other side gigs and was in the music scene where I made some money. Now, I do have a few jobs that I work in order to keep the money up!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bonfire.com/tsw-on-tha-block-line/
• Instagram: @trippystylezworld

Image Credits
2nd row photocredit : joncarnesphotography