We recently connected with Bria Hickman and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Bria, thanks for joining us today. Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?

My mom taught me to braid when I was 10. I used to braid my sisters hair often. People would see her hair and ask who did it and when they found out it was me they would ask me to do theirs and from there my clientele grew. Word of mouth is the best referral, in my opinion. 20+ years later and I’m still flattered when my current clients refer new clients to me.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Bria Hickman. I was born and raised in South Fulton, Tennessee. I graduated high school in 2008, and college in 2017. I have a bachelors degree in Public relations/advertising from Middle Tennessee State University, as well as my cosmetology license. I moved to Jacksonville, FL in 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic and I have been planting my roots here since. I have a 1 year old son and love being a mother.

I started out as a braider. From there I my interest in other hairstyles grew. During my sophomore year in high school, I enrolled in vocational school for cosmetology. I graduated in 2008 and got my license in 2009. I’ve been working in the salon off and on since then.

Entrepreneurship has its pros and cons. I love the freedom of being able to set my own schedule; however, some weeks are overflowing and some weeks tend to be slower. Over the years I’ve learned balance so during my slow periods I’m perfecting my craft, planning my next move and marketing.

Healthy hair care is my niche. I enjoy bringing dull and lifeless hair back to life. I love the look on my clients face when I turn them to the mirror. The boost in confidence makes me proud to be their stylist.

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

When I relocated in 2020, I decided to take some time away from the salon. During that time I worked as an office coordinator for a primary care facility. I worked that position for almost a year before deciding that it was time for me to pivot back into the beauty industry. I started working part time at the doctors office and part time at a salon. Within about 3 months I transitioned back into the salon full time and have been here since. My clientele has grown tremendously, and I’m grateful.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Consistency!! I post consistently on my business social media pages and I also utilize online booking which promotes my business to potential clients as well. My clients also always leave positive reviews which stands out as well. Also, some may think that business cards are outdated, but I would disagree. Business cards are great to have on hand when you’re out and about because you never know when you may see a potential client. Lastly, word of mouth is always nice because potential clients are getting first hand information about the client experience with me.

Contact Info:

• Website: Styleseat.com/briahickman
• Instagram: Blessed Hands 2 Bless You
• Facebook: Blessed Hands 2 Bless You