We recently connected with Cassidy Applebach and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Cassidy, thanks for joining us today. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

I graduated cosmetology school at 18 knowing I wanted to be a salon owner. I didn’t quite know what that looked like, but I wanted to work for myself. I wanted the freedom of making my own schedule and working as much or as little as I wanted. I was a young stylist with very few clients so the idea of having overhead was daunting! I booth rented a chair at a local salon while also assisting the owner. It was great way for me to make money while also building my clientele. Five years after working in that salon, a fellow stylist said she found a salon studio and would love to go into business with me. I was terrified. This was what I wanted for so long. What if it didn’t work out? What if I didn’t have enough clients to keep up on the rent? However, I realized this is what I’ve been preparing for. I said yes and it has been the most exciting and fulfilling yes. I’m so thankful I started my career so early. The only way to accomplish a dream is to just jump right in.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’ve heard the term “hairapist” a lot in my career. Being a hairstylist is not only about giving people great hair. It’s about connecting with people. Hearing about their jobs, relationships and children is the best part of my job. I form real, genuine friendships with my clients and it’s so fulfilling.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Building relationships! When someone likes you for who you are and your personality, they enjoy those 2 hours in your chair. They want to come back to hear how your vacation was or how your younger sister is doing in college. When they become your friend, they want their friends to meet you too! It’s and effect like none other.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

Instagram! I follow all of my clients on the ‘gram and it keeps me involved in their lives! I comment and like their posts and it keeps me updated on what’s happening with them. I love when they send me silly reels and I love sending some back! It keeps our friendship growing when they’re not in my chair.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @cassidyapplelocks
• Facebook: cassidyapplelocks