We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Cecilia (CeCe) Lehman a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Cecilia (CeCe), appreciate you joining us today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?
One of the most unexpected challenges I faced was acquiring my salon in 2019. At the time, I was content working as a commission-based employee, focusing solely on my clients and routine cleaning responsibilities. When the opportunity to purchase the salon arose, I was the only person in a position to take it, and I decided to step up. Despite having a limited savings account, a decent credit score, and no prior business ownership experience, I committed myself to succeed. I made the decision to buy the salon in July 2019 and officially took over on October 1st.
Less than six months into my ownership, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, forcing us to close the salon for nearly two months. This was by far the most unexpected and challenging situation I had encountered as a business owner. However, I was determined to navigate through it. I was fortunate to receive various grants and PPP financial assistance, which allowed me to keep my staff employed during the shutdown. Additionally, I took the opportunity to invest in new stations and chairs and renovated the front of the salon.
This unforeseen crisis transformed from a setback into a catalyst for growth. It forced me to become more adaptable, resourceful, and resilient in my approach to business. I genuinely believe that overcoming these obstacles has strengthened my confidence and my ability to face any future challenges.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a seasoned cosmetologist with nearly 14 years of experience, and I chose to enter the beauty industry after leaving college. Growing up, I was the kid who colored her hair with Kool-Aid, so it’s no surprise to me that I’ve found my passion in the world of beauty. Over the past decade, I’ve also dedicated myself to education and mentorship, specializing in lashes. I partner with BorboletaPRO to educate and mentor students, and most weekends you’ll find me teaching via Zoom or traveling across the Midwest and East Coast to lead lash classes in schools.
My salon is a full-service spa and beauty space that specializes in lashes and brows. We are an exclusive Lanza salon for all hair needs, an Aveda-exclusive skincare destination, and Borboleta Beauty’s official lash care provider for our clients. What I believe truly sets me apart is my openness and focus on supporting service providers—encouraging them to offer the services they love rather than forcing a cookie-cutter approach. I also prioritize flexibility in scheduling because maintaining a healthy work-life balance is very important to me.
One of my greatest sources of pride is the reputation we’ve earned for inclusivity. We do not have gender-specific pricing, and we’re proud to be listed on Strandsfortrans.com as a welcoming salon for the LGBTQIA+ community. Ensuring that all our guests feel safe and respected in our space is my top priority, and I’m committed to creating a sanctuary where everyone can feel comfortable and celebrated.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
I’ll be 100% transparent: when I decided to purchase my salon from the previous owner, I had no idea what I was doing. My credit score was barely decent, and I didn’t have any savings saved up. Fortunately, I live in a small community that truly supports local businesses. I was able to secure funding not only from my bank but also through my local chamber of commerce and Main Street organizations, all with zero down payments. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had these resources available at the start of my business ownership journey. Without that support, purchasing my salon wouldn’t have been possible.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned over the past year and a half is that not all employees are the right fit for my business. I’ve had to learn this the hard way—seeing service providers generate great profit for the business doesn’t always mean they align with the team’s morale or values. I quickly realized that as a business owner, I’m not for everyone; as a boss, I’m not for everyone; and as a person, I’m not for everyone. I’ve always been outgoing and, some say, “loud,” unafraid to pursue what I want. Unfortunately, I learned that not every employee is meant to work in my space, and understanding that has been a crucial part of my growth as a leader.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://integritysalonandspa.com
- Instagram: @integritysalonandspa
- Facebook: Integrity Salon and Spa
