We recently connected with Chonita Madison and have shared our conversation below.

Chonita, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Too often the media represents innovation as something magical that only high-flying tech billionaires and upstarts engage in – but the truth is almost every business owner has to regularly innovate in small and big ways in order for their businesses to survive and thrive. Can you share a story that highlights something innovative you’ve done over the course of your career?

Being able to offer discounted services for those in need and also providing rides to the salon and back.

Chonita, 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?

Chonita Madison, one of the best hairstylists in Kansas City, has been a licensed-professional stylist for over 36 years and continues to leave a mark on everyone whose life she has touched. She founded Unique Inc. in 1994 and wanted to be back in the community she grew up in where she has volunteered and assisted at the election offices, food kitchens, etc. Because of her love for her community, she served on the Open Up America Again COVID response committee, which focused on keeping KCK residents safe during the pandemic. Tyrone Garner, the Mayor/CEO of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas, proclaimed August 14th as Unique, Salon & Boutique Day. Chonita attributes much of her success to God who gifted her, to her grandmother who encouraged her by allowing her to do hair in her house initially, to her parents, twin sons and clients who always supported her.

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

The most effective strategy for the growth of my clientele over the illustrious span of 38 years entails my humble beginnings at the JC Penney styling salon in the Indian Springs Mall. Commencing my journey by dedicating my hours to styling clients at JC Penny, I seized every opportunity to distribute my business cards throughout the bustling corridors of the mall. This modest yet strategic approach served as the cornerstone for the establishment of my thriving enterprise in the vibrant locale of Kansas City, Kansas. Today, I stand as a testament to the enduring power of determination and resourcefulness, having forged a path to success through unwavering dedication and entrepreneurial acumen.

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

My journey into entrepreneurship began with a rather unconventional source of money– shoeboxes filled with my hard-earned savings. Instead of seeking traditional financing, I relied on my own resourcefulness and determination to fund my business venture. Every dollar meticulously saved and stashed away in those shoeboxes symbolized my commitment and belief in my vision.

By avoiding loans, I maintained full control over my business’s destiny from the very beginning. It wasn’t an easy path, but the challenges only fueled my passion and drive to succeed. Those humble beginnings taught me invaluable lessons about fiscal responsibility, creativity, and the true meaning of perseverance. Ultimately, starting with my own savings instilled a sense of pride and ownership in every aspect of my business. It was a testament to my belief in the venture and a reminder that with determination, careful planning, anything is possible!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://uniquesb.com
• Instagram: chonitamadison
• Facebook: chonitamadison
• Linkedin: chonitamadison
• Twitter: chonitamadison