We recently connected with Chretien Gerada and have shared our conversation below.

Chretien, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the things we most admire about small businesses is their ability to diverge from the corporate/industry standard. Is there something that you or your brand do that differs from the industry standard? We’d love to hear about it as well as any stories you might have that illustrate how or why this difference matters.

Provide an atmosphere that is welcoming to each and every individual that steps foot inside the space.

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

I started doing hair for fun during high school when my aunt asked me to cut my cousin’s hair. When I started college I used haircutting to make a little extra cash on the side because it was flexible with timing around my school schedule. Not only was I making a little bit of money but i got to hang out with a lot of cool people while cutting their hair. It felt like I was never working, I realized that this path was leading somewhere and when I seen people like @juliuscaesar and @vincethebarber taking the barbering industry I decided that I wanted to do something like that too.

I specialize in mens haircutting. After cutting hair for a long time, I’ve come to a realization that client consultation is one of the most important parts of a haircutting service. A lot of people can give a fresh fade but not everyone needs a fresh fade. Seeing what type of lifestyle a client has, how they’re dressed, what occupation they have, etc. helps me determine what haircut to recommend. Then based of what they want I can try to meet them on middle grounds or give my best advice as to what hairstyle they should get.

I am most proud of making my clients feel like a million dollars when they leave my chair. I always love to see the smiles on their face and the extra pip in their step as they leave the space. Clients are my walking billboards so I got to put my best work out each and every single time.

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

“Word of mouth is the strongest form of advertisement” has always been one the biggest quotes that I follow by. I’ve always found it to be the most effective way to get clients. If someone else refers me then not only is my reputation on the line to perform, but theirs is as well. This has been the best way for me to retain clientele.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Although word of mouth has been the most effective way to obtain retain clients, social media has lent a big hand is getting many new clients as well. Taking a nice picture or video of my clients haircuts and posting them has helped me get clients that want their hair to look similar. Also, the atmosphere and space play a big part too. I cut in a private studio overlooking Downtown Los Angeles so when I post videos of the space I sometimes lock in clients who just want a peaceful place to come to and vibe out.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.create-la.com
• Instagram: @cray.ative
• Facebook: Cray Gerada
• Linkedin: Chretien Gerada
• Youtube: Chretien Gerada