Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Constance Nevels. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Constance, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

Taking the Leap: The Birth of TheHairXP

For ten years, I had honed my craft as a stylist. The dream of owning my own salon, however, remained just that – a dream. I’d dabbled in salon suites and rentals, but true independence beckoned. By the fall of 2018, I knew it was time to make a move.

Days were spent strategizing, nights filled with hopeful visualization. It wasn’t until late 2019 that I truly started putting my plan into action. I juggled another job while brainstorming creative marketing tactics to build a loyal clientele. 2020 loomed as the year I’d finally open my doors, with space for an additional stylist (or maybe two!) and an assistant who would eventually become part of the team.

Then came the plot twist – the global pandemic. St. Louis went into lockdown, forcing stylists like myself out of work for five long months. The threat of fines for anyone caught working was a huge risk . With a child at home and no daycare options, despair seemed inevitable.

But amidst the chaos, a different kind of stillness emerged. It allowed me to hear the voice within, the one whispering, “This is your chance.” Here, with the world on pause, was the perfect opportunity to take the biggest risk of my career.

While most stylists filed for unemployment and saw it as a lifeline, I saw an opportunity. Every penny! As the weeks passed, I continued scouring for the ideal location, spreading the word to family, friends, and existing clients about the “coming soon” salon. Some people had moved away, others were hesitant due to COVID fears, but my conviction remained unshaken.

The search, however, wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It took weeks of chasing dead ends before I stumbled upon the perfect spot. The initial budget might have been tight, the client base still under construction, and my lease-signing experience limited, but none of it deterred me. On July 17th, 2020, TheHairXP opened its doors, and my dream became reality.

This is my story of a leap of faith, a testament to the power of perseverance, and the beginning of TheHairXP!

Constance, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

TheHairXP: Where Hair Meets Hustle – My Story
From Inspiration to Innovation: A Natural Hair Journey

My love affair with hair began in the most unexpected place – sixth grade. Witnessing my grandmother’s pride in her natural hair sparked a desire within me. I knew i wanted healthier hair and at the time becoming fully natural was the only option.
A Defining Moment: Halo Salon

My dad introduced me to a stylist, a former student of his. Stepping into her high-end salon, “Halo,” was a revelation. The luxurious atmosphere and the way she transformed my natural hair into a sleek, pressed style (without relaxers!) ignited a passion within me. This was on of the moments I knew I wanted to be a hairstylist.

From Inspiration to Action: Embracing My Natural Calling

Eighth grade brought a turning point. While my peers explored college options, I felt unsure of my path. My decision to go natural, a bold move in 2004-2005, fueled my passion further. Inspired by my grandmother’s embrace of natural hair and the hope it instilled in me, I started doing friends’ hair.

A Stepping Stone: South County Tech

With my dad’s support, I discovered a cosmetology program at South County Tech. It was a competitive program, but thanks to my guidance counselor and a substitute teacher who saw my potential, I secured a spot. While cosmetology school provided a foundation, I quickly realized that true talent comes from within and continuous learning.

Building TheHairXP: A Journey of Experience

After graduation, I embarked on a journey through salons, barber shops, and even rental suites. Each experience shaped me, teaching me valuable lessons. However, I discovered that beauty schools often focused on outdated styles. To stay relevant, I sought additional education through internships and a constant pursuit of knowledge within the ever-evolving beauty community.

Discipline, Awareness, and Intentionality: The Keys to Success

While I didn’t have strict discipline starting out, I knew I needed guidance. By observing successful stylists, I learned the importance of consistency and awareness. Utilizing social media, organic marketing, and even cold calling, I built awareness for my brand.

TheHairXP: More Than Just Hair

What sets TheHairXP apart? Everything I do is rooted in intuition and intentionality. From the moment you discover my salon, there’s a sense of purpose. I believe in creating a space that transcends vanity, fostering self-love and ultimately, love for others.

TheHairXP: Embracing Your Human Experience

My salon empowers women to embrace their unique journeys through hair. That’s why I’m also inspired to start my own hair extensions line, “Marie,” launching July 17th, 2024 online at www.thehairxp.com. There are a lot of taboos about using hair extensions, and I want to help people understand how to use them effectively without feeling vain or materialistic. When you have a strong understanding of why you’re doing something, it empowers you, and no one can take that away.

Healthy Hair Starts with Healthy Products

I’m also in the middle of reformulating my hair products, which are still available for sale online(www.thehairxp.com). These products have always been intended to promote healthy hair by focusing on cleaning, growth, hydration, and rebuilding(bonds in the hair/protein).

Join the Journey!

TheHairXP is more than just healthy hair care and styling. It’s about self-discovery and empowerment. To learn more log onto my youtube page https://www.youtube.com/@thehairexperience5301

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

1. Client Retention is Key:

Deliver exceptional service: This is the foundation of everything. Your clients should have a positive and memorable experience! Every time they visit TheHairXP it’ss all about them.
Focus on results: Showcase your expertise through high-quality photos and videos of your work. This content not only educates potential clients but also reminds existing ones of your skills.
Maintain consistent communication: Regularly connect with your clients through blog posts, social media updates, or even email newsletters. Share valuable tips and hair care advice to solidify yourself as a trusted resource.

2. Building Your Brand Through Visibility:
Show Up: Brand awareness is crucial. Be active online and offline.
Targeted Social Media Marketing: Don’t just post aimlessly. Tailor your content to your ideal client. Understand who you want to attract and cater your message to their specific needs and desires.
Network strategically: Attend industry events, collaborate with other businesses, or even consider offering workshops or classes to establish yourself as an expert.

3. The Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing:
Focus on exceptional client experiences: When clients are happy and have a positive experience they’re more likely to recommend you to their friends and family.
So this is where the online presences is needed. People will take a trusted friends word but seeing your work and salon and every amazing thing you have to offer will bring it right home!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Absolutely! My biggest pivot came after I became a mother. Before that, my hairstyling career revolved around flexibility. Open to whenever? You bet! I thrived on that schedule, catering to busy clients like kids after school, college students, and nine-to-five workers who needed evening appointments.

Then, my son arrived, and everything shifted. That open schedule suddenly felt impossible. I needed more structured hours to be present for my child. But here’s the challenge: my clientele thrived on that flexibility!

So, I knew I had to pivot, but it wasn’t a simple change. My initial strategy, with the best intentions, meant saying goodbye to the very clients who fueled my business – those with busy, unpredictable schedules. It was a tough realization. Less money, less flexibility – but this time, it wasn’t just a personal sacrifice. It impacted my entire business model.

But challenges breed creativity! This second pivot forced me to re-evaluate everything. It’s been a journey of learning to be kinder to myself, both physically and in terms of balancing family and work. Salon time is salon time, and home time is home time.

These pivots also made me a master of detachment. People come to me for that reason – understanding that it’s okay to say no and adjust your approach. I still cherish those clients with demanding schedules, but I can’t cater to them exclusively anymore.

Saying no is part of unconditional love, but it’s also about knowing your limits. You don’t want to burn out! People love consistency, but sometimes that can come at a cost. In the end, I chose me, my son, and my well-being. And that’s a pivot I’m proud of!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thehairxp.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.hairxp/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559872861882
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehairexperience5301

Image Credits

all images shoot and taken with iphone by constance on clients in salon