We were lucky to catch up with Corrine Salmon recently and have shared our conversation below.

Corrine, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

To be successful one has to use their talents, skills, and strengths in addition to having the belief that you can do anything you put your mind to. Obstacles will come, but focus on your strengths and the will to adapt with changes. Also, keep a positive mindset. Have fun with the process and take notes on the setbacks so you can improve. Be intentional with your purpose and consistent. Being willing to go against the grain and try new things. Make sure you take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Pour into yourself as you would pour into other people. Most importantly trust God.

Corrine, 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?

My name is Corrine Salmon, and I am of Jamaican decent. I got my undergraduate degree in Fine Arts at Howard University and have my MBA. I was always creative as a child and loner for the early part of my childhood. I was always reading, drawing, and learning about new things. I was always curious about how things work or could be improved. In the Caribbean household Art is usually seen as a hobby so really never gave it much thought. My high school teacher pushed me to apply to several art schools as the original plan was to go become a lawyer. I got into several art schools, but a lot of them did not have athletic programs and I was really good in soccer, volleyball and track and field. I got accepted to Howard University on an Academic scholarship and joined the track team. I excelled in the Fine Arts and leaned more towards graphic design as I did not think being a painter would support me in the long run. I interned at a government entity doing Graphic Design and realized it was not my passion as it did not really allow for creative freedom. I then end up working in corporate America and becoming a Police Officer. I still would doodle and paint as a place to unwind and fill my home with art works, or gift them as gifts. A few years later- I got back into the arts. I would do festivals and created my paintings into branded clothing, shoes, etc. I would also do private lesson painting classes. I realized art is a talent that would never leave me. I auditioned for a City art show and became one of the featured artist. Many people were impressed by my use of color and patterns.

While working as an art teacher I met Al Huggins and he pushed me to show more people my art work. So I did an exhibit show with City of Dania, City of Pembroke PInes and Sistrunk Library. This let me know I could still compete and that I have to get out of my thoughts and be more expressive with my work. I hope to be able to do my own solo show and be a featured artist at Art Basel.

I think what sets me apart from others I am not scared to take risk and fail. I feel every set back I have had in life I have come back stronger. Do not limit yourself, always be willing to try new experiences.

I am most proud of opening up a barbershop in the City of Miramar, Indigo Cuts 2, on my own and have it successful in less than 90 days. It was not a industry I was profecient in but I researched and learned how I could make my shop different from the rest.I want to build a brand beyond just a typical barbershop. I enjoy teaching people how to be successful and not be trapped by fear. In the near future I want to get back to painting and enter some more exhibit shows.

Can you talk to us about your experience with buying businesses?

Yes I bought a barbershop. I bought this business as people spending a lot of money on looking good. It was a business venture that did not require to much effort as barbers are their own independent contractors. You just have to set the standard and culture. The buying process is time consuming as you have to do research on location. You want to be in an area that has a lot of foot traffic on its own, off a main road way, has ample parking, the property is kept up and well maintained. Also you want to be in a community that has a need for the service you provide.

Also you do not see many female owned barbershops.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Be an example to your staff. Be willing to help when you see something that needs to be done. When you see bad habits coach and create a action plan. If they do not adhere be willing to cut ties. Bad habits can cause bad moral and create a bad image for the business. Be able to make business decisions not based on personal feelings but what will work for the long run. Educate your staff so they can grow and create their own. Know that things do not happen overnight and you have to be successful.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @celoisart @indigocuts2_miramar
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corrine-salmon-543798190?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B%2F3d%2FnmlAT0OMYS7N%2BiCKVg%3D%3D