Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Danielle Leigh Dale (Dani Leigh). We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Danielle Leigh Dale , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear how you think where to draw the line in terms of asking friends and family to support your business – what’s okay and what’s over the line?
Although going into any business ultimately our goal is to use our sphere of influence to gain a following sometimes that can come with unforeseen disappointment. From selling real estate, to opening businesses that are customer driven I have received support in places I never expected it, and never received it in places that I did expect it. It can be very disheartening when you are passionate about anything to see that people you are the closest to choose another professional or business over you. My first client as a real estate agent was a childhood friend, who refers me still to this day and I help her entire family. I’ve also had a close relative hire someone within my company to sell their house who is not more qualified than me. I’ve had friends skip my grand openings for my salons, I’ve had a few who have never even stepped foot in my places. I want everyone to understand that this is not a reflection of you, I had a very hard time with it and it is some thing that you are going to experience. It is normal, and unfortunately you have to spend your time investing into those who invest into you. Take notice of who supports you and who just stands on the sidelines watching.
Danielle Leigh Dale , 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?
Starting with real estate first, I have been in the industry for eight years. I have helped hundreds of families purchase homes. One of my strongest attributes is negotiation, and making sure the job gets done. I am well-versed in the laws and contractual side of real estate along with I have a strength in understanding my clients and what their wants and needs are and playing matchmaker. One of my best attributes That is important to having a smooth process is problem-solving, if there is a problem I will find a solution.My referral network is very strong and 50% Of my yearly business is from past clients.
Glossed Up was my first salon, it is all nails with 8 full time techs, One of the main things I am proud of is not only my staff but their Unanimous skill level is unmatched in the area. I truly believe that they are the best. Glossed up also carries my own personal brand of polish.
Dolled Up was my second salon, it is make up and hair. Make up is some thing that I truly love enough that I have my own line. It took me months of hard work and discipline to create beauty by Dani Leigh. There were nights that I stayed up all night, Got a little sleep and went to work the next morning showing houses. All of the packaging, logos, colors are all chosen by me.
One of the main things that I would want a future clients/customers/followers to know is Everything that I have created all started with a vision. Never let anyone stop you from being who you want, or tell you that your dreams are unrealistic.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Having employees from previous places I have learned a lot about how other owners manage. I’ve heard the good and the bad, and I’ve tried to learn from it. The biggest mistake that I have seen is that owners tend to forget they are only as good as their team. People do not leave their jobs they leave their poor management. At both salons I have built 2 separate teams of women who all flow well with one another. No gossip, arguing, talking about one another and I truly believe everyone is on the same page. At all times you need to be appreciative of the people who keep your business running. Without them you would have nothing.
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
Although I didn’t fund my business the typical way by obtaining a business loan, I lived very tight for a year and paid cash for both places. Do I regret it? Absolutely not, was it easy? Absolutely not. You need to be willing to live a year beneath your means to obtain your dream. It is all worth it in the end. And if that is not possible, no problem just make sure you did not take out a loan that is above your level of comfort.
Contact Info:
- Website: Beautybydanileigh.com
- Instagram: Miss_Dani_leigh
- Facebook: Danielle Leigh Dale
- Other: Glossedupnailbar.com Danielledale.Danberry.com
Image Credits
Michael Wood