We recently connected with Dionne James and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Dionne thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Along with taking care of clients, taking care of our team is one of the most important things we can do as leaders. Looking back on your journey, did you have a boss that was really great? Maybe you can tell us about that boss and what made them a wonderful person to work for?
The best boss I e er had was Tulani kiinnard. It was first salon I worked in at the tender age of 18 years old. She was very strict and no nonsense type of boss. We had to be trained every Sunday on the braiding skills we were no proficient in yet.
You were first a shampoo girl and once you mastered that you could braid down only. A braid assistant. She made sure you mastered one area before you were allowed to go to the more advanced styles.
She was professional and taught me discipline, and showed me how to create a calm atmosphere in my salon. Is he showed me how to attract high end clients.
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
Dionne James is a renowned cosmetologist, hairstylist, entrepreneur, author, and real estate investor who strives to create solutions by providing stylish and personalized services to transform the looks of her clients while helping them in achieving their beauty goals. With 20 years of experience serving New York, Virginia and Atlanta she has gained vast knowledge of the industry that she uses to help others maximize profitability in their business. In recognition of her work, she has tutored thousands of students across the globe including China, Mexico, Canada, California, Jamaica, and America. In her book The Hustle is Real! Millionaire Stylist, Dionne explains her journey of trials and tribulations and tips on how to thrive in the hair and beauty industry. The book is a perfect guide for salon owners, industry mogul and all entrepreneurs who are thriving to reach millionaire status. It contain tips on how to save 1 million dollars, diversify your income, build your clientele and legacy. She explains how to make money while sleeping and being ahead in the game. Dionne has created sophisticated hair products that have completely transformed the industry. Her exemplary work has seen her owning various businesses in different industries of beauty and real estate. She is the owner of Essence of Braiding & Weaving Studio- a company that manufactures hair and the founder of Eusoyah Properties LLC- a real estate investment company serving Atlanta and Richmond VA. With a passion for teaching, Dionne formerly owned Essence Cosmetology & Barbering Academy.
With a master in cosmetology and an educator in the art of braiding, Dionne has dedicated her career path to natural hair care. As a successful hairstylist, she has been featured in prestigious magazines such as Essence, Sophisticated hair, Hype hair ,Braids & Beauty, Black Beauty, and many more. Her creativity and versatility in the beauty industry make her the most sought-after by women who want to grow their career. Dionne’s goal is to uplift women by providing them with tools, various beauty resources, and keeping them informed on the latest trends. She cares about inspiring others to live their best lives while chasing their dreams relentlessly. It’s not all about business, Dionne aims to make an impact by providing motivated individuals with relevant insight that can propel them towards a brighter future.
During her free time, you will find her dancing, traveling, and spending time with her three amazing daughters. She is an active member of the community who chartered the first Chapter of Tau Gamma Delta Sorority Inc. in the state of Virginia. She volunteers in different projects, provides scholarships, and empowers both women and children within her capacity.
The Hustle is Real! Nothing beats a failure but a try…..
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
What help me build my reputation and business is having integrity. I value all of my clients and I take there time and support very serious. I care about being on time for work or using the best quality plant base hair products that are not harsh to the scalp. All of my stylists are well trained and professional to assure a great experience for all clients.
Coming to essence is an experience so that’s what keep the clients coming back and sharing the experience with there friends and family.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele is being kind, professional, knowledgeable about hair, reliable and follow up with the client to Alf about there experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Essenceofbraiding.com, www.Dionnejamessoulutions.com, www.Dionnejames.com
- Instagram: Essenceofbraids
- Facebook: Essence of braiding
- Yelp: Essence of braiding & Weaving Llc
Image Credits
Sojourner eggleston