We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jas Y. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jas below.
Alright, Jas thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
For The Barbher Lounge:
I used to be a shampoo tech under a very skilled hair stylist. I watched how organized she was as well as how great she was with time management. At the same time, I decided to cut all of my hair off. My barber had a great clientele; however he was the complete opposite of my boss. His business had so much potential, but he needed some structure. So then I started thinking, what if I cut men’s hair but incorporated the systems that I had learned from working in hair salons. Thus The Barbher Lounge, was born. My system is by appointment only, making sure that each client is serviced at the time that they requested. I aim to provide a luxury grooming experience for men and women too. I wanted men to get the pampered treatment that women receive when they go to the salon. I learned quickly that a lot of men have never experienced some of the forms of self care that we as women are accustomed to. So, I wanted to change that. We are full service, offering haircuts, beard trims, hot lather shaves, brow waxing, beard treatments, facials, and more. There is a full bar, snacks, and refreshments that are always available. I wanted to create a space that was a one stop shop where everyone felt comfortable and could receive the same luxury experience. So that’s exactly what I did
For The Travel Chanel:
I was a flight attendant for 3 years. It taught me ins and outs of travel that I never knew. I started to travel even more after I resigned. Where I come from, most of my peers only dream about some of the destinations I’ve been to. They think they’re unobtainable. I would always get so many questions about my trips. So, then it became my mission to show people that they were able to do everything I was doing and go everywhere I was going. They just needed to know how to plan, and that’s where I come in. Whether you just don’t know how to find deals or what to look for or you just don’t like to deal with the hassle of planning travel, I created a service for you. I will plan everything from your flights and accommodations to transportation and activities and customize it to your desired budget. I am based in Houston and would always have visitors come into town. So, I also started doing Airbnb and Turo here to allow them to book everything through one person making their travels more convenient. I plan to continue to expand those services to other destinations as well, because travel is so much more enjoyable when its stress free.
Jas, 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?
Honestly, I kind of got into barbering by accident. It was not like I aspired to be a barber as a kid. However, I saw how much the art of the craft was missing and knew I could make a difference. I have been licensed for 5 years and don’t regret a single moment of it. I absolutely love what I do and the clientele I do it for. A woman’s touch makes a world of a difference in this industry. I’ve been able to create an environment that a lot of men were not accustomed to with their prior barbers. I also have created a space where women feel comfortable coming in for a haircut and/or bringing their children to get haircuts. I provide everything from haircuts, color, and beard maintenance to waxing and facials. I specialize in all hair types, therefore creating a space where all are welcome and be confident in the services that they receive. It’s not just a cut; it’s an experience.
As far as my travel concierge service goes, I have been traveling since I was a baby. It’s just something that’s a necessity for me. However, it means so much more to me for others to see just how much world there is out here to explore and just how obtainable it is. I love putting together itineraries for people giving them lifetime experiences. Nothing makes me happier than putting someone’s trip together, and they’re contacting me while on their trip to say how much they’re enjoying it. I’ve been studying travel for a long time and usually able to find great deals for my clients. I also know that there are budget travelers and luxury travelers, and I am here to assist both with all of their travel desires from my own experiences.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Consistency is key. Post even when you don’t feel like it. Post even when you think people aren’t interested. I put together videos for my target audiences that are both entertaining and informing. I make it my mission to explain what I’m doing and why I’m doing it. People love learning new things. I also make sure to show my personality through my work. People want to be able to connect and bond with you. I’ve had people who I’ve never met push my businesses simply from listening to my story and being inspired by it. Interact with your audience. It’s so important to show people that you’re a real person and that you’re relatable.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Everything in business won’t always be practical. Sometimes, it won’t make sense and you can’t play it safe. Successful business owners take risks. I know we are taught to be responsible and plan out everything. But sometimes that just doesn’t work in the business realm. You have to take chances even when everything doesn’t line up. When other people are doubting your decision making, you’re more than likely making the right decision. And you can’t allow other people’s fear to affect your vision and dreams. Do it scared. Do it unprepared. Do it last minute. Sometimes you just have to do it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/jchanelenterprises
- Instagram: @jasthebarberdoll/ @thetrvlchanel
- Twitter: @thebarbherlounge
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JastheBarberdoll
Image Credits
Kenneth Jones Jr.