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

LaShawn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

I feel it is so important for women to pour into themselves. Have a safe space to talk about their passions, and their fears. Most of my guests are 30+ and I find that we tend to lose ourselves, in our children, relationships….careers. The women that come to me, I believe are ready for a change, not only outward but they are doing overall self work. I love that for them….it’s nothing like a women who is confident, and becoming HER! Manifesting the person she wants to be and doing the work!!!

LaShawn, 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?

I never thought I would become a hairstylist. I grew up braiding family and friends’ hair but didn’t see a career in it. I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur, and after many failed attempts at other careers, I finally decided to go to cosmetology school and turn my passion into a business. My goal was to bring back hair care and not just style hair. Give my clients a space they could feel comfortable and confident that they were in good hands. Most of the women I see have a hard time finding stylists that cater to the health of their hair, and they come in to begin the journey with me. Some are relaxed, some natural. And both are okay! We focus on what’s best for their specific needs and lifestyle. Hair is an extension of you…not a definition of who are….sometimes a little change can make all the difference!

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

Moving to North Carolina from New York with two young kids, my husband and I were having a rough time. We have never been the type to ask for help, we just put in the work and God handles the rest. He always made a way! I was a stay a home mom at the time and to bring in a little extra income I would take a few clients in our tiny apartment . At the time I would promote on local mom Facebook groups and actually built a little clientele. Enough so that we were able to get a larger place and my clientele continued to grow. After delivering my son in 2017, I decided I was ready to make the leap and rent my first suite. The rest is history!

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

What I hear really sets me apart is my professionalism. I am reliable, and I respect my clients time. New client or old, you will always be greeted with a smile!

Contact Info:

• Website: Hblsalonstudio.com
• Instagram: Hair_by_Lashawn
• Facebook: Hair_by_Lashawn
• Yelp: HBL salon studio

Image Credits
@vonteshotit