We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mandy Hancock. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mandy below.
Mandy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
In my experience, taking a risk and getting out of your comfort zone is where we really grow as individuals. Not necessarily knowing how things are going to work out but taking that first step anyway can be scary, liberating, terrifying and exciting. But the important thing is that we take that first initiative. I’m a firm believer that the Universe is always working in our favor. Having that trust, a passion for your work and the confidence to take inspired action is the recipe for entrepreneurial success.
The biggest risk I’ve taken most recently was moving my salon 50 miles away from the first location in Fort Worth. At the beginning of the pandemic, during the mandated closure of my salon in 2020, I was pregnant with my fourth child and my family and I were spending more and more time out on our property in Glen Rose, TX, a small town about an hour outside of the city. We bought the property a year prior and had a 5-10 year plan of eventually building a salon and our forever home on it, slowly but surely, while in the meantime we would go there on the weekends and stay in our RV. Just a couple months into the pandemic and we were absolutely loving spending more time in the country and decided to take the huge risk of going ahead and selling our house in the city, building the salon on our property while I was on maternity leave and living in our RV (with four kids) until we could build our home. Did I know if my clients would follow me all the way out there? No. Did I think we could comfortably live in our 40ft RV with four kids? Also no. Haha, but seriously, the Universe was presenting an opportunity and with the combination of that trust, a lot of courage and understanding of all the risk associated with this plan, we jumped. And I can tell you right now we have never looked back!
Not only did about 90% of my DFW clients follow me to the new location, but many have actually said that they ENJOY the drive out here! It’s just far enough to feel like you’re getting away but close enough to be an easy, relaxing trip. I have been so pleasantly surprised and so grateful for the positive response to the new location from my amazing guests. Naturally, without having to advertise, I’ve gained new wonderful, local clients as well.
And living in the camper? I never thought I’d say this, but, we absolutely love it. It’s simple, intimate, easy to clean. I have to say, there really is something to this tiny living movement. It’s liberating. We spend tons of time together and even more time outside. The kids get dirty. They play in the creek, collect rocks, chase frogs, watch birds, help in the garden, go on hikes, they just… PLAY.
Thankful doesn’t seem to suffice when describing my feelings about taking that risk in 2020. We did not know how it was going to work out but we had faith and we took that first step. If you have a dream and it scares you, follow it. Get uncomfortable. Take that first step and see where it takes you. One thing will happen for sure, you will grow.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My first passion and my career for the past twenty years is being a hairstylist. I had my first haircut in a salon when I was 8 years old and that stylist made me feel fabulous, confident, mature and beautiful. I remember she spoke to me like I was an adult and that really made me feel seen and heard. I decided in that moment that I wanted to do that for people too. Give them stunning hair, of course, but also, make them FEEL fabulous, confident, seen and heard. It is rare that we take the time to really spoil ourselves. We are living in such a fast paced world, we only slow down if it’s scheduled. Some of us are better at taking time for ourselves but most of us aren’t. Hair appointments are usually considered more of a necessity than a luxury. But I say why not combine the two? At Prominence Parlor your hair maintenance is a necessary luxury. From the combination of scalp, neck and shoulder massage and spa-like steam towel treatments, the extensive, complimentary beverage and snack bar, the gorgeous, thought out decor, the high quality natural products, the relaxing rocking chairs on the porch where you can bird watch while you process and just listen to the peaceful sounds of nature, the consistent, unparalleled customer service, great music, ambiance, and of course, down to the perfectly customized hair, Prominence Parlor takes your hair appointment to the next level. I’ve often heard my clients describe the salon as a “whole vibe” and I’m here for it. Matter of fact, that’s exactly what I’m going for. We NEED to feel special, beautiful and cared for. It really fills my cup to be able to provide this for my guests.
My second career began almost 9 years ago when I had my first child. After a long labor and natural delivery, I really understood the value of childbirth education and proper support for the birthing person. Having amazing support, and replacing fear and uncertainty with knowledge and confidence was the key to having a positive birth experience and alas, there was my second calling. Blissful Birth Childbirth Education and Doula Services was born, haha. Between the birth of my first child nine years ago and my fourth child just one year ago I have become a certified Childbirth Educator, Birth Doula and I am currently working on getting my Postpartum Doula certification as well. Empowering and encouraging families through education and support has been such a gift for me. Being a part of a mama’s sacred journey into motherhood and beyond is something that I am absolutely honored and so grateful to get to do. I’m a little obsessed with everything pregnancy, baby and birth. To watch a powerful mom achieve the birth she desires, to cross that threshold of bringing her baby earthside… there really are no words to describe it.
Birthing moms need evidence based information, support and advocacy. The maternal mortality rate in the United States is staggering. The number one complication with pregnancy and postpartum? Depression. Birth matters. Mothers and babies matter. Continued care from pre to postnatal matters. It is such a joy of mine to get to do this incredibly important work!
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
Consistency. I always strive to provide the ultimate experience for every client, every time. My guests know what to expect when they are with me, whether it be for a hair service or a birth plan visit. I am always sure to keep a positive attitude and outlook no matter what may be going on in my personal life. I always give 110%. I almost exclusively rely on word of mouth for referrals to grow my clientele and businesses. I believe that by being consistent in providing excellent care is the most effective strategy to get people talking and sharing about you and your business. Find out what you’re good at and strive to be the best, consistently. That alone sets you apart from others who are doing the same job as you.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
I started my businesses the good old fashioned way. With a small business loan. I put together a business plan and figured out how much capital I would need to get it going. Then I went to the bank to get approved for the loan and only took one for what I needed, even though I was approved for more. When working the budget for my anticipated sales I calculated that if I took just 10% out every week I could have the loan paid off in 6 months, and that’s what I did. Don’t let fear of starting with a little debt keep you from making the jump to business owner. If you have a good business idea, a passion for what you’re doing and you can work the numbers to be profitable, take the leap. Stick with your budget and do everything you can to be the best in your field. Before you know it you’ll be living your dream!
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.prominenceparlor.com www.blissfulbirtheducation.com
- Instagram: @earthtomandy
- Facebook: Prominence Parlor Blissful Birth Childbirth Education and Doula Services
- Twitter: @earthtomandy