We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Meghan Henson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Meghan below.

Meghan, appreciate you joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

I won’t lie, I never thought I would be a salon owner. The idea intimidated me because I didn’t think I had what it took to grow a business from the ground up. Luckily, I have some really incredible family and friends that believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Their encouragement pushed me to make the leap and take Ivory Rose from a dream to a reality.

So, we found a space to lease and thus began the journey. When I first saw the space we were leasing, I’ll admit I was terrified. The location was great, but the interior needed some help. The walls were black and white stripped, covered in neon pink lettering. The floors were a mix of black tile and worn laminate flooring. A look suited for its time, but far off from the relaxed and comfortable salon I had pictured.

The next few months were spent cleaning, tearing up floors, painting, and putting in new lighting. Most nights were spent working on the salon, eating fast food, and laughing through the exhaustion. My family gave up their social life and weekends to help me bring it to life. I owe so much of this dream to them.

After the renovations were complete and it was time to open, I felt completely unprepared. While I knew how to do hair, the business side was a whole new world. As time went on and I kept actively trying to learn, things got easier. Now, as I approach my one-year anniversary, I look back and am amazed by how much I’ve grown since then. If I had let myself stay in the same place because of fear, I wouldn’t have this amazing salon and met so many kind and welcoming members in my community.

Meghan, 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?

I’m Meghan Henson, owner of Ivory Rose Salon in Jasper, GA and a stylist who has been in the industry for over six years. My specialty is creating blended, seamless color and natural looking hair extensions that give my clients the confidence that they deserve.

Hair has always been my creative outlet. I love that I can help brighten someones day and make them feel seen and heard. After working in other salons and building my skills, I decided to open Ivory Rose Salon. I wanted to create my own warm and inviting space where people feel like family when they walk in the door. Family is a huge part of my life, the salon itself is named after family. Rose was my grandmothers middle name, and “Ivory” is for my nephew, Iver.

At my salon, I offer everything from custom blonding and dimensional color, to luxury hand tied extensions. I focus on creating result that are tailored to each client. Whether I am adding depth or brightness, or adding length and volume, the goal is always the same: for them to leave feeling beautiful, confident, and seen.

What sets me apart is the experience. When you walk into Ivory Rose Salon, you’re met with warmth, snacks, and open ears. I make it a point to take the time to really listen. I want to understand your wants, and guide you towards the best choices for your hair type, lifestyle, and health. My clients know they aren’t just getting a service, they’re getting a stylist who cares about them, their hair, and their overall experience in my chair.

I’m most proud of building a salon from the ground up with the help of my loved ones and pouring love into a space that needed it. A space that I now get to share with my community. I want people to know when they walk in my salon they aren’t just another appointment, they are a part of the Ivory Rose family.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for me and the girls in the salon is word of mouth. When someone walks out with beautiful hair they go tell their family, friends, and coworkers where they went to get it done.
Another great way to grow clientele is getting reviews on google. The more reviews you have the more google pushes your business to the top. We’ve had deals in the past offering a discounted service in return for a review and it worked great!

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

I keep in touch with my clients after their appointments. I make sure they are loving their hair and I’m always available to answer questions they may have. On social media I like to share helpful tips or behind the scenes stuff. I also keep my clients in the loop with any salon updates or special events that may be going on in the salon.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ivoryrosesalon.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: ivoryrosesalon
• Facebook: Ivory Rose