We recently connected with Mikki Priddy-Maki and have shared our conversation below.
Mikki, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Alright – so having the idea is one thing, but going from idea to execution is where countless people drop the ball. Can you talk to us about your journey from idea to execution?
I had been at my old company for about 5 years. For a lot of us our work changed after COVID. I lost my spark, the business was different, and there was a lot of change within my shop that I wasn’t happy with anymore. One day I came home from work and asked my now husband “what if I just opened my own place?” I told everyone for years I would NEVER open a spot. Too much hassle, too much overhead, too much stress. I told him well the worst that could happen is I hate it and I start over again. (Which would not be easy) but that really was the worst thing that could happen. Even though some people around me thought it was a bad idea I found a room for rent with a co worker within that week. It was the only double room left in our vicinity so we had to leave our jobs as quickly as possible. Something that was going to be a 6 month plan turned into a 30 day goal. In 30 days I opened my business. I worked everyday at my shop, filled out paperwork, and learned the logistics of running a business as quickly as possible. Our room opened and the only thing in there was a mini fridge and one picture on the wall of a chicken we thought was hilarious. I bought the basic/bare minimum necessities to operate and sold one product at a time so I could buy one more. When I finished my first month and realized I had doubled my income I got to sit back and realize I actually did it!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Mikki and I love doing all forms of hair. I specialize in lived in messy cuts and blended color, but I love to dabble in vivids when I get the chance. I joined the industry in 2011 when I was just 18 years old. I had zero direction and honestly it was something I just fell into. I was lucky enough to fall in love with the craft and I continued to try all sorts of things within the industry, weddings, makeup, and educating. I mostly carry non toxic products and try to be aware of the things I’m putting on people. I feel like one of the things that makes me successful is the way I can connect with my guests. I do my best to remember what people tell me and all that I want is to make them feel seen and heard. Most of the people I have I’ve had for years. I’ve gotten to see people get married, kids grow up, and sadly seen a lot of loss but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Sometimes I can’t believe the amount of trust people have in me, but sometimes not having to make a decision for yourself is the best gift you can give someone. I love that I get to create an environment people feel comfortable in and I get to be myself. Plus let’s be honest, I’m hilarious.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
The hair world has changed a lot in the last 14 years. Apprenticing wasn’t huge when I was getting started but I think if I could have found the right mentor I would have gotten to where I am a lot faster, but who knows?
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
It’s old school but word of mouth. I like to talk to my clients, get their spouses, and their kids in. A lot of my college students refer me to their friends. I don’t need to build a clientele anymore but even passing my cards out in public worked really well for me. I think when you’re not afraid to put good energy out into the world it comes back a little.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Mikkimaki.com
- Instagram: Mikkimaki_
