We were lucky to catch up with Samiayyah Ellis recently and have shared our conversation below.

Samiayyah, appreciate you joining us today. One of the most important things we can do as business owners is ensure that our customers feel appreciated. What’s something you’ve done or seen a business owner do to help a customer feel valued?

A few times of the year, I offer my waxing services at a discounted rate. For instance, during the holidays black Friday, I sometimes offer buy three get one free. I appreciate them, trusting me with their waxing needs, so I’m always willing to show my appreciation!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have always loved the art of cosmetology, everything about hair, skin, and nails, since I was a very young girl. It was always a dream of mine to become a cosmetologist and work with all hair types and textures. It hasn’t always been easy in this industry, but always very rewarding! I actually took cosmetology as my trade in high school, I felt like I wasn’t getting anything out of the course so I stepped away from it for 10 years post high school. I always still carry my love for the industry, and when I had the opportunity, I went back to school full-time obtain both my cosmetology and my instructors license! And it’s been uphill since!!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Of course! During the pandemic, the word freedom kept coming to mine, and I knew I needed to make a change when we were back into the salons, but I just didn’t know what the change was. A friend of mine was transitioning into a suite owner and of course, I let fear grip me the minute we started talking about it, but then the more I thought about it I went for it! I did inquire about Sola salon suites in my area, and the rest is history! The reason I needed to really pivot was because I wanted to be able to be there for my son as much as possible and running my own Suite has allowed me to do that for the last almost 2 1/2 years

How did you build your audience on social media?

I’m actually what you consider an old school hairstylist lol! I do have a social media presence and I do have a following however, I still rely heavily on word-of-mouth. So with that being said a lot of my clients will direct people to my Instagram account in order to see my work, and be able to access the link to book my services!!

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.mainebeautyroom.com
• Instagram: Mainebeautyroom

Image Credits
All photos taken by me!