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

Sarah, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you take vacations? How do you keep things going – any advice for entrepreneurs who feel like they can’t step away from their business for a short vacation?

Travel has always been important to me, from as far back as I can remember. Not only is it important to step away from your role as a business owner (as best as you can), it’s important to take these opportunities to soul search and come back with a refreshed perspective. Part of productivity is rest and recovery and it’s my firm belief that travel accomplishes both of those.

Sarah, 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?

After a brief attempt at an advertising degree, I decided to drop out of college and pursue my dream of becoming a cosmetologist and business owner. I come from a family of artists and entrepreneurs who I watched struggle to “fit the mold” and I didn’t want to spend my life trying to stifle that flame inside my soul.

Through the Ontario College of Trades, I completed my apprenticeship at one of Toronto’s top makeup schools and salons, working exclusively under television/film professionals and specialists in their craft. While many took to special effects, I graduated with a specialization in decade and historical hair and makeup. From there, I immediately continued onto celebrity and production work with Google, Netflix, TIFF, Apple, Universal Music, Miss Universe Canada, American Express, GMC, Volvo.

Over the past 6 years, I also have had brand partnerships and trade show opportunities with companies like Ciate London, Bite Beauty, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Dyson and Amika. This background in sales became particularly useful during the pandemic when I launched (and sold) a bespoke marketing and business consulting group. Now as a salon suite owner, I do social media and content creation (both for lifestyle and professional education) with contracted brand partners.

I’ve been able to combine all my experience in the arts to create my business, Crossroads Beauty Studio. We create healthy, timeless and completely customized designs to any age group and hair type – even hair extensions, additions and wig design. I have a deep passion for hair health and growth and am developing a class to educate on hair loss. My makeup is known to be skin focused and comfortable for long-wear.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Having a gracious work ethic. By embracing the saturated market and zeroing down on what I was truly passionate about, I have been able to build a career full of creative and fulfilling milestones. It’s my belief that your passion is palpable to your clients when you’re honoring it.

I would wager 80% of a skill can be perfected through education. That 20% that represents your attitudes and perspectives will take you further in your life and career than you know. Comparisons will kill you if you allow them, so keep your brand story in the forefront of your vision and be true to it.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

I’ve worked many jobs that were less than glamorous in my life. I’ve scooped ice cream, sold outerwear at a sports store, bagged groceries and delivered food. I worked as a bartender and a waitress. When you’re financially independent from a young age, it can seem daunting to accomplish your goals and keep those basic needs met. Patience is key – and a good budget. Discipline can create a huge strain in your emotional hygiene if you lose sight of the end goal. My mindset has always been to invest in yourself, your skills and your tools before you invest in the luxuries.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sarahaverym.com
• Instagram: @sarah.averym
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahaveryhmua/
• Other: https://sarahaverym.square.site/

Image Credits
Photographers: Shayenna Nolan + Jackie Brown