We recently connected with Vernetta Gregg and have shared our conversation below.

Vernetta, appreciate you joining us today. Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?

“I knew from a young age that hair was more than just strands; it was a form of expression, a confidence booster. But it wasn’t until 9th grade that I truly understood the power I held as a stylist. My journey with hair started long before I officially launched my business. Long before high school. I remember being in 9th grade, surrounded by the usual teenage chaos of algebra homework and after-school hangouts. But for me, there was something else: a deep fascination with hair. I’d always styled friends and family, but one afternoon, something shifted. A classmate, someone outside my usual circle, asked if I could do her hair. It wasn’t a casual favor; it was a request, an appointment. Suddenly, my bedroom transformed into a makeshift salon, sat in my chair —a towel draped over the bathroom counter, my mother’s hair products carefully arranged. As I shampooed her hair, the warm water running through my fingers, it felt different. This wasn’t just a hobby anymore; it was a transaction, a responsibility, and a thrilling glimpse into my future. The focus I felt while styling her hair was intense, a desire to create something she’d love. When she looked in the mirror and beamed, a wave of pure excitement washed over me. It wasn’t just the dollar I earned—though that was definitely a significant moment—it was the realization that my passion had the power to impact others. That first dollar she paid me wasn’t just currency; it was a tangible symbol of that purpose. It was a confirmation that this passion of mine wasn’t just a fleeting interest; it was a calling. That was validation that I was on the right path. It’s a moment I still cherish—the day I transitioned from a kid who loved doing hair to a professional in the making.”

Vernetta, 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?

My journey with hair started very young, inspired by my grandmother who was a licensed cosmetologist. At nine, assisting her with a hair coloring session sparked a passion that I never would have known defined my life. From braiding friends’ hair during lunch to taking paying clients in Heidelberg Germany during high school, I was always enjoyed learning and growing. I completed and received my cosmetology license during while completing my bachelors degree at Prairie View A&M University. I later studied with and honed my skills alongside top industry professionals . Driven by a desire for deeper knowledge, I became a certified Trichologist, specializing in the study and treatment of hair and scalp conditions and disorders. Today, I’m passionate about educating others on holistic hair and scalp health and its connection to overall well-being. Hair At Nine is a vital part of this mission, but my vision is broader. I a working to create spaces where beauty, health, and healing intertwine to empower individuals and communities.

Can you talk to us about manufacturing? How’d you figure it all out? We’d love to hear the story.

The journey to creating my own product line wasn’t a sudden decision; it was a deeply personal evolution, rooted in my love for my late mother. She struggled with alopecia, and from a young age, I was her dedicated helper, applying various oils and greases to her scalp, both of us hoping for regrowth. Those moments, filled with hope and a touch of desperation, became the foundation of my ‘why.’ I witnessed firsthand the emotional impact of hair loss and the frustration of searching for solutions that truly worked. Over the years, I experienced that frustration myself, both personally and professionally. I tried countless products that promised miraculous results, only to be met with disappointment. Some would work initially, only to have their formulas inexplicably change, rendering them ineffective. This inconsistency became the driving force behind my desire to create something different—products that delivered on their promises, consistently. Though my mother sadly passed before I could share my first creation with her, her struggle became my mission. I channeled my grief and determination into developing formulas that truly work, first for my clients, then for friends and family, and now, for everyone seeking real, lasting results.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

“Building genuine connections with my clients is the cornerstone of my business. I firmly believe that loyalty is a two-way street; it’s about giving as much as you receive. If I don’t personally embody the values of open communication and deep understanding, I can’t expect that energy to translate to my client relationships.

My business has primarily grown through word-of-mouth referrals, a testament to the strong connections I’ve cultivated over the years. However, I’ve also seen a significant increase in new clients discovering me through social media in the past year. This blend of traditional and digital outreach allows me to connect with a diverse clientele.

The key to fostering loyalty, whether with long-term clients or those who found me online, is making them feel seen and heard. It’s about recognizing that they are not just another appointment or another number; they are individuals with unique hair needs, concerns, and stories. I prioritize creating a welcoming and comfortable environment where they feel safe to express themselves.

I stay connected and cultivate lasting client relationships:
Open Communication Channels: I make myself readily available through multiple platforms—phone, text, email, and social media direct messages. I don’t believe in making clients wait until their next salon visit to address a question or concern. Whether it’s a quick styling tip, product recommendation, or a follow-up after a treatment, I strive to respond promptly and thoughtfully.

I actively listen to their needs and concerns, asking clarifying questions to ensure I fully understand their hair goals. This isn’t just about what they want their hair to look like; it’s also about how they want it to feel and how it fits into their lifestyle.

I occasionally offer exclusive discounts or early access to new products or services to my loyal clients as a way of showing my appreciation.

I use social media not just to showcase my work but also to connect with my clients on a personal level. I respond to comments and messages, share behind-the-scenes glimpses of salon life, and post educational content about hair care.

By prioritizing open communication, personalized service, and genuine care, I strive to create a strong sense of community around my brand. I believe that when clients feel valued and understood, they are more likely to become loyal, long-term supporters.”

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.hairatnine.com
• Instagram: @hairatnine
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HairAtNine/
• Other: Google: Hair At Nine LLC
  Tik Tok: Hair At Nine