Today we’d like to introduce you to Sherly Gonzalez.
Hi Sherly, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My desire to enter the cosmetology industry began with a fascination in special effects makeup. As a junior, I was given the opportunity to enter my high school’s cosmetology program, which would jumpstart my career. Normally a program designed to span the last 3 years of high school, I faced the unprecedented challenge of completing my program in half that time. Running on pure ambition (and about four hours of sleep), I completed my written and practical examinations three months prior to graduating high school all while working as a receptionist in a chain salon. The efforts of both my cosmetology teacher and I were recognized by the former Texas House of Representatives member, Jonathan Stickland. Nine months after graduation, I began managing a well-known upscale men’s salon at age 19.
In the early days of my career, I had the opportunity in both my role as receptionist and then later as a manager to analyze the infrastructure of the salon industry. Some aspects I observed to be efficacious whilst others were severely lacking. The biggest hurdle in my four years of management came in March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began. Seeking a change of pace, I started The Den Styles for Men, where I had total freedom to construct my vision from the ground up without limitation.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The pandemic revealed many unforeseen challenges. Lack of PPE, inadequate information, and a surge of uncertainty throughout the general public welcomed us back into the workforce after Texas’ mandated shutdown of salons and barbershops. Sanity, for many, was dangling by a string as those in the workforce had to make the difficult decision of whether to care for their health or afford their necessities if unemployment assistance was not an option. But for those in the salon industry, we faced record lows in profit and guest/employee retention as many were either unable to afford such services or were simply hesitant to leave their homes and face the unknowns brought about by the virus.
Many customers and employees began opening up about their personal struggles, not only in their workplace but within their homes as well. This, to me, revealed a major flaw in our industry and many others. I witnessed many struggling with their mental health. No one felt like they had a true, safe space to let go, relax, and clear their mind. This, above anything else, was where I wanted to make a difference and set the new precedent.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The Den Styles For Men gave us the ability to offer new services and discounts for my customers, to create and offer a competitive pay structure, and schedule flexibility to the women whom I handpicked to employ. I personally curate and am highly selective about the brands and products that we carry. From luxury grooming brands such as John Paul Mitchell Systems and STMNT Grooming Goods to showcasing local Texas distilleries and breweries like Deep Ellum Brewing Co. and TX Whiskey, we offer it all.
As a salon, we pride ourselves on cultivating an environment where anyone can simply walk in, take a seat, sip on a delicious local beverage, and share in a great conversation (full of laughter and good tunes). We’ve created an inviting and inclusive community of people from all walks of life. With this, our team noticed a significant impact not only in our own lives but within the relationships we’ve been able to develop with our customers. Our stylists, all previously involved in salon management, are highly skilled in men’s grooming services and have an eye for detail. Each woman showcases their own talents and vibrant personalities to the table. We offer a lot more than just haircuts, and beard trims with an expansive service menu of shaves, waxing, facials, coloring services, and massages that guests can customize to suit their needs.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
We are a modest team consisting of only 3-4 highly requested and experienced stylists. Our scheduling system is text-based to ensure that we are minimizing interruptions during your visit. We are passionate about giving back to our communities! We offer discounts for first responders, police, firemen, and educators! Unfortunately, we do not offer online booking however booking an appointment is just a message away! Instagram, Facebook, text, and email are all great ways to connect with our team and set up a good date and time that works best for you. We respond to customers at our earliest convenience. In the event that we don’t have your date and/or time available, we’ll offer alternative dates and times similar to your original request. We’re located inside Salon Suites of Euless in Euless, TX. We’re eager to expand and eventually have our own storefront where we can provide our customers with the true vision for what we want The Den Styles for Men to offer for our customers. We have endless plans and ideas for future projects and can’t wait for the moment we’ll be able to make those plans into reality.
We would like to send out a huge shout-out and thanks to all of our customers, friends, and family who have supported us through this grand adventure that has become The Den Styles For Men! None of us would be living our dreams without your encouragement, loyalty, and constant support.
Pricing:
- Basic cut starts at $27
- Bald fades are $32
- Neck/hand/scalp massages $1 per minute (additional $1 to rate for CBD)
- Deluxe packages starting $50+
- Razor shaves starting at $5+
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Thedenstylesformen
- Facebook: The Den Styles for Men
Image Credits
Andres Tagliaferro
