Today, we’d like to introduce you to Fallon Avery.
Hi Fallon, can you introduce yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Well, where shall I start? I grew up here in the Dallas area, which is actually Mesquite. I attended West Mesquite High School, where I received my cosmetology license.
My first experience in the industry of transforming people was a Glamour Shot doing hair and makeup at Town East Mall. But that would only be the start of my journey, a path filled with countless styles, stories, and transformations. Each day brought new challenges and opportunities to hone my craft and touch lives in unexpected ways.
I can vividly remember the scent of fresh shampoo and the hum of the hair dryers filling the air as I stepped into the salon for my first day as a professional hair stylist. It had been six months since I earned my license and graduated high school, and the reality of my new career was both thrilling and daunting.
For years, I had dreamed of this moment, inspired by the transformation I had witnessed at Glamour Shots, and the joy that a simple haircut or color could bring to someone’s life was my reason for getting into this field. The journey to get here wasn’t easy – countless hours of practice, learning the intricacies of hair texture and color theory, and mastering the perfect cut.
That day, as I stood behind the chair, scissors in hand, I realized this was exactly where I was supposed to be—I WAS HOME! Each client brought a new challenge and an opportunity to make a difference, and I was all in!!! This was my new reality—a world of creativity, connection, and endless possibilities.
From there, I went on to work and be a part of a motley crew of hair salons. There was Regis (Quail Spring Mall, OKC), my first actual Salon experience. Toni&Guy (North Park Mall) is my best salon experience. Super Cuts (North Dallas) was my first management role. Regis again (Galleria) was where I actually learned color theory. Then I went out on my own (FAILED). Great Clips (Rowlett) became an Area Supervisor over nine stores.
Then I met Jennifer Hyde, the owner of Jekyy&Hyde Transformation Salon, in 2011. She was doing LOCS on all types of hair, and I was so burned out with doing “regular” hair that I jumped at the opportunity to do something different. The salon was full service, so he did all the hair, but she was doing about 65% LOCS, and each day brought new faces and unique stories into my chair, turning every LOC service into an amazing experience.
I transformed nervous first-time clients into confident individuals and witnessed the joy on the faces of people who weren’t sure if this was the style for them, if it was cultural appropriation, or if their families would expect their decision. The connections I was making and the creativity I was able to express through my work were beyond anything I had imagined, making every moment in the salon a rewarding adventure. I WAS BACK HOME!
I worked at Jekyll & Hyde for eight years before leaving and opening my own salon in 2019. Essence of Locks was born. MY BABY, after all the hard work and dedication I had given to all the other businesses and people, it was now my turn to have a piece of the pie.
I have a thriving business in Garland, TX. We are a completely full-service salon. Essence of Locks also custom-blends hair products for clients who need them. Thus, Pure Essence was born as well. I had always been a top seller of products in any salon that I worked in, so it only made sense to create my own line. Pure Essence has five products. Our GROW OIL is our top seller, followed by our BUTTA, AND DRY/ITCHY OIL is a close 2nd and 3rd. Then we have a FLAKY AND OILY OIL as well. We will be rolling out a BEARD OIL AND SHAMPOO BAR at the end of the year.
I take pride in knowing that our salon service and products are exceptional. They combine personalized attention, skilled techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere. Clients leave not only with great hair but also with the feeling of being truly cared for. This commitment to excellence and genuine connection make every visit special, ensuring our clients return again and again.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The path hasn’t been easy. Long hours on my feet, the pressure to perfect every cut and style, and the constant need to stay updated with the latest trends have been challenging.
Balancing the demand of the clients with the creative passion I hold for my craft has tested my resilience. And balancing home and work life has also been daunting. Yet, each challenge has strengthened my skills and deepened by dedication to the rewarding profession.
Thanks for sharing that. Maybe you can tell us a bit more about your business next.
Our salon (Essence of Locks), is more than just a place to come get your LOCS done- it’s a hub of creativity, transformation, and community. Specializing in a wide range of services, form classic cuts and color to modern styles and advanced treatments, and LOC services, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized experience tailored to each client’s unique needs.
What sets us apart is our commitment to continuous learning and innovation. Our team regularly attends workshops and training sessions to stay ahead of industry trends, ensuring we offer the latest techniques and products. We are known for our exceptional customer service, where every client is treated like family. The warm, welcoming atmosphere of our salon makes it a haven where clients can relax and rejuvenate.
One of our proudest achievements is our reputation for creating healthy LOCS, stunning styles, and special occasion looks. We love being a part of our clients’ significant life events, and the trust they place in us with their hair is incredibly rewarding.
We want everyone to know that at Essence of Locks, it’s not just about great hair – it’s about the experience. From the moment you walk through the outdoors, you’ll feel the passion and dedication we have for our craft. We believe in the power of beauty to boost confidence and enhance lives, and we strive to make every visit memorable! “Come and find YOUR Essence!”
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck has undeniably played a role in my life and business.
The right opportunities have often presented themselves at the perfect time, whether it is finding a prime location for our salon, meeting a mentor who offered invaluable advice, or receiving an unexpected positive review that brought in a wave of new clients. However, luck alone wouldn’t have been enough without hard work, persistence, and a willingness to seize these opportunities.
I’ve been fortunate to build a team of talented individuals who share my vision and passion. The supportive network of friends, family and loyal clients has also been key factor in our success. While luck has opened doors, it been or dedication and effort that have allowed us to walk through them and thrive.
In the end its a blend of luck, hard work, and the constant drive to improve that has shaped our journey. I believe in creating our own luck by being prepared and open to new possibilities, and that mindset has been instrumental in growing Essence of Locks into what is it today!
Pricing:
- Lowest $75 per hour
- Mid $95 per hour
- High $120 per hour
- Technical $140 per hour
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Essence of Locks
- Facebook: Essence of Locks
- Twitter: Essence of locks
- Youtube: Essence of Locks
