Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Matinez.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I knew I wanted to do hair by the age of five when I started cutting my own bangs, never did I master that but I did master the art of barbering, I got the amazing opportunity to train with some of the best barbers in Fort Worth today.
I felt like I was in a barber boot camp for months and I remember the feeling of frustration and the thought of giving up. As a woman it’s a little tougher being new to a barbershop, I was often turned down by regular walk-ins because they doubted my skill & I had never paid attention to the detail In a men’s cut, it wasn’t until I actually had to! And let me tell you it wasn’t easy.
I’ve worked at a couple of different shops in Fort Worth all which I am grateful for … I learned so much from each and every barber and built strong friendships with them as well as with clients, I’ve been in the industry for about 10 years now and I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.
In June 2018, I decided to go solo, I had just had a baby boy in May & I needed more time and flexibility for him and my daughter, sometimes I miss the jokes and the atmosphere at a Barber Shop it’s very distinct, I loved it! but I enjoy what I do and I love working for myself, this is only a stepping stone for me as I hope to continue to aspire in the barber industry.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The hardest part was going from being a stylist at Great Clips to a barber at a Legit Barbershop, I was Intimidated every barber in there was super talented and I didn’t even know how to style a man’s hair, my clippers would literally overheat!
Please tell us about Estilos.
I have my own suite at Salon & Spa Galleria, I am so proud and grateful for my clientele , I’ve built a great relationship with all of them and continue to have new referrals in on a weekly basis , I love to help people whether its advice or just boosting someone’s self-esteem and making them feel great about themselves.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing, I think I’ve learned from everything and I couldn’t be happier with the timing of how it’s all taken place, I had lots of struggles in the beginning but it also taught me to always be humble.
Contact Info:
- Address: Salon & Spa Galleria
5230 Denton Hwy
Fort Worth, TX 76148 - Website: Estilosbarber.com
- Phone: 8179023965
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credit:
Jesus Guzman
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