Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole DeStefano.
Nicole, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I began my career as a counselor- working in both Domestic and Sexual Violence. I found a deep passion for helping women. In 2008, when the economy crashed, I was planning to go back to school for my masters but I didn’t want to take on so much debt.
I started a small blog and YouTube channel in my spare time devoted to hair and makeup and I just loved it.
I went to hair school at 27 and completely shifted gears.
Fast forward four years and my husband and I decided to move to Texas to be closer to family.
I began working in a salon suite and got so busy I had to hire an assistant.
I wanted to help coach people and teach them how to make a passion for hair something more; a career.
My family saw the passion and success happening in my tiny closet and decided to invest in a brick and mortar stand-alone location for Beauty Hive- our Tribe was born.
We started in 100 sq ft and have expanded to 3,000.
We have an incredible team of stylists, lash artist, and front desk support.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have certainly had a smooth road compared to many. I’ve never had the bottom fall out from under me or have to decide whether or not I was going to feed my children or pay my electric bill. I know MANY small business owners have to make these difficult choices and I am grateful for the support from my family to help me pursue a dream without those challenging realities.
What hardships I have faced have often been self-created.
I’ve fought deep fears, doubts, and ego through my journey.
I’ve walked through terribly uncomfortable situations because I knew I had to for greater success.
The best advice I can give any woman moving through her own journey is to do the uncomfortable. Your dreams are yours- there is no one like you, no one with the same vision and your vision matters.
Do one small step and you will find a path you didn’t know existed!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Beauty Hive Salon – what should we know?
As a service provider, I am known for my low maintenance blondes- particularly balayage.
As a provider to women, I strive to be a day maker- someone committed to making your experience at our salon the absolute best part of your day.
As an organization, we are known for consistency- every provider is trained by me not only in technical skills but in how to consult, post on social media, provide an outstanding experience.
Though each of us is different and provide our own unique set of experiences and perspectives, we are all consistent in that our culture is deeply rooted in excellence and customer service. I am confident no matter what provider or front desk staff a client comes into contact with they will be cared for and loved.
We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
I think being a working mom is still a huge struggle. The cost of childcare is rising and it’s very hard to justify the cost at times.
In our industry particularly the challenges are huge in that we are only paid for the services we perform- so when we are sick or Our kiddo is and we cannot work it not only feels terrible to let a customer down but we are financially impacted greatly.
I also think women tend to be highly competitive and it can be tough to be a female leader because often others don’t want to see you succeed.
I am so proud of the fact our culture at Beauty Hive is one of community over competition. We want the person next to us to achieve greatness as much as we want it for ourselves.
Contact Info:
- Address: 104 Country View Dr
Suite 200
Roanoke, TX 76262 - Website: https://www.beautyhivesalon.com
- Phone: 682-704-5115
- Email: info@nicoledestefano.com
- Instagram: nicole.beautyhive
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beautyhivesalon
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/beautyhivethesalon
Image Credit:
Nikole Michelle
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