Welcome back to Stylist Soul Tribe Conversations! In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Grace Stephenson, a dedicated member of our Stylist Soul Tribe and the owner of Verdant Salon and Suites in Lincoln, Illinois. Grace's journey from working in various salon environments to opening her own beautiful space is truly inspiring. In this blog post, we'll highlight some of the key takeaways from our conversation with Grace and delve into her story of growth and success.
Grace’s Early Start in the Beauty Industry
Grace's journey in the beauty industry began early. She graduated high school ahead of schedule and jumped straight into cosmetology school. Balancing multiple jobs, including working at a restaurant and babysitting, she gained valuable experience and built a solid foundation for her career. Her determination and hard work paid off as she navigated the challenges of starting out in the industry.
Career Transitions and Growth
After working at various salons, Grace moved to Lincoln to be closer to her family. She transitioned through different salon environments, from commission-based salons to booth rentals, before ultimately deciding to open her own suite. Each step in her career provided her with new insights and experiences, shaping her vision for her future salon.
Joining Stylist Soul Tribe
Two years ago, Grace joined the Stylist Soul Tribe, which became a transformative experience for her. The community provided her with the support and flexibility she needed to balance her work and personal life better. With encouragement from fellow members, she phased out working nights and weekends, allowing her to achieve a healthier work-life balance.
The Birth of Verdant Salon and Suites
Opening Verdant Salon and Suites was a significant milestone for Grace. Initially planning to create a suite-based salon, she eventually shifted to a commission-based model. The name "Verdant" symbolizes growth in various aspects—professionally, personally, and environmentally. Grace’s vision for her salon is to be a place of growth and support for all who walk through its doors.
Embracing Flexibility and Personal Growth
As a salon owner, Grace has had to balance numerous roles and responsibilities. She employs time-blocking and task management strategies to stay organized and efficient. Emphasizing the importance of solitude and personal growth, Grace encourages others to be comfortable with their thoughts and address any discomfort they may feel. This practice has been vital in her journey towards self-improvement and success.
Future Vision for Verdant Salon and Suites
Looking ahead, Grace hopes to expand Verdant Salon and Suites. Whether it means opening more locations or eventually moving to a different area, her goal is to continue creating a supportive environment for stylists. She is also passionate about providing education and training opportunities, helping others in the industry grow and succeed.
Community and Support
Grace’s journey has been significantly impacted by the support of communities like Kingdom Initiatives and the Stylist Soul Tribe. These networks have provided her with invaluable advice, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Grace’s story is a testament to the power of community and the importance of having a support system.
Advice for Aspiring Salon Owners
Grace’s story offers valuable insights for those aspiring to own their own salons. Trust your instincts, be open to change, and balance personal life with professional responsibilities. Seek support from communities and networks that align with your values and goals. Most importantly, take the time to grow personally and professionally, and don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams.
Grace Stephenson’s journey from suite to salon owner is a powerful example of growth, resilience, and success. Her story reminds us that with determination, support, and a clear vision, we can achieve our goals and create the life and business we desire.
To hear more about Grace’s inspiring journey, listen to the full episode of Stylist Soul Tribe Conversations. Don’t forget to follow us on social media and subscribe to our podcast for more stories of growth and success in the beauty industry.
