Loren Zoe Gregory sat down with Stereotype to talk about her business journey in our latest edition of 'Respect The Founder.’

Where are you from?

Staten Island

What was your first business? How old were you?

I opened Love is in the Hair by Loren Zoe at 31 years old

When did you know working for yourself was the way to go?

About 5 years ago, I had the idea of wanting to work for myself because of the hostile work environment that came with working at a luxury high-end salon in Midtown, Manhattan. This experience partnered with the beginning of the pandemic propelled me to take a chance on myself. Fortunately, I had the support of my family, friends, and community to bring Love is in the Hair by Loren Zoe to life. It was incredibly risky to open a brick-and-mortar business, especially in the developing area of Rosebank, Staten Island but, having strong neighborhood ties played a huge part in the success of the salon.

Can you talk us through your career to date and how you found your way to where you are now?

Once upon a time, my journey in the hair industry began with a humble broom in hand. In the early years of my career, I toiled behind the scenes, cleaning every inch of the salon with unwavering dedication. The rhythmic hum of hairdryers and the vibrant energy of stylists fueled my passion and ignited a dream within me.

With time, I yearned to be more than just a silent observer. Determined to learn the craft, I embraced every opportunity to absorb knowledge from the seasoned professionals around me. I delved into the intricacies of colors, cuts, and styles, eager to transform my passion into tangible skills.

Through countless hours of practice, constant self-improvement, and a hunger for knowledge, I climbed the ladder of success. From an apprentice, I evolved into a skilled stylist, specializing in the art of color. The canvas of hair became my playground, where I painted strokes of vibrant hues and brought dreams to life.

Yet, my ambition refused to rest. The desire to create a space where artistry and client experience intertwined grew stronger within me. Fueled by determination, I embarked on a new chapter, taking a leap of faith to establish my own salon.

The path to entrepreneurship was not without challenges. Countless sleepless nights, financial hurdles, and unyielding perseverance tested my resolve. However, armed with my years of experience, unwavering passion, and a vision of providing exceptional service, I forged ahead.

Today, as the owner of my own salon, I stand proudly as a testament to the power of hard work and relentless pursuit of dreams. The once-humble broom that adorned my hands now serves as a reminder of the transformative journey I undertook.

With each client who walks through the door, I strive to create a haven where their individuality is celebrated, where their desires are translated into breathtaking transformations. It is a place where art meets skill, where dreams are woven into strands of vibrant color, and where I continue to grow as a master colorist.

From sweeping floors to owning a salon, my story is a testament to the unwavering passion, perseverance, and unyielding belief in oneself. The hair industry is not merely a career; it is an art form that empowers and uplifts, both stylist and client alike. And in this beautifully tangled journey, I have found my true calling, my own masterpiece created one strand at a time.

What inspired you to start your business?

In the depths of my soul, a spark ignited, fueled by a relentless desire for freedom and creativity. It was that fire within me that motivated me to take the leap and start my own business. I yearned to break free from the confines of traditional employment, to shape my own destiny, and to bring my unique vision to life. It was the passion for my craft, the unwavering belief in my abilities, and the insatiable hunger to make a difference that inspired me to embark on this entrepreneurial journey. With every challenge, setback, and triumph, I am reminded of the driving force that led me here—the unyielding pursuit of a dream that refuses to be silenced. Now, armed with passion, determination, and an unshaken spirit, I forge ahead, ready to leave an indelible mark on the community through my own business.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see in your market?

The hair industry presents various challenges some of the most significant ones are keeping up evolving trends, meeting client expectations, building a reputation of trust and adapting to industry changes. My industry is influenced by technological advancements, product innovations, and changing consumer behavior. Staying flexible and embracing new tools, techniques, and trends is necessary to remain competitive and relevant in a dynamic market.

What advice do you have for professionals looking to get started in your industry?

If you're considering a career in the hair industry some valuable pieces of advice to get you started are:

1) Invest in your education and training
2) Apprenticeship and mentorship is key to learning the craft
3) Make sure to master the fundamentals, focus on perfecting the basics
4) Embrace continuous learning

Remember building a successful career in the hair industry takes time, effort, and perseverance. With the right mindset, a commitment to ongoing learning, and a genuine love for the art of hair you can embark on a fulfilling journey in this field.

Can you recommend one good business book, business podcast/radio show?

'The Art of Living' by Bob Proctor

What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream?

The best advice I can give someone with a dream is to build a supportive network. Surround yourself with individuals who believe in you and your dreams. Seek out like-minded people who share your passion and can offer guidance and support. Having a strong support system will not only inspire you but also provide valuable insights and encouragement during challenging times.

Connect

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/loveisinthehairbylorenzoe

Facebook.com: http://www.facebook.com/loveisinthehairbylorenzoe

Business Website: http://www.loveisinthehairbylorenzoe.com

Photography credit: @daniree
@rickwellman
@lorenzoee_