Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaela Amos.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Being brought up in prayer, I let God lead me into understanding my talents and gifts. I come from a long line of businesswomen and beauty professionals. It felt quite inevitable for me to find joy in doing hair and operating my own business. While growing up, I watched my family (specifically my mom and great-grandmother) do their hair. They are the stepping stones to my passion and I will always be ever so grateful.
My great grandmother, Willie B. Perry, owned her own beauty salon next door to her house in Acres Home. Many women in that community, myself included, got their hair done there. This shop was a staple in my family. Many of my family members began their careers working there before venturing off on their own professional journeys. I, too, shadowed many of my family members watching and learning as much as I could. For years I took the back seat and watched as they clipped, braided, and dyed clients’ hair. I have never stopped shadowing and have always enjoyed the sight of customers’ big smiles after a new hairdo.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would be lying if I said it was easy—the desire to be perfect, time management, and learning how the business operates can be pretty bittersweet. Having to give up so much of my social life was difficult for me in the beginning. I learned very quickly about the company I had versus the company I needed. With operating on my own and doing so much outside of my business, I learned that I needed a more understanding and supportive circle. Aside from being a hair braider, I am a student at UTSA pursuing a major in psychology and currently a medical receptionist. Some days I wish I had a little more downtime to go out with friends and have miscellaneous fun, but I know where I’m trying to go; partying and horsing around all of the time isn’t going to get me there. Since I am a small business, I needed to come to terms with finding another mode of steady income until the business grew, and I had to be okay with making mistakes and taking harsh criticism. The key is to effectively listen for understanding and remember it’s always for the betterment of the client as well as myself. Things happen, I’m not perfect, but I sure try to give it my all and hope for a good outcome.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a 22-year-old traveling beauty professional currently specializing in protective styles of all forms. There is not just one thing I am most proud of, since many things tie into my success. I’m proud of everything within this profession such as my clientele, the work put in behind the scenes, and all of my downfalls. My desire to genuinely connect with all my clients, by taking the time out to get to know every one of them is what sets me apart. This in turn creates a welcoming and safe environment that builds long-lasting relationships.
I offer discounts for service members and graduates (that includes boot camps and trade schools), along with seasonal sales. Also, for an additional charge I service a bottle of wine of the client’s choosing (must be 21 and up of course). Following me on Instagram @jaelasbeauty is the best way to get updates on my sales and techniques.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
My perseverance. With any business comes hardship. I have pushed through and overcame much adversity, which in turn has helped me grow as an entrepreneur. Through my perseverance, I service many high-end clients, have doubled my monthly income, am currently pursuing a degree, and continuously growing my network. I never want to stay down, so the only way to go is up.
Pricing:
- Braids start at $105
- Faux Locs start at $120
- Twist (passion/spring) start at $95
- Feed-ins start at $100
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jaelasbeauty?r=nametag
Image Credits
Jeremiah Bennett
Jaela Amos
