Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandra Ayinbode.
Sandra, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started watching my mother who’d sit my siblings and I (four girls total) down just about every Sunday to do our hair. I watched her braid often and one day just started doing it. When she realized I could do hair, that became my job. I braided hair for friends and people in the area from the age of 13 and throughout my time in the Army, I wanted to be able to charge prices like a professional, so after serving, I went to Paul Mitchell so I could get my cosmetology license and be considered professional. The first week of school, I sat in class and I realized that I was exactly where I was supposed to be. Also, I took note that the field of Cosmetology has endless opportunities that were open to more than just hair. I then decided to branch outside of hair and into nails, lashes, and waxing. I taught myself how to do nails while in school since there wasn’t a curriculum.
To be honest, I added up all the times I went to the nail shop and I decided to save some money by doing it myself. I performed services on my classmates and self. Any practice I could get was adding toward my education. After school, I got my first job in the cosmetology field waxing bodies. I quickly saw that I loved having that one on one with individual clients. In the hair salon, it can get a little noisy from everything surrounding you, so the quietness and the intimate space was a bit more comforting. I believe that with self-care it’s important to get that downtime needed and if you can get pampered comfortably, and in an intimate setting, it makes your experience that much more enjoyable. I get a sense of comfort giving clients EXACTLY what they ask for in the most comfortable way possible. This industry is continuously growing and you have to be able to stand out in some way. I have gotten where I am today by providing the best customer service I know how, and making each and every client as comfortable as they can be in a safe space, no matter the gender.
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?
It has not always been a smooth road. Before I really decided to take my career into my own hands, I dealt with things in the Army that I’d wish upon no one in their lifetime. Above that, I decided that I want a better future for myself, so I continue to strive to be the best I can, spreading genuine love and happiness everywhere I can. Starting a business is no joke, and not everyone is willing to give you a hand. I just remind myself daily to take it one day at a time. My goals are now being met effortlessly after all the hard work I’ve put into myself and my business.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Aja Velvet – what should we know?
My business is called Aja Velvet LLC and I provide services to both men and women. I wax full body, I’m mobile with nails, and I also provide classic lash sets. I know that the volume and hybrid lashes are “poppin” right now, but I love a natural looking fresh face, so I specialize in classic lash sets that enhance your natural beauty. I’m known for taking my time and providing exactly what each client wants with care.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
CUSTOMER SERVICE!! I would be nowhere without my clients and customer service is what is needed to keep your clientele growing and coming back.
Pricing:
- $50 special on 1st time Brazilians
- $50 Classic lash extensions (full sets and refills)
Contact Info:
- Phone: 346.327.5467
- Email: ajavelvet18@gmail.com
- Instagram: @ajavelvet
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