Today we’d like to introduce you to Monet Thomas-Shaw.
Hi Monet, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was raised by my grandfather and I started styling my hair as a little girl. In middle school, my classmates would compliment my hairstyles. I graduated from Jack Yates Senior High School, where I attended cosmetology during my junior and senior year. In high school, I started braiding my friends’ hair, and they would refer other clients. I was running a business out of my bedroom, taking appointments when I didn’t have school or work. After graduating from high school in 1997 I went on to attend the University of Houston-Downtown, I completed one year of college before I started working as a stylist, and I wanted to make sure I prioritize my work schedule so that I could attend school. I started earning money very early so I understand the influence of money but I really value education. While attending college I took real estate classes and became a realtor. I worked at a local hair salon in the community where I grew up “Hair By Inez”. The owner of the salon “Inez” helped develop my skills as a new stylist. Working at her salon for 2 years allowed me to learn so much. The opportunity to open my own salon was presented to me and I opened for business on September 1, 2001, yes the day they attacked New York City. My first salon was located at 5123 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd in a 700 sq ft space. I worked with some wonderful stylists and we had some great times like; featured magazines, teaching classes, hair shows and competitions. After 7 years at my first location, I expanded to my current location 4431 Griggs Road Houston, Tx 7021, October 30, 2010. I really enjoyed designing the salon and overseeing all of the construction work. My carrier as a stylist has granted me the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, a Master’s in Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, an Associate’s in Construction Management, and a Real Estate License. This business has opened so many doors for me, during the pandemic I launched my product line Eshallence Luxury Hair Care, which consists of shampoo, conditioner, twist and lock paste and thermal protector. I really enjoy investing, so over the last couple of years I purchased four rental properties and I’m currently developing a commercial strip center. I enjoy meeting new people and I love helping bring out the beauty in people. I’ve met so many amazing people in this business, many of my clients have become close friends and family to me. As a stylist with over 22 years of experience and success, I’m happy with the choices I’ve made. I’m married with 3 kids, 2 girls and a boy. My husband is such a blessing he works with my crazy work schedule and my many business ventures. Working as a stylist keeps me going to so many different events and I must say I love every minute of it.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My first salon needed so much work and I had no idea what was in store. The landlord refused to repair anything and I spent a lot of money making repairs. I learned early in the business the importance of having dependable repair companies. During the pandemic I invested in another rental property, buying this home keeps me very busy and I enjoy staying busy. I had no idea what was next for my business, but everything has worked out better than I could have ever imagined.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Eshallence Hair Design?
My first love was hair, then business and last finances. After combining all my passions, I’ve helped repair clients’ credit, places single moms in their first homes, sold couples their dream homes and helped clients invest. My mission is to help everyone I can meet their true potential. I have a gift and I work well with people many people say I’m a people person. I’m always educating myself, I want to take all the knowledge I have and help people grow. I help clients negotiate deals and make very serious decisions. I really enjoy it when my clients say “I’ll call Monet she’ll know the answer” they really make me feel great. I’ve come to realize I can’t help everyone I can only help the ones who want my help.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I’m a huge fan of Suze Orman and Dave Ramsey. I had the great opportunity to meet Suze Orman in California and I meet Dave Ramsey at the Ramsey studio in Tennessee. I listen to podcasts and read; finance books, spiritual books and investing material. I enjoy 8-10 mile runs, 2-3 hour gym workouts, hot yoga, and adventure. I enjoy traveling as much as possible. I’ve seen Hawaii, Paris, London, Rome, Punta Cana, Los Cabos, and many many other places. I’ve had the opportunity to ski, white water raft, drive snowmobiles, and relax in the hot springs in Denver.
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