Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan McKinley.
Hi Megan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I started with an interest in hair at the age of 13. I attended a private school in Los Angeles, CA. Our principal asked us what elective classes we wanted & I mentioned hair braiding. She found a teacher who taught us all there was to know about braiding. I continued practicing and using it as a way to earn money in middle school & high school.
I took time off to focus on college & my family. I moved to Texas in 2012 & realized I hated my 9-5. That’s when I decided to go to cosmetology school.
I completed cosmetology school in 2015. I’ve worked as an assistant, as a commission stylist, a booth renter, a suite renter to now having my own salon space.
My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth it. I’ve taken many classes to help along the way. I study trends & I’m naturally a go-getter.
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?
The journey has not been easy. I’m a mom of 3 so that is challenging enough. I’ve had slow periods; I’ve taken pay cuts to work as an assistant to learn how to run a salon. Being a mom whose husband was a truck driver was a challenge. If the kids got sick or needed to be picked up early, it was on me, even with a full week of clients.
It’s hard work to make sure everything in the salon is stocked (water, coffee, wine, cups, towels, etc). If something goes wrong, you’re the one they call.
No one talks about having to budget as a business owner when your pay fluctuates. It took me years to figure out a business budget & how to properly pay myself. I got it now!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
Zior Studios is my baby. I birthed my salon in 2019. I dedicated it to my older children (the 3rd wasn’t born). The name is my son’s first name Zion & my daughter’s middle name Dior.
We are one of the best Natural Hair Salons in Houston. I specialize in all things natural hair. Hair care is my #1 priority. As far as styling, I do braids, locs, silk press, crochet, natural twists and extension twists, updos, twist-outs, and rod sets. I’m known for my two-strand twists, Afro goddess twists & braided or twisted pin-up styles.
I’m different from most salons because I practice hair care. I shampoo & deep condition every client. It isn’t a la carte; it’s included. I offer a wide variety of styles. & I teach you how to care for your hair at home.
I’m proud that I’ve been able to sustain my business thus far. Almost 4 years, Through a pandemic. I’m also proud that I’ve housed & rented spaces to some amazing artist along the way. Some established some building clientele, and I’ve been able to help them.
Our services are top-tier. We cater to our clients and make sure they have the most rewarding experience. We are a luxury brand & treat our clients as such.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future are to have a successful natural hair care line. It had to take a backseat when I got pregnant with my 3rd child. He has since turned 1 & I’m almost ready to hit the ground running again. I also plan to offer wig services in the near future.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ziorstudios.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/zior_studios
Image Credits
Camille Percy Jaio Photography
