Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Anne Vinson.
Karen Anne, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
As a hairdresser for 30 years I’ve seen many people who desire a better hair color, but due to time or money cannot visit a salon for the quality hair color they know exist, instead they use a box hair color. Five years ago I came up with the idea to help them and solve a few color problems in the process.
After many years of testing and negotiating with a color manufacturer in Italy, I developed small tubes with cream color that can be custom blended specifically for each customer. I consult with customers online or in person and prescribe their color and ship to their home with the personalized instructions. I also partner with other hairdressers around the country who want to offer this service as well.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been a smooth road. I keep saying if this were easy everyone would be doing this. It took me a year just to find a quality manufacturer to talk to me and use small tubes. Next was funding. Tech companies can get funding pretty easily, however, a new unique business idea requires the ability to inspire others to invest.
My next big struggle is changing the mindset of the consumers and hairdressers. More people color their hair at home than in the salon. Salons are afraid they will lose their color business if they help those who color their hair at home. That is not the case when stylists help everyone they become the expert! If a chef teaches you to cook, does it stop you from eating out?
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Della Ricca – what should we know?
Della Ricca is an independent small boutique company that custom blends quality hair color for home use. We use small cream color in the lowest ammonia strength that results in a translucent vibrant color.
Other company’s use a liquid color due to long shelf life, which requires a high ammonia to process the color, leaving the hair in a dull over the processed result.
I’m very proud that each customer gets a personalized consultation with a real hair colorist with your first order. No order can be processed without this. Some consultations result in a deny and are referred to hair colorist in their area.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
The other hairdressers who believe in this new idea and have helped and supported me at trade shows. We hair colorists are missing out on a $3 Billion a year industry.
Contact Info:
- Address: 131059 Houston, TX. 77219
- Website: www.dellaricchaircolor.com
- Phone: 832-916-3232
- Email: karenannevinson@dellariccahaircolor.com
- Instagram: dellaricca
- Facebook: Della Ricca Hair Color
- Twitter: DellaRiccaColor
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