Today we’d like to introduce you to Safa Shamma.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I moved to the US (New Jersey) in the summer of 2001 from Dubai (UAE). I am originally Syrian but I grew up all over the Middle East. Finished high school in Wayne, NJ. Then, went to college for communications, I unfortunately never finished. I then became a makeup artist and worked at a salon for about three years. I came to Houston in February 2013. My family had moved here from New Jersey. I used to come visit them and I loved it. I had just decided to take a year off and traveled all over (Florida, Netherlands, Italy, UAE, Chicago). Then, when I was ready in June 2014, I enrolled at Paul Mitchell the school. I thankfully was done in about eight months. Doing hair was everything my soul needed to come alive. I truly enjoy the human connection and interaction of it. I must have applied to 30 jobs after school was over. I was specifically looking for an apprenticeship. I then got lucky to apprentice under my boss Justin Dall. His talent and work ethic truly inspired me. He truly helped me thrive in this industry. Now, it’s four years later, I am a Goldwell color educator going to work every day doing something I love. It’s a true blessing to be able to have clients that love you and support you the way mine do. I take pride and honor in my job, my clients always inspire me to want to do better.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It was a rough patch for sure. Moving to the US and adjusting to life here was very difficult but it was truly a blessing. I wouldn’t have made it without the support of my family. We are thankfully very close, don’t get me wrong, we have our moments but they truly came through for me in every way possible. When I made the decision to go to school, they were there to help make that happen every step of the way. I was going to school full time and waitressing at the Banquet hall where my sister is a manager. I wouldn’t be here today without the love and support of my family. I definitely also owe so much to Justin Dall for taking a chance in me and investing in me the way he did. Along the way, I’ve made some great friends and a great support system for my life that keep me sane and help me pull through when I need to.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I would like to think I’ve built my business of great customer service and complete honesty with my clients. I specialize in a few things. Corrective color, blonding services/foliage, and balayage. I am transparent with the way I do business. I educate the client as much as possible on whatever it is we are about to do to their hair. I’ll break down the process as simple as possible I’ll discuss home care and how much maintenance their color will need. Even my clients who just come in for haircuts, I’ll talk to them about all their hair concerns. Sometimes, it’s just switching out your product or attaching a shower head filter that makes all the difference in the world. Clients want to be heard, making them feel comfortable is key. Sometimes, coming into the salon, especially a high-end one can be an intimidating experience my job is to make their hair dreams come true.
What were you like growing up?
A lot of people are surprised because I was a complete tomboy. I loved playing soccer being outside mud was always involved. I was mostly left alone because I think the other kids just knew not to mess with me, I usually stood up to the bullies. Never part of the popular crowd and I take pride in that to this day. I have major JOMO. My heart fell in love with makeup around 13 years old. My aunt one summer in Syria sat me down and put makeup on me and my heart was owned by the power of makeup. I was a makeup artist for about ten years before I went into doing hair professionally. I hate working out but love the results. I spend a lot of time at home with my cats or my family. I am always wanting to perfect my craft, always thinking of ways to make it better.
I love traveling, I believe it’s the most inspiring thing to do ever. When you travel, you see the beauty that’s in this world. You connect with people that don’t even understand the language your speaking, yet you can share a laugh or connect over the smallest thing. It’s the best kind of human interaction.
Contact Info:
- Address: 7951 Katy FWY
Unit F
Houston, TX 77024 - Website: Www.jdallhairsalon.com
- Facebook: Styled by Safa
- Instagram: @styledbySafa
- Phone: 7134438144
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