From Kitchen Scissors to $1 Million Dollar Salon: What Barbers Can Learn from a Self-Made Success Story
The world of cosmetology is brimming with opportunities for passionate individuals, and as a barber entering the field, you might be wondering how to carve out a truly successful and fulfilling career. Look no further than the inspiring journey of Sess Lee Cannon, whose story, as featured on CNBC Make It, proves that dedication, strategic thinking, and a genuine love for your craft can lead to remarkable achievements – even without a traditional bachelor’s degree.
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The Unconventional Path to Success: A Summary of Sess Lee Cannon’s Journey
At 20, with a fresh perspective from an unexpected compliment on a haircut she gave with kitchen scissors, Sess Lee Cannon had an epiphany. Despite a promising corporate job in accounting, she yearned for creative freedom. This pivotal moment led her to pivot careers entirely, enrolling in cosmetology school.
After completing her program and securing her license, Lee started small, taking on clients at home and working part-time in a natural hair salon. Her breakthrough came with the rise of social media. By actively utilizing platforms like Facebook, she showcased her talent, particularly with curly and natural hair, a niche she understood intimately due to her own biracial background. This strategic use of social media helped her build a strong reputation and a loyal following.
In 2016, a desire for change and a move to Texas propelled her to take the ultimate leap: opening her own salon, Flourish Curls Salon. With $50,000 of her savings and ten months of hard work, her dream became a reality in 2017. Her foresight in building an online presence paid off, as Flourish Curls quickly gained popularity, with a waitlist of eager clients.
Today, Flourish Curls Salon boasts 11 stylists (including Lee, who now takes on only a few clients monthly) and generated a remarkable $1.1 million in revenue last year. Lee’s personal take-home pay is between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, all while working just three days a week. Her success is a testament to identifying a niche, leveraging technology, building a strong team, and prioritizing work-life balance.
Career Advice for Aspiring Barbers: Lessons from a Million-Dollar Stylist
Sess Lee Cannon’s journey offers invaluable lessons for any aspiring barber looking to not just survive, but thrive, in the industry.
- Embrace Your Passion and Niche Down: Lee’s story highlights the power of following your true calling. She loved doing hair for fun, and that genuine passion eventually translated into a highly successful career. As a barber, identify what truly excites you about the craft. Do you love intricate fades, classic shaves, or modern texture work? Finding your niche – whether it’s working with specific hair types, styles, or even client demographics – can help you stand out and attract a dedicated clientele.
- Master Your Craft (and Keep Learning): While Lee had a natural “gift,” she still invested in formal education and continuously honed her skills. Cosmetology school provided the foundation, and her personal experience with curly hair led her to specialize. The barbering industry is constantly evolving. Invest in ongoing education, attend workshops, and stay updated on the latest trends and techniques. The more skilled you become, the more value you can offer your clients.
- Harness the Power of Social Media: This is perhaps one of the most critical takeaways from Lee’s success. In today’s digital age, social media is your free marketing tool.
- Create a Professional Portfolio: Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your best work with high-quality photos and videos.
- Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments, answer questions, and build a community around your brand.
- Offer Value: Share tips, product recommendations, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your work to keep your audience engaged.
- Consider YouTube: If you’re comfortable on camera, creating tutorial videos or style guides can significantly expand your reach, as evidenced by Lee’s nearly 60,000 YouTube subscribers.
- Build a Strong Network and Clientele: Lee started by taking on clients at home and working part-time in a salon, building her reputation organically. As a new barber:
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from experienced barbers in your area.
- Provide Exceptional Customer Service: Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful. Make every client feel valued and give them a reason to return.
- Consider Assisting or Apprenticeships: Many states require it, but even if not, working as an assistant can provide invaluable hands-on experience and a foot in the door at a reputable establishment.
- Think Like an Entrepreneur (Even if You’re Employed): Lee’s eventual leap to salon ownership was fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit. Even if you’re not planning to open your own shop right away, adopt an entrepreneurial mindset:
- Manage Your Finances: Understand your income and expenses.
- Market Yourself: Treat your personal brand as a business.
- Develop Strong Communication Skills: This is crucial for client relations and networking.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Take Calculated Risks: Lee made a significant career change and then a big move to a new state to pursue her dreams. While not every risk pays off, being open to new opportunities and stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to incredible growth.
- Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Lee’s ability to earn a six-figure income while working only three days a week is inspiring. As you progress in your career, remember to create a sustainable work schedule that allows for personal time and avoids burnout. Building a strong team, as Lee did, can be instrumental in achieving this.
Sess Lee Cannon’s journey from kitchen scissors to a million-dollar salon is a powerful reminder that success in the beauty industry is within reach for those with passion, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt. By applying these lessons, barbers entering the field can build not just a job, but a thriving and rewarding career.
