Today we’d like to introduce you to Lhonette Charles.
Hi Lhonette, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Grew up in France, where I developed a passion for beauty and fashion. From a young age, I knew that cosmetology and creative hairstyling were my true callings. At 16, after finishing high school, I told my parents I didn’t want to follow the traditional college path,I wanted to attend cosmetology school. They were disappointed, as they had hoped I would become a doctor or lawyer, but I chose to follow my heart anyway.
After graduating from cosmetology school ,I began working as a hair assistant at a salon called Flavio Capelli. Than working for l’oreal for 5 years That’s when love unexpectedly came into my life. Over 15 years ago, I found the love of my life, which led me to the U.S., specifically Miami, in 2010.
In Miami, I worked in a salon for about ten years, building my craft, earning trust, and honing my skills. However, in 2020, the salon I was with closed due to COVID-19. I found myself at home for three months, reflecting and brainstorming about what to do next. With faith in God and a belief in my dreams, I took a bold step. In 2020, I opened my own salon, Studio Raupo, with my business partner, Wendy Mongiardo.
Today, as a hair colorist and salon owner in Miami, I take pride in the work I do. It’s not just about creating beautiful hairstyles, it’s about making my clients happy, staying true to my word, and maintaining integrity and self-confidence.
That’s my story so far, from france to Miami, from an assistant to a salon owner. Along the way, I’ve faced obstacles, but I’ve also made bold moves, pursued my passions, and demonstrated resilience.
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?
Smooth? Not at all. But that’s what makes the story worth telling.
Being a woman of color in the beauty industry has meant navigating spaces that weren’t always designed for people like me. There were times I walked into professional rooms and didn’t see anyone who looked like me behind the chair, and that can be intimidating. But instead of letting it discourage me, it lit a fire in me.
I wanted to show that artistry and excellence have no color boundary. I had to work twice as hard to be recognized, to prove that my skills, professionalism, and creativity belong on every level, from everyday clients to luxury spaces.
And beyond that, I faced the struggles many business owner does, balancing motherhood, personal life, and entrepreneurship, keeping up with trends, education, and learning to trust the process even when it felt uncertain.
But through every challenge, I held on to my faith, my passion, and my family. I wanted to create a space where women, especially women who look like me, can feel beautiful, valued, and seen. That’s what keeps me moving forward.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The hair and beauty industry is on the brink of some exciting changes, and I’m really looking forward to it! Right now, I’m keeping an eye on 3 major trends that I think will shape the next 5 to 10 years:
The first is customized artistry. Clients today want more than just a “one-size-fits-all” approach to hair color and styling. They’re looking for stylists who really understand them, from their hair texture to their lifestyle. They are looking for personalized color, customized treatments, and genuine connections.
Secondly, we are at a point where health and sustainability meet beauty. It’s not just about making hair look fantastic anymore. Clients also want to keep it healthy. We’re seeing a shift towards less damaging techniques and a respect for both hair integrity and the planet. It’s exciting to see growth in wellness-focused haircare and eco-friendly brands!
Lastly, texture, inclusion, and diversity are the norm. As hair types diversify, clients are actively looking for stylists who really get their hair. The industry has had to embrace all textures from curly, coily, wavy, to straight. The industry is waking up to the importance of training that covers all hair types.
In a nutshell, the salon of the future is all about blending artistry, authenticity, and wellness. If you’re paying attention and ready to jump in, this is a fantastic time to be part of this exciting journey!
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The hair and beauty industry is on the brink of some exciting changes, and I’m really looking forward to it! Right now, I’m keeping an eye on 3 major trends that I think will shape the next 5 to 10 years:
The first is customized artistry. Clients today want more than just a “one-size-fits-all” approach to hair color and styling. They’re looking for stylists who really understand them, from their hair texture to their lifestyle. They are looking for personalized color, customized treatments, and genuine connections.
Secondly, we are at a point where health and sustainability meet beauty. It’s not just about making hair look fantastic anymore. Clients also want to keep it healthy. We’re seeing a shift towards less damaging techniques and a respect for both hair integrity and the planet. It’s exciting to see growth in wellness-focused haircare and eco-friendly brands!
Lastly, texture, inclusion, and diversity are the norm. As hair types diversify, clients are actively looking for stylists who really get their hair. The industry has had to embrace all textures from curly, coily, wavy, to straight. The industry is waking up to the importance of training that covers all hair types.
In a nutshell, the salon of the future is all about blending artistry, authenticity, and wellness. If you’re paying attention and ready to jump in, this is a fantastic time to be part of this exciting journey!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Lhonettehair / Studio Raūpo
