Life and Work with Caroline Planas and Monica Menchero

Today we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Planas and Monica Menchero.

Caroline and Monica, please share your story with us. 
Caroline:
My mom, Aracelly, owned and worked in salons my entire life. I have vivid memories of having a play area set up in the back color room. As a teenager, I didn’t think that becoming a hair stylist would be my path but that all changed the minute I realized I could be good at it. Crystal Beauty Salon is was established in 1992 by my mom. It’s where my career began and where I saw so many family members and stylists perfect their craft. Three years ago, my mom retired and I saw the perfect opportunity to partner up with my cousin Monica. We both shared the dream and drive to continue our family legacy.

Monica:
I fell in love with the beauty industry at a very young age, watching my aunts and cousin transforming women and giving them self-confidence. I knew I wanted to be a part of that. I’ve been a hairstylist for 10 years now. I absolutely love this industry and knew I wanted more than just doing hair. When the chance came, Caroline and I joined forces and took over the family business. In that time we’ve grown our business, moved locations and built on a solid idea. Our stylists are made up of family members and staff that feel like family. We are close-knit and you feel the love when you walk in through our doors.

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?
Caroline: As a business owner, there are always bumps in the road. Recently we decided to change locations for a much-needed upgrade. The build-out process was a grueling six months. Everything from layout to permits was challenging. What pulled it all together was supporting each other. I think the best advice I could offer is to surround yourself with supportive people who share your vision and are willing to walk the path with you through the ups and downs.

Monica: My advice would be to follow your dreams and go for it. There were so many times during the build out that I thought to myself “What have I gotten myself into?! I’ve made a huge mistake!” Fortunately, we didn’t give up and we just went for it thanks to our amazing team and loved ones that supported us. Without trials and tribulations there’s no growth and without growth, there’s no success.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Crystal Beauty Salon – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Our salon specializes in Hair, Skin, and Nails. A one-stop shop. Everything from color corrections, facials and fun nail art. We love to see our clients walk in and get transformed head to toe! What sets our establishment apart from others is that the minute you come in you also become family. We are here to make you comfortable and happy.

Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well positioned for?
We believe the one true opportunity that exists for all women is finding a connection. When we connect with other women we can empower and learn from each other. We’ve witnessed it on a daily basis being surrounded by females. The more we find commonalities the more we learn to support each other and rise above our challenges.

Contact Info:

• Address: 12534 SW 120 Street
  Miami, FL 33186
• Website: www.crystalbeautysalonmiami.com
• Phone: (305) 380-6908
• Email: crystalbeautysalonmiami@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystalbeautysalon
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crystalbeautysalonmiami
• Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/hairpaintingbymo
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/hairbycarito

Image Credit:
Jannette Oliva Photography

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