Today we’d like to introduce you to Solange Sarria.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My passion for hair began when I started going to the salon with my Mom as a kid. I witnessed how hairstylists could equally transform someone’s physical appearance and their self-esteem. I later started cutting hair for fun as a teen and never stopped. I was lucky enough to have people around me who cared about my happiness and success and would eventually connect me with the mentors I needed to be the best stylist I could be.
I saw the talent and professionalism in my mentors and wanted it for myself. After apprenticing for two years and building a local clientele, I quickly ventured off on my own, where a series of opportunities and risks brought me to where I am today.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I opened Sodada, as a sole owner, with big dreams that have more than humbled me over the past two years. I went through challenges with sewage issues, construction delays, a few employees and more responsibility then I was accustomed to. I shared my prior business with a partner, which allowed me the freedom to maintain my dreamy artist ways. Focusing on refining my craft, experimenting with new styles and expressing myself through social media were my fortes. As sole owner of Sodada, I’ve navigated the tough battle that is maintenance, management and finance. Thankfully, I enlisted the help of mentors along the way, who have helped me build a thicker skin while confidently communicating my needs and requests. Asking for my needs to be met did not come easy to me at first, and I still have a long way to grow.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Sodada Salon – what should we know?
I am known for creating an atmosphere that is inclusive of all-natural hair textures, giving clients a positive perspective on their ‘unruly’ and ‘difficult’ hair. Most of my clients have anywhere from kinky to curly to wavy hair, and often a combination of the three in one!
I illuminate hidden textures and patterns through a technique I call the Strand Cut Test. This technique allows me to create harmony between the combination of hair textures that exist on one head of hair. My cutting technique is unique in that it contributes to hair integrity and design simultaneously. I also choose to focus on my craft and environmental experiences over creating a dependency on a trendy product line or chemical processes.
I often heal my clients’ hair breakage and hair trauma, allowing them to embrace feeling themselves again! They come back every couple of months with healthier, fuller and longer hair then they have ever had, without any fuss. Because I cater to their natural texture, all they have to do is air-dry their hair and it falls perfectly in place. Of course, there are a few instructions to follow, but nothing like learning how to use professional hot tools. I color hair, as well, and am able to do so while maintaining the hair’s vibrancy and health.
I am proud to say that my work is transformative for people of any age, gender, sexual orientation and race. I also offer classes for professionals and mentorship for students! I love people and I love harmony. That is what Sodada is all about.
How do you define success?
To me, success is a combination of happiness, fun, passion, joy, gratitude, financial stability, community and love.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sodada.salon
- Phone: 7865783203
- Email: hey@sodada.salon
- Instagram: @sodadasalon
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/sodadasalon
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/sodadasalon
Image Credit:
Jeanne Canto
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