Like any journey worth pursuing, mine has not been without its challenges. In the early days of building Harlow, I faced resistance from within the industry. Many colleagues didn’t support my vision or didn’t live up to it, forcing me to rethink my approach.
Initially, Harlow operated as a hybrid model, with both independent contractors and commissioned stylists. However, after going through three product lines that promised growth support but never delivered, I lost all five of my contractors. While this was a tough setback, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It gave me the clarity to restructure the salon and led to an incredible partnership with Eufora, a brand that aligns with our mission of growth and empowerment.
Perhaps my greatest challenge came during the global pandemic, just after expanding the salon. Facing debt and shutdowns, I was forced out of my comfort zone, diving into social media, leadership development, and finding ways to keep our team connected and thriving. The experience made me a stronger leader and reaffirmed my commitment to making Harlow not just a salon, but a space where professionals can succeed and clients can feel their best.