Meet April Black | Salon Owner/Hairstylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with April Black and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi April, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’m from a family of successful business owners. I knew at an early age I wanted to become a hairstylist and own a salon. Once I became licensed at 19, I worked hard to build a steady clientele. I was passionate about it. I knew the harder I worked, the faster I would get to that goal of owning my own salon. At 22 years old, I felt I had that solid clientele to be able to take that risk and go for it. I knew I had to be able to carry the entire business by myself, without the dependency of having other stylists right away. I created a business model where I didn’t need to depend on income from other stylists. Growing the business and adding stylists could happen at my own pace without a huge financial risk. So I did it. My Grandpa was a very successful man and he was tough. I’ll never forget him asking me “What makes you think you can do this, succeed, and not be closed up in a year?” I said “Grandpa, I worked at these other salons and I took a lot of mental notes. I know exactly what NOT to do.” He looked up from his desk and said “Good answer kid. Go get moving on it.”

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I absolutely love creating beautiful hair and making people feel their best. There’s nothing like the moment when a client looks in the mirror, sees the finished result, and smiles. That’s what makes this career so special.

But what I love just as much as the artistry is the connection I get to build with my clients. It’s important to me that every person in my chair feels comfortable, valued, and truly seen. I enjoy hearing about what’s going on in their lives, and I make a genuine effort to get to know each client on a deeper level.

I’ve always been a people person with a strong empathetic side, and it brings me so much joy to form those real relationships. I feel that part of my personality has helped me grow successfully in this business. My clients aren’t just clients. They’re like family to me. I care about them, and I want every single person who walks through my door to feel like they can be themselves.

My clients know that I’m not only their stylist. I’m also their friend and confidant. However, this can mean you carry a heavy emotional load at times. When someone you care about is going through a hard time, it can weigh on you because of how you become invested your clients happiness, beyond their hair. I don’t have the type of personality or heart to shut that off. I’m just not built that way. Having that trust and connection is such a big part of being successful in this industry, so I’m blessed that I connect so well with all different personalities. That connection also helps me better understand who they are as a person, so together we can create a look that truly reflects them.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When my best friend comes to town, we have a can’t-miss list of spots we always hit. Grace’s on Kirby is at the very top, and Pappas Bros. Steakhouse is another huge favorite. At some point, we always find ourselves at Hopdoddy in River Oaks, followed by a little shopping in the area….with a mandatory stop at The Container Store near the Galleria! (he’s obsessed with that place!)

We’re both big concert lovers, so no trip is complete without finding a show to see, and Houston has no shortage of amazing venues.

But the true gem in my neck of the woods, and a must visit when he’s here is Anthonie’s Market Grill. It’s always the perfect spot to wrap up his trip!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family has been such a huge part of my success, and they all deserve a special shoutout! From my Grandpa in heaven, to my Mom and Dad, my siblings, my husband, and my children. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

When I first opened my salon, my Grandpa, my parents, and my brothers were always right there beside me. They helped with everything — from getting the place open, fixing things, being just a phone call away, and even sending new clients my way. I was so blessed to have their support during those early years.

At the same time, my husband and I had just started dating. He didn’t know much about the salon industry, but he has supported me from day one. Being married to a hairstylist isn’t easy. It means late nights, last-minute trips to the salon, and lots of times when he has to handle dinner, homework, baths, and bedtime on his own. He always steps up without hesitation, and I appreciate him more than words can say.

My family means the world to me. Their love and support have been the foundation of everything I’ve built, and I’m forever grateful.

Website: https://www.salon1093.com

Instagram: april_salon1093