We had the good fortune of connecting with Doreen Clark and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Doreen, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Self sufficient! I wanted to have flexibility in my life. Starting my business was the catalyst to get me there. I own a Boutique Style Salon. We cater to professional working women/ mothers who need a place to unwind & relax. I wanted to create a space for educating and empowering women.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve spent 10-15 years in the medical field and 15-20 years plus working in the Hair & Beauty Industry. It’s been a ride. What set me apart from most stylist is i see more than just hair, I connect with my clients on a whole different level. It’s about lifestyle changes and empowering not just the hair but the whole woman. My journey was not easy .. I worked & managed corporate salon for years ( Regis, JCPenneys , Walmart ( Smartstyles) I’ve gotten a good head start in business. But I knew there was more. After my divorce with 3 kids I knew I had to put in the work…. And i did and it was awful I hated it. I knew I to have my own salon or be independent. I stepped out on my own in 2003/2004 and it was quite an experience. I was happy but didn’t have a solid plan. It took me a while then 2008 the economy took a hit and I wasn’t sure if I would sustain! But i kept my hand to the plow, invested in training, classes & courses to make me better. Fast forward to 2017, Took a leap of faith moved to Texas just me & my daughter, no family or friends. I knew greater was out here for me. Just didn’t know how. I took a job full time as a LPN, and part time as a hairstylist at Walmart. I had a vision & a plan just had to work it through… within 8 months I built a clientele where I left both jobs and started working for myself! Grit, determination & Faith is all I had. Not much money but it came. I learned in those time that all I had was what was Inside me. Failure was not an option & I had to succeed my daughter was watching. I was a 16 year old teenage mom, that society said I & my children would be a statistic.. I’m heard that and told them WE WILL NOT! And I kept my word. Da’Hair Studio LLC & Daluxe Wigs & Extensions along with my product line have done very well. I am leaving a legacy for my family. And I hope to inspire and empower other women and young entrepreneurs that no matter how big the obstacle or behind the 8 ball you may start! Your dreams can and will come true if you don’t give up!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So I’ve only been in Houston 4 years … and I love that I’m learning the city as well!! I’m quite the social butterfly.. I enjoy all of night life.. So it’s Tuesday night we will head over to Amahle for tacos & drinks the vibe is nice . Wednesday we would head over to Phil & Dereks .. the live band and comedy shows are so good. Thursday night we would go to the Turkey Leg Hut! The atmosphere is fun. Friday depending on the weather.. Bar 5015. Omg I love the atmosphere and the eye candy… the drinks and food is good too. Saturday night is get dressed and be sexy.. we heading over to Five Central… yea the live band the DJ on the 3 rd level and the food & drinks will get you right. Closing the night out we will head over to Chapman & Kirby.. where all the city seems to come for brunch. Love the atmosphere
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To every single mom, working mom & woman entrepreneur trying to take their life, family & career to the next level! I shout you Out
Website: www.daluxehair.com
Instagram: @dahairstudio
Facebook: Dahair Studio By Doreen