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

Hi Iris, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Starting my business somewhere I did not have any clientele in was a risk itself. I learned very quickly that if I started to get too comfortable somewhere and it became a routine, it was time for something different. I noticed the building that was being built in the shopping center closest to my home was going to be a Salon Suites Place. That’s when I got the spontaneous idea of opening my own business focusing on what I enjoy doing the most, Hair & Makeup! In the beginning I was extremely fearful of failure but the people around me would also remind me of the positive outcome this could bring me. That’s when my entire perspective changed and decided to take the risk in going independent. Ever since that day, a lot of the decisions I take have been risky as it could affect my business in different ways. It’s one of the only ways I have been able to learn and grow.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What has set me apart from others is not just my skill, it’s also my kindness. I’ve always had people tell me that I am “a ray of sunshine” their words, not mine I promise! Anyone can get a good haircut anywhere, but it’s all about the entire experience and relationship I get to build with whoever sits in my chair. Every person has a different story, I am grateful for each person that has chosen me & continues to choose me as their stylist/artist. I was able to get where I am today with my drive for education and learning new things; I like to take classes to further my skillset. I enjoy being able to meet new people at these classes and events, I have realized that networking has been a huge way to meet people in the same field as me and potentially be able to work with them. It was not easy at first but when you start to actually want to do it, it becomes easier. A lesson I have learned along the way is to always know my worth and be aware. As someone who started really young in this field, there has been people that are doubtful of my skills and have even wanted to take advantage of “me being too young to know what I’m doing”. I thank God for giving me the awareness that I have today, some things are not worth fighting over. I would like the world to know that everything I do, I do it out of love and the kindness of my heart. I have always said this, God has a purpose for me, and I am allowing him to do what he needs to get me where he wants me to be. I will continue to do everything with love.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely hope they’d visit around Christmas time but if they don’t… First stop would be exploring Houston around Bellaire! there is so many hidden gems around that area and new things seem to open left and right. I am a fan of the Asian food spots down there, as a Houstonian myself, I have yet to explore even half! I would also take them around the museum district to walk around and see some of the exhibits. I also feel like we can’t possibly miss the Houston Zoo… It’s a cool place to visit, my favorite is the seal exhibit! Since Houston is mainly known for the food, we’d have to go to The Heights and see what new spot is up and trending! Last time I went, I went to Preslee’s and when I say everyone needs to go there at least once… I mean it! Lastly, you can’t visit Houston without taking a trip to Galveston or Kemah… even though the beach isn’t the “prettiest”, I know we are all grateful for the beach especially on 4th of July.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Honestly, there is way too many people to even list that have impacted my life in a positive way but here’s a few! First and foremost, God. My faith has been the root of all of my decisions because I trust in the Lord to lead me right where I’m supposed to be, as well to serve people the way he would want me to. He has been my light throughout this whole journey, he’s never failed me yet! Secondly. my family, specifically my parents. I have been extremely blessed to have the amazing parents that I do, without them I would not have been able to take the leap of business ownership at 22. My dad is a business owner himself and I have been able to see first-hand how hard it is to own a business; this is definitely not for everyone. Their love and support are what fuels me to do better even though there are days where I don’t even want to get out of bed. ¡Los quiero muchísimo! My entire family always come and support me every time I have an idea, I am so thankful for them! All of my friends have been so encouraging even when they’ve had front row seats to my vent sesh about how much I’ve wanted to give up. Lastly, one of my mentors that has also made a huge impact in my life, Kellie Nedd. I am a huge believer in, “God makes us cross paths for a reason”, she taught me so much for me being a newly licensed cosmetologist. It wasn’t all about hair, it was way more than that. Sometimes I like to think that I learned more about navigating life than hair, but I am totally okay with that! I turned out to be a great stylist at the end of the day!

Website: https://linktr.ee/iristrejobeauty

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irisbeautyartistry?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iris-trejo-a53797162

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089856471990&mibextid=2JQ9oc

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/iris-beauty-artistry-new-caney?uid=0M4uMprCjbaoyXxtSQXhXA&utm_source=ishare

Image Credits
Mullins Photography
Sweet Bella Photography
Janes Dream Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.