This story is about…
Female entrepreneur: ReeRee Rockette
Company: Rockalily Cuts
Industry: Hairdressing & Blogging
Location: UK
She started her business because: “I enjoyed my job, but couldn’t see myself doing it in ten years time”
Age range: 20s
What motivated you to start your business?
I came from a career in education and had always thought that was what I would excel at. I just didn’t really consider that I could be good at anything else. I started working part time in the evenings at a burlesque and cabaret club, as well as blogging about my new found love for retro styling, and I found myself getting itchy feet for something new.
I enjoyed my job, but couldn’t see myself doing it in ten years time, so I had to come up with a new direction! I had to reassess my skill-set, and really question what sort of career would be my dream job. I had never really sat down and thought about it before!
Tell us about your business…
I own Rockalily Cuts, a hair salon in East London. We specialise in making people feel awesome. It is a His and Hers salon, for rockabilly, retro, and modern cutting, styling and colouring.
I also run Wonderful Women: Minding Our Own Business, which is a support group for ladies starting and running their own businesses. We have bi-monthly meetings.
My blog is still a large part of my business, and I blog about the clothes I wear, running a business, feminism, self esteem and anything else interesting in my life at the time!
What is a day in the life of you like?
I used to run an online business last year, but since opening the salon my average day has changed somewhat! I wake up, check my emails and social media sites, and then get dressed. Once I’m ready, I get my dog ready (he is a salon dog) and we walk to the train station.
Once we arrive at the salon, I double check everything is ready to go, and what appointments we have. Then I relax with a coffee, and the dog has his breakfast.
I work at the front desk of the salon, so I get to chat to all of the clients, and watch their hair transformations.
We finish in the evening, and we’ll sometimes pop for an after work drink before heading home.
What have been your biggest challenges so far with running your business?
A rather dull answer, but paying the bills is the biggest challenge when starting a business!
How did you overcome these challenges?
I keep a tight reign on the budget, and always shop around. I have also been strict with my own personal budget!
What have you found to be the most effective way to get new clients?
For me and my business, social media is how many of my clients find me. My blog and twitter have literally enabled me to create a successful business. Now that I have the salon, many new clients walk past and pop in, so that is a positive reflection on the branding and decor of the space.
What advice would you give to other business owners?
To try and create a business that reflects an authentic passion or belief. It makes it much easier to carry on through any tough times if you really believe in what you have to offer.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Each challenge is an opportunity to get ahead. Your competition will give up, but if you can keep going until the finishing line, you’ll eventually be the last one standing!
What’s your favourite quote?
Fortune favours the brave
Who inspires you?
Howard Schultz , Richard Branson, and anyone who has made a lot of money without starting out with any!
Do you have a business philosophy?
I always trust my gut, it hasn’t let me down so far!
Get in touch…
Website: http://www.rockalily.com
Twitter: @reereerockette
Facebook Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/rockalilylondon
