My Story

Hi!

I'm Kim, the founder of Solo Stylist Support, bringing almost 30 years of self-employed experience in the beauty industry to help others survive the business burdens to actually enjoy being behind the chair! I understand exactly where you might be and feel passionately about providing personalized support in our industry now more than ever.

At age 19, I graduated from Continental School of Beauty and jumped right into assisting for a short period of time. Still lacking real experience, I then went to a big chain salon, where I became the manager within a year. That boost of confidence gave me the push to go out on my own. I found my first chair rental location but quickly realized I had jumped in way too soon, failed, and ended up working for another chain as an employee again. It was there that I built a substantial clientele, allowing me to try again and pursue my goal of being my own boss.

So, my self-employed journey began, and 17 years of renting a chair led me to open my current 11-person chair rental salon in Rochester, New York successfully now for almost a decade. That in itself has taught me so much more about the industry. Especially how other independent renters think, what they struggle with and what helps them succeed.
I wouldn’t glorify it coming with ease. I juggled personal losses and financial challenges while doing it as a single mother.  For me personally I can say my faithfulness in Christ and surrounding myself with an incredible support system is what led me to my success as a business owner. 

​Outside of my own salon, I have helped many local renters find their forever work home, assisted other salon owners in opening their very own chair/suite rental salons, and have unofficially been doing this type of support work in our area for years.

 
I had mentors and experienced guidance all through my career. I value the importance of support and community. It’s in my soul to help those around me and see others succeed. I've held back tears in the back room and put on an imposter syndrome behind my chair (I know many of you can relate to that exhaustion). Some days I held on through prayer, and other days I pushed forward with a solid plan.

I've learned what works and what hurts.... and everything in between! It's been a journey that keeps evolving, but I'm happy to share what has effectively worked for me with you!  If you are looking for someone in your corner, I'd be happy to guide with any and all secrets of the solo trade and every bit of knowledge that have helped me succeed, so you can too.