Carolyn has been in the hair industry for 15 years. After apprenticing in Fort Wayne for two years with her former hairstylist, Carolyn took a leap of faith and opened her own space, growing her book of business and business skills. After both her daughters chose careers in the beauty industry, Carolyn decided to open a space where they could all work together.

Carolyn opened Bella Mia Salon and Spa in January 2011 after working in her home studio for 2 years. Something unique about Carolyn is that the majority of her business was spread and built by word of mouth. Each stylist has their own private room that they can decorate to match their individual style. The separate rooms offer an additional level of privacy to clients who need a quiet, safe space to relax and conversate. In addition to having separate spaces, Bella Mia Salon has a drama-free open-door policy with a safe space in the middle for clients to interact with each other and shop in her boutique if interested.

Carolyn describes herself as a product junky. She has worked with many great brands over the years, but it always felt like something was missing from each brand. So when her trusted sales rep, Casey, offered education for a new brand, she was both hesitant and excited to learn what they could bring to the table. From product knowledge to hands-on education, Carolyn fell in love with AlterEgo. AlterEgo matched her salon values, so she took the leap.

Both Carolyn and another one of her stylists, Whitney, expressed how transitioning to AlterEgo was a smooth process. They both spent time after the AlterEgo Nice to Meet Me class preparing their clients and talking about this exciting European brand that is luxurious and new to the States. After that, the product spoke for itself, and they dove right in getting rid of all other products, fully immersing themselves in this new brand.

Both Carolyn and her stylists expressed how great it is to have a sales rep who cares about them and is constantly up-to-date with the latest trends, sales, and education. They also appreciate having a brand that offers current education and real-life experiences.

Carolyn's advice for new stylists: Find a senior stylist to follow and watch, and take the time to learn and build. Building a clientele is not easy; it takes time to get there.