Life and Work with Stephanie Darrow

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Darrow.

Stephanie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I went through a hair extension nightmare. First time getting extensions and within two weeks they were falling out. So, after doing some research, I found a extensions stylist who had me come down and she did my hair. We became great friends and I ended up doing a lot of her social media marketing and website. She started getting carpal tunnel from years of using pliers and clamping beads on the extensions. So, she asked if I wanted to learn. (Now, bear in mind, I was the least hair person out there, yes I wore extensions but I had never done anything like this in my life, I have worked with horses and on a dairy farm most of my years ). So, I said what do I have to lose and I started learning on the Monday by Saturday I was working on my first client. She was amazed at how quickly I picked up the methods. I started doing helping and we would split the clients so it wasn’t so painful on her hands.

Then after a year, she decided to retire and asked if I would like the business. Of course, I said yes. And took it over. I changed the name, etc. So, I could make it my own. My clients have been with me since day one and if it wasn’t them sticking by me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Their support is amazing and I truly appreciate each and every one of them.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a business is always tough. Luckily, I already had one foot in the door as had clients to do hair on. But, I had to really market my business to continue getting new clients. My goal is to launch my own hairline nationwide and I’m getting closer to it.

If anyone has a dream and wants to start a business work at it. Some points I was ready to give up because it was hard with competition in Phoenix. And, I would be only be getting one or two clients a week.

Stick with it, don’t get discouraged. If you work in an area that has a lot of competition just think they all started where you did. Do your research in your area of work. Check pricing of competitors, broaden your area. I’m mobile stylist I travel to clients homes and some come to my home. If you are able to be mobile depending on your business do it for a while. It doesn’t hurt. Then, you’re not jumping into a studio, etc. and paying big overheads. Then once you have a big clientele base find a studio to rent, etc.

BUT never give up on your dreams. Even if you think everything is against you. Work hard and you will enjoy the benefits.

Please tell us about Pure Hair Extensions.
I only specialize in hair extensions. Two methods, seamless tape, and microbead extensions. I also offer clip ins and halos for clients who don’t want a permanent hair extension. I work a lot with women who have hair thinning, hair loss problems. Just because you have thin hair doesn’t mean you can’t have hair extensions. I care about the integrity of my client’s hair. We work on hair plans so clients can enjoy wearing extensions and not getting their own hair damaged but healthy and growing.

I’m very reasonable with my pricing, I want hair extensions to be affordable for everyone, and the highest quality hair. This said this is why I do not mark my hair extensions up in price. My clients pay the same cost I get it from my hair supplier and the quality is outstanding. My Pure Hair line will last my clients up to a year or more work proper care.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
My apps are my family friends and clients. They are the ones that keep me going in life and help me strive to be the best I am. Hair extensions is my passion and I love seeing my clients reactions when they get extensions for the first time. A big smile and yes, I get happy tears from some also. That means more to me than anything.
Their support is what keeps me going in my work.

Pricing:

• Hair starts at $250 & goes up according to length
• Seamless Tape install is $130
• Micro Bead install $200

Contact Info:

• Website: www.purehairextensionz.com
• Phone: 602-448-0031
• Email: purehairextensions@outlook.com
• Instagram: Purehairextensionsaz
• Facebook: Pure Hair Extensionsaz

Image Credit:
Pure Hair Extensions

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