When I ventured into starting Naturally Rowe® everyone asked if I had plans on expanding with stylists. My immediate response was no! While I enjoyed the full salon setting at Lucky You, I was ready to be in my own space and have the one on one experience with my clients. However as life would have it, plans change.
I noticed I could no longer ignore the constant calls, dms and messages of new clients looking for what I had to offer. Unfortunately I'm one person and I could not add more to my plate. Fortunately God had an answer.
I decided to interview for one stylist. I put flyers and the word out, yet I wasn't receiving the response I desired. I went to one of my mentors, the amazing Tika Mercer, and mentioned my difficulty finding the right fit. Tika informed me she recently interviewed a stylist that had great potential, but her availability would be hard for their schedule. She asked if I would be open to interview her and of course trusting my mentor I said yes.
From the first moments I met Sasha I saw how warm spirited she was. I felt at ease with her right away. I also felt excitement. She embodied so many of the qualities I was looking for: open to being coached, excited to learn, willing to be a part of a business in its infancy, ready to begin a new journey. When I saw Sasha, I saw myself at the beginning of my career in Natural Hair. I was ready to pour into her all the things Tika and Connie poured into me. I knew in my heart and spirit she was fertile ground.
For the past 3.5 years I have had the honor and privilege of watching Sasha bloom and flourish. With her by my side we have ventured into vending at natural hair expos, teaching classess, mentoring new and seasoned stylists, building the Naturally Rowe® name from the bottom up. Any idea I had she was right with me only asking how she could support. For 3.5 years we have poured into each other's cup building a beautiful friendship along the way.
Sasha will now take flight to another state to begin a new, exciting and beautiful chapter in her life. I know she will do incredible things and take her light to others who don't know yet that they will soon meet one of the most amazing people inside and out.
What I will miss the most on Tuesday when I walk into the business is seeing her smiling face and arms stretched out for a hug. Many days those smiles and hugs were my life line and a reminder of why I love what I do and what Naturally Rowe® has become. Sending all my prayers, love and well wishes to the woman who took a chance on me and with me. Sasha not only made me a success in business, she made me a better person. I'm forever grateful for everything you gave to Naturally Rowe® and to me.
Comments