Today we’d like to introduce you to Misty Krant.
Hi Misty, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been in the beauty industry 20 plus years. I started as an independent contractor because at that time in my life and in the industry, it allowed me more time with my young daughter as a single parent. It was during this time that I realized the flaws of the beauty industry. One major one being work/life balance , especially in the beginning stages of one’s career path.
As creatives, we were not taken seriously as business professionals. At the time, our industry was looked at by many, as a “hobby” or “just for fun” we were told we didn’t need to focus on the business /financial aspect, because we were doing what we loved.
This is what started me on my path to creating an environment where beauty professionals could be respected, achieve financial freedom, and truly empower people to be whomever they want to be.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Initially, my biggest struggle was other professionals in the industry not supporting my vision, or supporting it but not practicing it.
Once I changed who I was surrounded by, I was presented so many incredible opportunities.
With these new opportunities came new challenges. I originally opened Harlow under a different name and hybrid business model. Which means I had independent contractors and commissioned stylists. In the first two years I went through three products lines who all promised business support and development but never delivered on those promises. This contributed to losing all five of my independent contractors, forcing me to restructure to a commissioned based business model. At the time, I didn’t realize this would be a blessing. It also lead to our current partnership with our retail brand, Eufora. There isn’t another company in this industry who genuinely cares about this community of beauty professionals the way Eufora does.
Ultimately my biggest challenge to date is going into business debt for the first time after expanding the salon and being shut down days later due the global pandemic. The shut down forced me outside my comfort zone with social media, leadership development and fighting to stay relevant so that my team could thrive once we reopened.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Harlow is a creative, artistic, professional environment. We are working to create an unforgettable guest experience that empowers clients to look and feel their absolute best, while also cultivating a powerful, compassionate and dedicated culture of beauty professionals. We do more than just hair. We create a safe space where you feel welcomed to be who you want to be .
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Most of my fond memories involve my family , My Mom mostly ( She is my hero & the strongest woman I know). I always sat and watched my Mom meticulously put her makeup on everyday … she was great at it ! I really think back now and realize how ingrained the beauty industry was in me at such an early age, and the desire to help people feel better about themselves . I truly loved styling my dolls, friends , and EVEN both of my brother’s hair !
Contact Info:
- Website: www.harlowaustin.com
- Instagram: @Harlowsalonaustin
- Facebook: HarlowSalonAustin
Image Credits
Katie Starr Photography
