Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Ponce.
Hi Daniel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in Houston, Texas, but my thirst for adventure led me to New York City in my early 20s. It was there that I discovered my passion for hairdressing and fashion. After attending the Aveda Institute, I had the privilege of honing my skills under industry luminaries like Hauns Korpela, whose apprenticeship under AVEDA’s founder, Horst Rechelbacher, instilled in me a deep appreciation for the artistry and tradition of the trade. My journey continued as I joined forces with Melyssa Graham, visionary leader in the salon industry, and witnessed firsthand her transformation of Thomas Taft salon into a thriving enterprise. Under her mentorship and guidance, I not only refined my technical skills but also learned invaluable insights into the business and marketing aspects of the industry. The combination of my experiences in New York, particularly my time at Thomas Taft Salon, a Bumble and Bumble exclusive salon, allowed me to immerse myself at the Bumble and Bumble University, laying the foundation for my entrepreneurial aspirations. With a steadfast determination to uphold the highest standard of excellence, I set my sights on creating a salon that has the essence of New York City. New York also blessed me with another significant gift – the love of my life, my husband Nick! Together we embarked on a quest for a new beginning, drawn by the allure of Austin’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Though I continued to thrive in the Austin salon scene, the dream of creating my own haven for like-minded hairstylists lingered in my mind. After eight years, I finally seized the opportunity to turn my vision into reality. Hair Society Salon and Color Bar was born on November 28, a serendipitous date that also marks my birthday. What started as a modest venture with just three employees has rapidly grown into a close-knit team of seven, fueled by shared passion for innovation and creativity. The journey from Houston to New York and finally to Austin has been nothing short of extraordinary, punctuated by moments of growth, inspiration, and unwavering dedication. As I reflect on this remarkable journey, I am filled with gratitude for the mentors, colleagues, and clients who have accompanied me every step of the way, shaping me into the stylist and entrepreneur I am today.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have a network of friends and family who have been unwaveringly supportive and loving throughout my journey. Their encouragement and belief in my abilities have been a constant source of strength and inspiration.
Despite the immense support I received, the journey to becoming a business owner was not without its obstacles. One of the most formidable challenges I faced was overcoming my own self-doubt and fear of failure. Transitioning from a skilled stylist to an entrepreneur required a mental shift that was both exhilarating and daunting. While I was confident in my craft and passionate about creating a salon that reflected my vision the prospect of shouldering the responsibilities of ownership was intimidating. There were and still are moments when self-doubt creeps in, questioning whether I have the resilience and resourcefulness to navigate the complexities of ownership.
The fear of the unknown loomed large, accompanied by a lot of what-ifs and uncertainties. However, I quickly realized that allowing fear to dictate my decisions would only hinder my progress and stifle my growth. Embracing the discomfort of uncertainty became a pivotal moment in my journey. Surrounding myself with supportive network of mentors, colleagues, and loved ones played a crucial role in bolstering my confidence and providing invaluable guidance. Their unwavering belief in my abilities and their willingness to offer advice and encouragement propelled me forward during moments of doubt. Today, as I reflect on the challenges I’ve overcome, I’m grateful for the resilience and tenacity that I propelled me towards realizing my dreams.
We’ve been impressed with Hair Society Salon and Color Bar, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Hair Society Salon and Color Bar, we offer a premium experience focused on enhancing your natural beauty and promoting the health of your hair. Our goal is to leave you feeling confident and empowered, embracing the best version of yourself
Our Mission – Hair Society Salon and Color Bars mission is focused on three things – the team, our clients, and the community. A team-driven culture based on trust is at the heart of a company. Our mission is to create a space for like-minded stylists with goals and dreams, who love what they do, and our valued for the unique talent and passion they each bring. To create an environment that inspires creativity and self-confidence in everyone and to build long-lasting relationships with our clients and the community.
Blonding services – though we offer a multitude of luxury services. We are known for our blonding services, offering completely personalized blonding services. A service design to bring your blonde hair goals to life. Using a variety of lightning techniques that will perfectly align with your vision, will give you that lavish yet natural looking and healthy blonde hair.
Dimensional color – we create a multi-tonal, multi-dimensional hair color effect that gives your hair depth, movement, and shine. Incorporating a multitude of complementing tones throughout your hair that will instantly negate that flat, one shade hair color most of us dread…
Hair Extensions – experience a hair transformation like no other! We will help you with any thinning hair or age-related hair concerns, add a link to a style you are trying to go out or add volumizing famous! Complete the service with a bouncy blow out they will have you feeling confident in turning heads wherever you go.
What’s a sets apart from others – at our salon, every client is unique, and so is their hair journey! As part of our commitment to personalized care, we sit down with each and every client whether you are a new face or familiar one. Our prescription-like questionnaire helps us understand your needs, ensuring a tailored experience just for you.
I am most proud of our brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction. At Hair Society Salon and Color Bar, ensuring our clients leave feeling delighted and empowered is at the forefront of everything we do. We prioritize creating a welcoming and comfortable environment where our clients feel valued and understood. From the moment they step through our doors, they are greeted with warmth and genuine care. We take the time to listen to their needs, preferences, and concerns, ensuring that every service is tailored to their individual desires. Our team of talented stylist and colorist are dedicated to delivering exceptional results, exceeding expectations with their expertise and attention to detail. Additionally, we place a strong emphasis on ongoing communication and feedback, actively seeking input from our clients to continuously improve and we find our services.
At Hair Society Salon and Color Bar, we want readers to know that we are more than just a salon – we’re a destination for luxury and relaxation right here in Round Rock, Texas. Inspired by the vibrant energy and sophistication of New York City, we’ve infused our salon with a unique atmosphere that exudes both style and comfort.
From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be transported into a space where every detail has been carefully curated to enhance your experience. Our aim is to provide a sanctuary where our clients can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in a moment of tranquility. The ambience at our salon is carefully crafted to evoke a sense of calm and relaxation. The music sets the tone with its laid-back vibes, creating a smooth backdrop as you unwind and pamper yourself. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that every visit as a truly luxurious experience, from the personalized service to the impeccable attention to detail. Whether you’re here for a haircut, color treatment, or just a bit of self-care, we want you to feel like royalty from start to finish. At Hair Society Salon and Color Bar, it’s not just about services we offer – it’s about creating moments of pure bliss and indulgence that leave you feeling rejuvenated and empowered.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories revolve around the joy of growing up surrounded by a big, close-knit family and the endless adventures we shared. With plenty of cousins around, every gathering was a bustling celebration filled with laughter, games, and stories. From impromptu family get-togethers, there was never a dull moment when we all came together. Whether it was a holiday celebration, or a simple weekend get-together, the sense of camaraderie and connection was palpable. While there isn’t one specific memory that stands out above the rest collective experience of being surrounded by loved ones and creating cherished moments together that I hold most dear. Those times spent with my family laid the foundation for a lifetime of cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the bonds that tie us together.
Pricing:
- Haircut $50+ depending on level of stylist chosen
- Highlights $130 depending on level of stylist chosen
- Balayage $170+ depending on level of stylist chosen
- Keratin Smoothing Treatments – $150+ depending on level of stylist chosen
- Hair Extensions – hourly rate based on stylist chosen
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hairsocietysalonandcolorbar.com/
- Instagram: instagram.com/hairsociety_salonandcolorbar
- Facebook: facebook.com/hairsocietysalonandcolorbar
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/hair-society-salon-and-color-bar-round-rock?override_cta=Request+pricing+%26+availability
Image Credits
Alicia Leigh Photography
