KEYANI WASHINGTON CHAT Skin & Hair Co

Keyani Washington: From Cosmetologist to Skincare Entrepreneur with CHAT Skin & Hair Co

Keyani Washington, a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is the founder of CHAT Skin & Hair Co. With a passion for beauty and wellness that spans decades, Keyani has transformed her love for cosmetology into a thriving business dedicated to advancing skin and hair wellness Her journey from a part-time cosmetologist to a full-time entrepreneur is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and dedication to helping others.

Discovering Her Entrepreneurial Spirit

Keyani’s journey into entrepreneurship began long before she even knew what the term meant. She became a Licensed Cosmetologist in 2005, balancing her work in the salon with a part-time job as a childcare provider. However, it wasn’t until 2011 that she took the leap to focus solely on her work in the salon. “I didn’t know I was an entrepreneur; I had never heard the word before,” Keyani recalls It wasn’t until 2018, after completing an Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans, that she fully realized she was a natural-born entrepreneur.

The Birth of CHAT Skin & Hair Co

The inspiration for CHAT Skin & Hair Co was born out of necessity and a desire to continue working in the cosmetology industry despite the physical demands of the job “The business I have now was birthed out of a need to do something different besides standing on my feet all day, which was aggravating an injury I sustained in the military,”

Keyani explains When one of her favorite hair products was discontinued, she took matters into her own hands and formulated her own. This pivotal moment set off a domino effect that ultimately led to the creation of her business.

Influences and Mentorship

Keyani’s love for the beauty industry was instilled in her from a young age by her mother and two childhood hairstylists. Her mother taught her how to braid when she was just 12 years old, and Keyani spent countless hours observing her hairstylists, practicing what she saw them do. These early influences set her on a path that would eventually lead to the creation of CHAT Skin & Hair Co

The Mission Behind CHAT Skin & Hair Co

CHAT Skin & Hair Co was founded with a clear mission: to address the critical need for high-quality resources in the skin and hair wellness industry “Consumers are increasingly facing hair health issues due to a lack of access to high-quality resources,” Keyani notes. Her company is dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions, expert guidance, and top-notch products to help individuals achieve and maintain healthy hair and skin.

Overcoming Challenges on the Entrepreneurial Path

Like many entrepreneurs, Keyani faced significant challenges when starting her business. “I really didn’t know what to do, where to start, what I needed, or who I needed,” she admits The key to overcoming these obstacles was utilizing available resources, such as Veteran Entrepreneur organizations, the SBA, and The Small Business Development Center. Through research and a deep dive into the cosmetology industry, Keyani gained a better understanding of the education, products, and services that would form the foundation of her business.

A Journey Marked by Milestones

For Keyani, one of her biggest successes has been learning to navigate obstacles without being defeated. “Entrepreneurship is not a cakewalk. Most of the time, you’re silently walking it alone,” she says Despite the challenges, she has persevered, steadily growing her business and serving others. This resilience is a testament to her commitment to her craft and her unwavering belief in the purpose of her work

Redefining Success

Keyani’s definition of success has evolved over time. While she once focused on business revenue, she now measures success by completing her weekly or monthly tasks, making the right connections, and continuing to move forward despite challenges. “Success is continuing to keep going because there’s a purpose for my life, my business, and that purpose is meant to help someone else’s life or business,” she explains.

Lessons Learned and Staying Resilient

One of the most important lessons Keyani has learned on her entrepreneurial journey is the difference between working in her business and working on her business

Until she can afford to hire additional help, she is responsible for everything from providing services to answering emails and phone calls. “It’s a lot, but one day it will all change,” she says with optimism

In the face of setbacks or failures, Keyani stays motivated by reminding herself of her purpose. “I cry my tears, vent, pray for strength, and depend on God to keep me going,” she shares Her early slogans, “Put on Your Freaking Shoes and Walk” and “Do it Anyway,” continue to inspire her to push through challenges, knowing that every problem has a solution and that setbacks are just part of the process

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those looking to start a business in the cosmetology industry, Keyani offers sage advice: “Don’t get into the industry for the money because some days you won’t make any. If you don’t want to continue to learn, this probably isn’t the right industry for you ” She emphasizes the importance of being teachable, serving others, and staying focused to grow and succeed.

Reflections and the Legacy of CHAT Skin & Hair Co

Looking back, Keyani acknowledges that she might have invested differently in certain areas of her business. However, she views these experiences as valuable learning opportunities that have shaped her entrepreneurial journey.

Keyani’s vision for the future of CHAT Skin & Hair Co is ambitious and inspiring. She hopes to build her company into the leading authority in skin and hair wellness, empowering individuals to achieve and maintain healthy hair through a holistic approach that combines innovation, education, and personalized care.

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