Why was Honey built with such an emphasis on inclusivity?
Updated: 5 days ago
I normally don't speak in the first person when in the salon's space, but this feels like the time to switch over real quick.
So, when I (Jessica) opened Honey, I realized I was existing in a space made up of primarily white straight women. That's kind of the normal in the salon environment in upstate NY. So like, if that's the majority, why make inclusivity such a big thing? I'll tell you.
As a white blonde woman married to a white man, I recognized that it wasn't always apparent at first glance that I'm a welcoming and safe space to all women. I not only had clients of varying ethnicities and backgrounds, but I also had a lot of clients in similar situations to myself; While I may not be the minority, my family and friends do fit in different categories and I wanted to make sure potential clients knew they were in welcoming and accepting company.
So I set out to be out and open with my values as the owner at Honey, by being openly supportive of all humans; trans, gay, bipoc and women. Because yes, if we were doing rainbow hair and mullets or locs and braids all day we wouldn't need to say that part out loud, but I recognize that we do need to make it clear.
Then something even more magical happened, it just evolved and grew into something that shows that part without speaking it out loud 24/7.
I knew I wanted to employ many specialists so I could be as inclusive as possible not just firm in my beliefs. The first stylist I reached out to was so beyond talented with curls (Jennifer), and she was able to spread her knowledge to the rest of the team. I waited and interviewed and eventually a bright blonde specialist (Samantha) and brunette specialist (Chelsey) joined the team as well. The newest stylist at the time soaked up all she could from each of the other stylists and has become our top curly color artist (Lola). The team gained a few and lost a few along the way, then a stylist came to us with a background in blonde but a hunger for curl knowledge and has become our next busiest with curly cuts (Marianna) while connecting with clients like no other.
This natural evolution has made Honey known for not only the best blondes and balayage in the capital region (Albany Ny / Troy Ny) but we have also become the top destination for curly haircut and curly color services in the 518 as well.
We will continue to show what it means to be an inclusive salon while never wavering in our commitment to an excellent experience and professional communication between our beloved current clients as well as our potential clients and stylists. The crazy part is, that YOU choosing us is what makes us known for this. Our clients are the proof that we can serve all women, and do it well.
If you want to become part of the Honey client experience, here's a link <3
XOXO Honey
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