Today we’d like to introduce you to Liliana Lira-Rivera.
Hi Liliana, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started cosmetology school a little right after high school in 2012. I knew hair was one of my passions since I was young, I just never realized how much I would enjoy it until I got older. I decided to switch gears and prepare myself more and finished undergrad school and grad school while working in the hair business. I just did not know why it was so hard to let go despite how busy I was with school. After concluding my studies and started a job as a lecturer at UNC Greensboro I decided I was ready to start my own business. Thats when Lily & Co. started. in 2019, I found out this existing shop was for sale after a year or so of searching for a shop in a nice area. It just clicked the minute I walked into this salon.
There were of course so many changes I could envision, the fact of keeping this place looking good and welcoming for the stylist that was already there, and for the clients made me feel happy and full of energy. My husband and myself started planning the remodeling of the shop and completed most of it quite soon. I am delighted to provide a full-service salon to our clients, a nice clean area to come in and get their hair done, feel beautiful. It is more than a service we provide to our community, stylists help clients in so many ways. I’ve had many of them thanked me just for listening to their many stories and struggles, especially during these difficult times.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting your own business for the first time is a bumpy road for sure. Time was a challenge, another full-time job, and a family at home made this feel like an impossible task. Then trying to get a lease under your name when you have no business leasing records was another one. It all seems like it was impossible. Then after late nights planning and a lot of paperwork done, things just started happening. Lastly, make sure you have the right team to walk along with you in this beautiful and challenging journey.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in hair color. Most of my clientele is about 90% color services. I like to work with many different hair textures. I keep learning every day from classes, products, social media, and more. This is what really sets me apart. I do not stick to one particular brand. I mix and innovate new ideas, techniques and explore different brands, toss the bad ones, and keep the best. There is such a broad line of products out there and as a hair colorist, I must make sure my clients receive the best.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Definitely, after a month and a half closure, yes! I have learned that when you have the right people next to you, you will keep moving forward. I am thankful for my family and work family. They have helped in so many ways. I do not even think they realize the great support they have been to me.
Contact Info:
- Email: lily.co2019@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.lilycobeautylounge.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilycobeauty/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lilyandcobeautylounge/
Image Credits
Stefani M. D. Hutto
