Celebrating a Significant Milestone: Rachel Marie Looks Back on Five Years of Business
In December 2018, the doors of Manes by Rachel Marie swung open, marking the beginning of my journey as an independent hairstylist. After 11 years with a large company, I took a leap of faith, driven by the support of my loyal clientele. The catalyst for this change was a quaint space in Old Town, shared with an old colleague, Tammy. It felt like home, prompting me to leave my long-time salon and embrace this new chapter.
The transition to being my own boss had its challenges, especially on the business side. Six months into this venture, Tammy decided to move on, leaving me with the daunting task of taking over the lease. Despite the initial panic, I signed the dotted line and, in the first year, rediscovered my passion for hair in this intimate space.
Celebrating my 30th birthday and the business’s one-year anniversary in December 2019 felt like a triumph. The top floor of Don Taco became the backdrop for a lively party, marking a period when life was, indeed, good. Then, March 2020 arrived, bringing with it the unforeseen challenges of a global pandemic. As salons closed, uncertainty gripped me, and I grappled with the reality of losing my livelihood.
With time, I embraced the unexpected break, finding solace in my relationship with Michael and taking a breather from a career that had defined me since the age of 16. When salons reopened in June 2020, I implemented stringent safety measures, ensuring my clients felt secure in my space. Masking for long hours became the norm, but the resilience prevailed, and I adapted to the new normal.
The plot thickened in early 2021 as I discovered I was pregnant. Working through the pregnancy was a blessing, thanks to the unwavering support of my clients. Welcoming my daughter, Delilah, in September 2021, marked a new chapter. A four-month maternity leave provided the perfect opportunity to renovate the salon, with the help of Kaki Ernst, a talented client who doubles as an interior designer.
Returning to work in February 2022, the experience of motherhood ignited a newfound determination. Balancing work, motherhood, and partnership presented challenges, but the support system around me made it worthwhile. The realization that it was no longer just about me intensified my commitment to providing the best for my daughter.
Through the highs and lows, my clients have been my constant. We’ve shared in each other’s joys and sorrows, celebrating promotions, marriages, and babies, while also navigating divorces and losses. Grateful for their unwavering support, I often reflect on their impact, even if years have passed since our last meeting.
Peering into the future, I’m filled with excitement as Manes by Rachel Marie approaches a significant milestone: five years in business. The challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering support of my clients have defined this half-decade adventure. As I reflect on the remarkable transformations—both in the salon’s physical space and my own personal and professional life—I am grateful for the resilience that has propelled me forward. Here’s to the upcoming milestone, a testament to the enduring spirit of Manes by Rachel Marie and the many more stories waiting to unfold in the years to come.
