Feature: Demetria Francis (Headlines by DeFranco)

Beingg a small business owner is one of the most difficult jobs that a person can choose. Enterpreneurs exchange one supervisor for many supervisors (i.e. your clients) and take on the responsibility of not just one position but whatever position/hat/job is necessary to make their business a success.

Recently, we touched bases with local entrepreneur Demetria “Meechie” Francis of two location (4034 Mayfield Rd & 5160 Wilson Mills Rd) local salon Headlines by DeFranco to talk about the business of doing business in Cleveland.

How did you get your start?
D: I got my start as a salon owner, at the age of 22 after working in salons that didn’t fit my personality or growth as a stylist.

What do you believe are the keys to being a successful salon owner?
D: Location and advertising are key to a successful salon, but choosing a staff that supports and respects your business is equally as important.

What are some challenges you’ve faced in getting to current place?
D: Basically just staying focused and not letting negativity destroy my business. Rumors, gossip, and drama are inevitable in such a competitve business. However, you soon learn that if nobody is talking about you, than you’re nobody worth talking about.

What’s the good and bad of working in Cleveland’s hair industry?
D: The good thing is that there are very talented stylists here that do really great work. The bad thing is that they have allowed clients not to pay what the service is really worth. Stylists in Cleveland are being paid less than what stylists in other areas charge.

What words of advice do you have for upcoming stylists and salon owners? What’s the average income range?
D: Don’t be afraid to take chances. As long as you have faith in God, he’ll work everything out. A stylists income can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars a week to a few thousand. It all depends on the size of your clientele and cost of your services.

What are the top three local salons?
D: There are so many successful salons, that it’s hard to pick just three, but needless to say Headlines by De’Franco is one of them!

What’s next for Headlines?
D: I’m excited about our new barbershop coming soon, Barbers by DeFranco on 4034 Mayfield Rd. in South Euclid. Barbers Wanted! Shameless plug!

Thanks!