Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Marturano.
Hi Michelle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started The Organic Salon KC in the middle of pandemic times with the intention of building a multiple-location salon empire with a close friend and colleague of mine. Alas, that partnership fell apart (as they often do) and I was forced to trust my own girl-boss intuition and build my business from the ground up.
Luckily for me I have worked in every facet of the industry from employee, bridal and booth rental as well as owning a previous salon. I am grateful for the many lessons I’ve learned over that time and they really set me up for success here.
Reducing toxins in my own life and learning of the many long term effects of chemicals on the body was a true catalyst to wanting to provide better options to stylists and clients alike. Although I wish the rest of the industry would catch up, I couldn’t be prouder to be one of the few to provide these services in the Kansas City area.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
If I’ve learned anything as an 18-year-in entrepreneur, it’s that the road never truly feels smooth. Resilience and flexibility are key to success as a business owner in my opinion.
I would say the majority of my struggles have been tied to landlord issues, so with each one I learn to ask more questions and be more diligent in combing through the details. Additionally, learning and knowing your numbers goes along way. If you really want to grow you have to be very aware of what’s coming in and going out. I’m so grateful to have an amazing CPA to help me with this, but it was a struggle to find the right one.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Both myself and the salon as a whole has a strong focus on curly hair and natural hair textures. Inclusion was something really important to me when I opened the salon and I don’t feel like you can be truly inclusive without being able to welcome clients of all backgrounds which of course includes all hair textures. We encourage our clients to wear their hair in it’s natural state and love to show them how to get the most out of their hair with the least amount of work.
Additionally, we specialize in low-maintenance color allowing the client to go longer between appointments while still looking beautiful.
We do all this while of course using the cleanest ingredients possible.
What does success mean to you?
I think over the years my definition of success has certainly changed. At this time in my career and as a leader on my team I think success feels like providing a safe space for both my stylists and my clients. A place where they feel valued and worthy. If my stylists can look back on their time here and feel like they were able to grow and learn and be supported I think that’s a true success.
Pricing:
- Color starting at $75/hr
- Haircuts starting at $60/hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theorganicsalonkc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theorganicsalonkc
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-organic-salon-kansas-city
