Jan 16

Jan 16 Fashion Gxd Magazine - Nicole Oliver | Print Issue Now live

Written By: Samantha Cee

Nicole Oliver, the CEO of Celebrity Hair for Less, has been making waves in the world of fashion and beauty. Her innovative approach to hair care has earned her a spot on the cover of Fashion GXD magazine, and for good reason. With her extensive knowledge of the industry and commitment to making high-quality hair products accessible to everyone, Oliver has become a leading figure in the world of celebrity hair care. In this article, we'll take a closer look at her journey to the top, the secrets to her success, and what sets her apart from the competition. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by one of the most influential women in the beauty industry today.

What inspired you to start Celebrity Hair for Less?

I was enrolled in a Business Administration Master's program at the University of Lafayette in the fall of 2018. The catalyst for my entrepreneurial venture was an assignment that focused on the journey of two individuals who started a sandwich company due to their love for sandwiches. As I delved into their entrepreneurial experience, I realized the importance of creating a business based on my own knowledge and expertise. Given my history of wearing hair extensions and wigs since the mid-90s, it felt like a natural choice to establish a business in that domain. This personal connection to the industry fueled my passion and understanding, providing a solid foundation for the launch of Celebrity Hair for Less.

Can you tell us about the process of launching your retail hair company?

I obtained the necessary license in October 2018, but our official launch wasn't until November 2019. The initial challenge was identifying reputable hair manufacturers that offered both quality and affordability with quick delivery. This phase proved time-consuming due to the prevalence of companies selling subpar hair products. Prioritizing top-notch quality became a priority, extending the timeline beyond my initial expectations. Once we secured reliable manufacturers, our focus shifted to developing the website. I enlisted professional models for a photoshoot to showcase our products, and leveraging my bachelor’s degree in information technology, I played a key role in designing a high-quality website for our retail venture.

How did you come up with the idea for a salon in addition to your retail hair products?

From the outset of this venture, establishing a salon was a central idea. My passion for comprehensive hair care has always driven me, recognizing that stylists play a crucial role in perfecting the look of extensions and wigs. The prospect of seamlessly integrating premium hair products into a luxurious salon setting excites me. Equally thrilling is the opportunity to provide a space where talented stylists can unleash their creativity and craft their magic.

What sets Celebrity Hair for Less apart from other hair companies?

Our unique selling point lies in our exclusive line of custom wigs, a collection not available anywhere else. Notably, we pioneered the Afro Hairline Wigs, showcasing custom wigs with hairlines designed to replicate those seen in African American women. Achieving a natural look is effortless, as no leave-out is required with these innovative wigs.

How do you choose which products to offer in your retail line?

Our product selection comprises individually crafted wigs and extensions that undergo thorough testing. I exclusively offer items that meet my personal standards – if it's not something I would wear myself, it doesn't make it to the lineup.

What is your favorite product in your retail line and why?

I hold a special preference for our Afro Hairline Wigs. Their incredibly realistic appearance is enhanced using premium synthetic fiber, allowing us to maintain affordability without compromising quality. Our synthetic hair closely mimics the texture of human hair, offering a soft feel and an extended lifespan compared to many other synthetic wigs available. With a variety of colors and lengths to choose from, each custom-made wig is unique, ensuring that no two wigs look exactly alike.

Can you share any challenges you faced in starting your business and how you overcame them?

Commencing during the early stages of the Covid pandemic posed a significant challenge as sales were initially slow. Despite feeling disheartened, the thought of giving up never crossed my mind. I came to understand that startups seldom achieve extraordinary sales numbers right from the start, unless you have the celebrity status of figures like Beyonce or Kim Kardashian. Building a web presence and attracting customers takes time. In the initial stages, people weren't particularly focused on hair-related products. To adapt to the prevailing demand, we expanded our offerings to include masks. Success in business is a gradual process, and while it doesn't happen overnight, persistence ultimately yields rewarding results.

How do you stay up to date on the latest hair trends and incorporate them into your business?

Utilizing social media as a valuable tool, I stay abreast of the newest trends. Social platforms serve as sources of inspiration and knowledge for me.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs in the hair industry?

The paramount advice I can share with aspiring entrepreneurs is to identify and embrace your niche. Creating a business that distinguishes itself amidst the multitude of hair companies is crucial. While some may argue that the industry is saturated, developing an authentic and unique product will set you apart from the competition.

How do you measure success in your business?

Success, for me, is reflected in the frequency of repeat customers. The consistent return of customers is a strong indicator that we're on the right track. This is particularly meaningful when customers, especially those located outside the US, continue to place orders. Considering the expense of international shipping, their ongoing satisfaction with our products is a testament to our success.

Can you share a particularly memorable experience from your journey as an entrepreneur?

Not too long ago, while in Texas, I encountered a customer wearing one of my wigs. I approached her and inquired about her experience with the wig. She seemed surprised and asked, "How did you know I was wearing a wig?" I had to reveal that it was one of our creations, exclusively designed and not available elsewhere. Witnessing her reaction upon realizing she was speaking to the designer was immensely rewarding. While one might expect my first celebrity event to be the pinnacle of my entrepreneurial journey, the sheer delight in her reaction made all the hard work and effort truly worthwhile.

How do you prioritize and manage your daily tasks and responsibilities?

Balancing my schedule has become quite challenging lately as my days are consistently packed. I prioritize by addressing the most crucial tasks first and then fitting in the remaining responsibilities throughout the day. Admittedly, my days tend to be long, and sometimes I find myself catching up on everything late at night. However, recognizing this as an inherent part of the entrepreneurial journey, I've learned to adapt to the demands of a busy schedule.

What marketing strategies have been most effective for your business?

Interestingly, I opted not to allocate a significant budget to marketing. Recognizing the substantial advertising resources on platforms like Etsy and Ebay, I strategically leveraged their systems to promote my products. Incorporating my offerings into these sites turned out to be the most impactful decision for the growth of my company.

How do you handle competition in the hair industry?

Acknowledging the inevitability of competition, my approach involves retaining customers through the delivery of top-notch products and services. While alternatives may offer similar products, our unparalleled commitment to quality sets us apart. Exceptional customer service combined with high-quality products not only keeps existing customers but also attracts new ones.

What is the most important lesson you've learned as a business owner?

The most crucial lesson I've gained as a business owner is the importance of embracing adaptability. While we may attempt to meticulously plan our journey, unexpected challenges can arise. If a certain aspect of your business isn't yielding the desired results, don't hesitate to initiate change.

How do you maintain a work-life balance?

Juggling work and personal life poses a significant challenge as an entrepreneur. With lengthy workdays and the constant demands of a younger child, finding equilibrium is tough. While work holds importance, my family always comes first. Surprisingly, I've managed to strike a balance between the two, even if it means my days are extended. Nevertheless, I wouldn't want it any other way.

Can you discuss any future plans for expansion or growth for your business?

We are currently in the process of establishing our first salon in Tucson, Arizona. This luxury salon boasts 14 stations and is strategically located in Tucson Mall, right outside the city's sole Macy's store. I am thrilled about providing stylists with a dedicated space to unleash their creativity.

How do you stay motivated and inspired in your business?

My customers are my constant source of motivation. Every time someone shares a photo or recounts their experience with my products, it inspires me to keep pushing forward. They are the driving force behind the creation of this company. My goal was to offer people high-quality hair at reasonable prices, and witnessing the positive impact on customers makes me proud to be achieving that objective.

What is your vision for the future of Celebrity Hair for Less?

I aspire for Celebrity Hair for Less to be a well-known brand both nationally and globally. Ideally, our products would be seamlessly integrated into various retail outlets. The potential impact of our Afro Hairline Wig line could be significant with the right exposure, benefiting a broader audience.

Can you talk about any philanthropic efforts your business is involved in?

In 2021, I battled lymphoma and, thankfully, I am now in remission. The treatments took a toll on my hair, providing me with a fresh perspective on the challenges of hair loss. Consequently, I collaborated with the Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans to provide affordable wigs to individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

How do you approach customer service and satisfaction in your business?

Ensuring customer service and satisfaction are integral to our business philosophy. Having been a customer who felt neglected by business owners in the past, I understand the significance of addressing customer concerns. While it may be impossible to please everyone every time, I am committed to going the extra mile to provide a positive experience with my company.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about being an entrepreneur in the hair industry?

The most significant misconception about entrepreneurship in the hair industry is the assumption that all businesses provide generic, mass-produced products. In contrast, most of my offerings are uniquely crafted, making exact replication impossible. We meticulously capture our own website images, ensuring an authentic representation of the hair you'll receive.

Finally, what is the one piece of advice you would give to someone starting their own business in the hair industry?

For those embarking on their own journey in the hair industry, my key advice is simple: don't give up. Challenges may arise, and financial rewards might not come immediately, but that's part of the process. Stay dedicated to your dream, keep working, and I assure you, it will eventually pay off.