Meet Dersia Clay | Salon owner and Stylist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dersia Clay and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dersia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my business was to create a learning environment for the stylists and clients. I believe there is a need for extensive education in hair and beauty. I would love to create a salon where a client can come in and feel comfortable with going to any of the stylist assured they are all capable of giving great customer service and have thorough knowledge of hair care for all textures.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My hair salon is very much in the beginning stages with a lot of expertise and very little funding. As a little girl I struggled with self-confidence and had trouble styling my hair. I remember the little girls hair I would braid as a child and loved the confidence they left with. It was then I knew how I could make a difference in the lives of others. I have overcome so many obstacles in life, there isn’t enough space on this site to tell the whole story. I have been homeless and had to sleep in my salon suite in Scottsdale and risked losing my business until another business owner helped me. Being a stylist isn’t the easiest job, but it’s the most rewarding. My challenges right now is that I need a lot of help but I can’t afford payroll. I still have renovations that need to be done and equipment. I have had surgery for chronic tendonitis and still have pain all over my body from standing on my feet all day. My children have missed out on a lot of my time and events due to my schedule. I’m doing everything on my own and I care so much about the people it’s hard to quit. I have learned to stay focused on my goals and obtain as much business knowledge as I can. I have been diligent on every aspect in this business. I have renovated spaces, done interior design, web development, take business classes, and I have volunteered my services in shelters. I want the world to know there are stylists that still care. I want to pass down my expertise to stylist and help people find their fit in the industry. My clients have been such a blessing in my life, I need them just as much as they need me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Scottsdale of course!!! I would have them come to the salon to style their hair. We would definitely hike 2-3 times. Mt. Camelback is my favorite. A mountain is great for beginners, and they are really about that life, we will hike S Mountain, or just watch the sun set. I will take them to Tempe Townlake so we can ride the scooters or get on a boat. We have to go to Fashion Square mall in Scottsdale!!! I would take them to Old Town for the weekend and start off at The W for cocktails and sushi at Roku then head upstairs to the pool for a quick dip. Sunday I would take them to church at FCC and have brunch at Chic Chef. I would try to fit in some horseback riding in my neighborhood if they have a chance.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The person who submitted me for this opportunity. Alexandria is a go getter and wants to learn and isn’t afraid of correction. She helps light the fire behind the desire to build something in an industry that’s dying. We need more stylists that genuinely care. We both have overcome some obstacles in life and I commend her for recognizing my strengths at a time I was ready to give up. We all need support and I’m forever grateful for her loyalty and support.

Website: www.hairiamaz.com

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