Valina Patton opened her salon, Beauty by Valina, in the Niles, IL. MY SALON Suite location in July 2020. She provides eyebrow, hair removal, and hair services, including extensions and custom wigs. She has been working in the beauty field for 12 years, both at retail establishments, such as Nordstrom and Ulta, and offering hair and other services for weddings and special events on the side. When COVID-19 hit, Valina had to cancel hundreds of freelance appointments and was unable to work for three months. She heard about MY SALON Suite from a friend and decided to open her own suite. She now has 200 devoted clients.
Valina plans to grow her business within MY SALON Suite and looks forward to hiring employees and launching her own cosmetics line. She lives in Chicago’s Logan Square. “The pandemic was the kick I needed to take the leap of faith and bet on myself by opening my own MY SALON Suite,” says Valina. “My clients have been very vocal about feeling comfortable and safe in a private suite. My parents and wonderful fiancé were instrumental in the process – today, my flexible schedule allows me to spend more time with them. Plus, I have the freedom to be my creative self, and that’s the best feeling. Now with the honor of being named a Suite Elite Featured Member, I really believe there are no limits.”
After Valina’s suite upgrade, we sat down with her to hear from her about how it has helped take her business to the next level.
Tell us about the entire process and what you loved about it.
“ We started with a Zoom call with the hosts of The Home Edit. It was pretty cool to virtually meet the other Featured Members from other states. We shared pictures of our suites and the hosts really took their time and let everyone know individually what would look best in their space. I personally loved the fact that they liked what I had already done with my suite. They called it ‘modern and chic’. Next came the meetings with the interior and graphic designer. Both Eric and Jeanine really took my input into consideration and gave really helpful suggestions on my branding. It came together much better than I had imagined! When they did the big reveal I had no idea I was going to shed tears! It was just the right amount of rose gold accents that created the glam feel that I needed. I also loved that they paid close attention to me being a new plant mom, I got the cutest new plant. The little things can make a big difference!”
What are your favorite parts about your suite now?
“My favorite parts about my suite are the rose gold shelving that showcase my eyebrow line, the light fixture and definitely my rose bar.”
What have your clients said about your suite upgrade?
“My clients love the suite upgrade! They notice as soon as they walk in and now that my products are visible; it’s a lot easier to show and sell to them.”
How has it made you feel more creative in your space or helped you with your craft?
“I definitely feel that my suite is now complete and really is a great reflection of my personal and professional brand. Every time I walk in, I feel inspired. I’m even creating more content for social media, something I was never consistent with.”
What does it mean to you to be a Suite Elite Featured Member?
“Being a Suite Elite Featured Member to me means being an example for other Members to join. Launching my business right in the middle of this pandemic was very risky but I’m reaping the rewards. I’m honored to have this title and I will continue to show other entrepreneurs that they can also have the freedom to be their creative selves on their own terms!”
To watch Valina’s upgrade experience, click here.
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Click here to learn more about becoming a Suite Elite Member with MY SALON Suite