Hi!
I’m Shannon, Co-Founder of Fika Beauty Corp and I have a story for you. So, grab a cozy spot, a cup of your favourite beverage ( I highly recommend a matcha latté with vanilla syrup), and let's dive into how two friends decided to go all in on a dream in the middle of a pandemic and went from idea to up and running in one pandemic lockdown 👀.
Okay, picture this: amidst all the chaos and uncertainty brought on by the pandemic, my friend, Annie, and I decided to throw our comfort zones out the window and dive headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship. As most of you already know, we decided to open a hair and nail salon in Kanata, ON. Crazy, right?! ? It truly felt like we were going a little bit crazy (weren't we all though 🤪), but you know what? It turned out to be the best decision we've ever made✨.
Annie and I have known each other for over 10 years! She has been a devoted Auntie Annie to my kids, and one of my biggest cheerleaders. Although we were already friends, talking through a business idea together is what truly showed us how well balanced we are as partners. Where I tend to be quick to process decisions and a little too serious; Annie processes decisions more thoughtfully and keeps things light hearted. These attributes put together meant we were able to handle the stress and make big decisions much simpler by trusting each other's instincts. There was ALOT of trust as we made some very impulsive decisions 😅. Like renting a warehouse within a week of finding it by accident👀.
Let's rewind for a second. Before the lockdown, I was in, what I realize now, was a toxic environment that was sapping my energy. My passion, creativity, and self-esteem were at an all-time low when the pandemic started. So, I began online classes, thinking maybe I wasn't meant to be a hairstylist anymore and decided to move on, intending to change my career path. When the studios closed and I had time to step back and reflect, I realized that amidst the chaos of the pandemic, I found a moment of clarity.
It was time for a change.
A change in mindset about what the beauty industry could be.
A change in the way I spoke about myself.
It was time to turn my fears into challenges and luckily, Annie was ready to do the same.
Annie and I decided that the beauty industry we were raised in needed a transformation. We wanted to create a space that radiated good vibes, where everyone (staff and guests) could walk in and feel welcome, relaxed, and confident in their own skin. Somewhere fun, and light, that helped you slow down and appreciate spending time in good company. So, the concept of Fika Beauty was founded.
We have spent the last 3 years on this wild ride better known as entrepreneurship, the laughter and the tears, as we defied the odds and built our little sanctuary.
Entrepreneurship may have its challenges, but together, Annie and I have redefined the rules and created a space where everyone can glow. Care to join us?
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