WOMAN ON THE RISE

ANARSHA O’MEALY

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business Slay Beauty Bar.

Anarsha is a driven entrepreneur who has had a passion for business for as long as she can remember. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs she has been braiding since she was eight years of age and had a full clientele before the age of twelve. Anarsha founded Slay Beauty Bar in 2016, which is a modern beauty enterprise that offers cosmetology services to Rochester and the surrounding communities. Slay was her first property acquisition and is now a part of her Real Estate Portfolio for her second company Stush International Properties. Her real estate company was founded the same year as Slay and holds a portfolio of both traditional and short term rentals.

What makes you hustle? What does the word hustle mean to you?

I have a strong desire to constantly build and grow. I believe life is a journey of continuously evolving. The more you invest, connect and expose yourself to new business ventures or even a different approach to your current business the more you expand as a human. In addition to that I also enjoy providing services, creative spaces and opportunities that bring people together for a greater cause. When I think of the word “hustle” I think of the act of selling, promoting and acquiring aggressively, energetically and constantly.

PHOTOS BY ETIQUETTE STYLES STUDIO

What made you decide to start your own business?

I started my own business because of my passion to serve and create unique experiences. I love the flexibility of creating my own schedule, providing a vehicle that allows income opportunities for others as well as the stability and legacy being in business provides for my family. I come from a family that prioritizes hard work and excellence. These traits are deeply imbedded in

me and I feel a sense of purpose when I’m operating in this capacity.

What type of services do you provide and what do you feel sets you apart from your competition?

Slay beauty bar provides suite spaces for beauty professionals with an interest in being their own boss and expanding their personal brand. We currently offer natural hair services, extensions, braids, color and online merchandise. We are constantly staying on top of the latest trends, furthering education and staying innovative.

What is your favorite part of what you do?

I enjoy seeing the transformation between a clients arrival and when they leave; New look, new you! Slay provides an environment that allows clients to unwind, relax and reset. My favorite part of being a business owner is connecting with the clients and guests by providing an exceptional experience.

What’s the best business advice you have ever received?

Don’t Quit.

What do you think helped you the most and what is the biggest factor that has helped you be successful?

My family and network has been great in supporting me and guiding me along the way. I’ve learned so much from my mentors and business colleagues. I would certainly recommend mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs or for any business owner that is seeking growth in their field.

How do you find new clients? What has been your biggest success?

I find new clients through word of mouth, social media, advertising and platforms such as Styleseat, Shareshare, Airbnb, etc.

“Anarsha is a driven entrepreneur who has had a passion for business for as long as she can remember.”

What does beauty mean to you?

Beauty is not only our outward appearance but light you give to the world. Beauty is a combination of your positive intrinsic qualities, the way you touch lives, your standards and values. Looking attractive while embodying unique inner qualities is my definition of beautiful.

As a female leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career?

One barrier that has been a hurdle in my career is developing a team that mirrors my vision for the companies. Recognizing the high standards and vision that I have for Slay and Stush, I am learning how to seek out individuals according to their strengths. I’m becoming more comfortable with delegation as I continue to scale.

You are undoubtedly busy, how do you take care of yourself and maintain a good mental health? What do you do for fun?

I am very busy but I have learned to create a morning routine which includes a small window of me time for prayer, meditation and stillness. I also plan regular vacations because I love to traveling. Outside of travel I enjoy reading, exploring different types of cuisine, new experiences and spa days.

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?

Retiring as a stylist last year and transitioning into full time management.

What is the key to keeping long-term

clientele, and for having repeat business?

Providing opportunities for feedback, keeping standards high and delivering quality has been key in retaining long term clients

What is the number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?

We would like to focus on marketing and expanding our reach.

How long have you been training, and perfecting your techniques prior to opening your own business?

Before opening the salon I was actively braiding since I was a young child. I’ve always been very artistic. I can draw very well and I’ve been staging homes for friends for atleast 15 years.

Do you use social media to network? What is your favorite platform?

I do use social media as a form of networking. I’m currently the most active on Facebook.