"Progress over perfection" is the motto of Verdant Salon & Suites owner Grace Stephenson. Grace was willing to invite the CEO team to get a behind-the-scenes look at the transition she is making as she scales up her business.

Grace currently offers services at her salon suite, Grace's Chair, in Kickapoo Centre. But she will be moving to downtown Lincoln later this month to open Verdant Salon & Suites (situated between Guest House and the new J&M Meat Market.) This means she will go from being a sole stylist to the owner of a multi-station salon where other stylists can rent a booth.

She shared the process, challenges, and rewards an entrepreneur may face when they make a big shift. She credits the support of those who have mentored her throughout her career as a major factor in her success. CEO mentor-at-large Diana Lee Pickett and Lisa Huff's Stylist Soul Tribe mastermind group have offered her advice, support, and a community in which to thrive.

When asked about how competitive salons are, Grace explained, "It used to be that salons were pretty cutthroat. But now I think we understand that we don't need to have a scarcity mindset. We all specialize in different things - there are plenty of heads of hair to go around. It's a 'rising tide lifts all boats' situation."

That being the case, students asked Grace how she sets herself apart. "People have different preferences. They will find the salon that offers what they want and need. For my salon, it's about the experience I offer: education-based, sustainable, and personalized."

Verdant Salon & Suites will be holding a "soft launch" Open House the March 15 & 16 - find details on fb and IG.

Thank you, Grace (and Rory 🐶), for letting the CEO team get a glimpse of your work in progress!

Fun Fact: Grace is the daughter of LLCEO facilitator Lisa Kuhlman. Proud mama? You bet! 😊