Meet Alexis Gwyn | Salon Owner, Educator, & Cosmetologist

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

Hi Alexis, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I started my business, my primary goal was to create a welcoming, safe space where women could feel empowered to make bold choices with their hair, like getting a big chop, while addressing any concerns they might have about their hair journey. I quickly realized that hair care is much more than just the few hours a client spends in the salon each month. It’s about the daily routine, the education they have on maintaining their hair between visits, and the confidence they feel in managing it themselves.

This realization drove me to expand my services beyond just in-salon treatments. I began offering both in-person and online education, which allowed clients to gain a deeper understanding of their hair and how to care for it independently. Additionally, I introduced custom hair care prescriptions tailored to each individual, ensuring that they have the right products and techniques to sustain the health and beauty of their hair long after leaving the salon. My thought process behind starting the business was about creating a holistic approach to hair care that would empower women to feel confident and knowledgeable about their natural hair.

My journey to where I am today in business has been filled with challenges and pivotal moments. One of the earliest struggles was going to school while working full-time without a car. I eventually had to make the difficult decision to leave my corporate job and become a shampoo assistant—a decision that, in hindsight, changed everything. It wasn’t easy, but it was the turning point that propelled me toward my passion.

Shortly after making that decision, I became a single mom just months before starting my salon. Balancing motherhood with building my business was tough, and then the pandemic hit, adding another layer of difficulty. During this time, I also faced personal battles with alcohol addiction, depression, and anxiety. Despite these struggles, I continued to show up, knowing that my work was not just about hair but about healing.

Hair became my therapy, my space to focus, to create, and to push through. I know for many of my clients, it’s the same—a space where they can feel seen, cared for, and empowered. That’s what sets my business apart. It’s more than just providing services; it’s about offering comprehensive education, creating custom hair care solutions, and building a community where women can feel comfortable addressing their hair concerns.

Through it all, I’ve learned the power of perseverance. The lessons I’ve gained through this journey have shaped not only my business but who I am as a person. I want the world to know that my brand is built on more than hair care; it’s about wellness, confidence, and creating a space where women can thrive, both in and out of the salon.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I were planning a week-long trip for someone in Raleigh, I’d want them to experience the best of what the area has to offer in terms of food, music, and culture. Here’s a little itinerary I’d suggest:

Day 1: Arrival and North Hills

Start at North Hills, exploring the vibrant area full of shops, restaurants, and live music spots. For dinner, enjoy the delicious French cuisine at Coquette Brasserie.

Day 2: North Carolina Museum of Art & Pinot’s Palette

Spend the morning at the North Carolina Museum of Art, exploring both indoor exhibits and the outdoor sculpture park. Have lunch at the Iris Cafe.

In the afternoon, unwind with a fun art class at Pinot’s Palette where you can create your own masterpiece while sipping on a drink (non-alcoholic options available).

End the evening with a relaxing concert at the museum if it’s the summer.

Day 3: Jazz Night at Broadsides and Flavor Hills

Begin with brunch at Flavor Hills, known for its incredible Southern flavors.
In the evening, enjoy Jazz Night at Broadsides in Wake Forest. The smooth tunes and cozy atmosphere will make for a perfect night out.

Day 4: Downtown Raleigh & True Flavors Cafe

Explore Downtown Raleigh, stopping at CAM Raleigh and a few local galleries.

Head to True Flavors Cafe for lunch, where Southern comfort food gets a modern twist.

Wrap up the day with an evening visit to Proximity Brewing in Durham for good vibes and live music.

Day 5: Rug Tufting & DPAC

Start the day with a unique experience: a rug tufting class, where you can create your own custom rug—it’s a fun and creative way to spend a few hours.

In the evening, head to DPAC in Durham for a Broadway show or live concert.

Day 6: Umstead State Park & Flavor Hills

After a morning hike at Umstead State Park, head to Flavor Hills for a flavorful and filling lunch.

Take a relaxing evening back in Raleigh’s Warehouse District, exploring local art, food, and entertainment.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch & Art

Enjoy a final brunch at Poole’s Diner or True Flavors Cafe, depending on your mood.

If there’s time, visit a local gallery or take another stroll downtown before heading out.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I want to give a huge shout-out to God for His grace and mercy, which have guided me every step of the way on this journey. I’m deeply thankful for the talent He’s given me and the opportunity to serve others through my work.

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to my family, who have been my rock through it all. From helping me care for my daughter to putting together my salon, they’ve supported me every step of the way. They were there when I needed practice as I started my career as a stylist, and their unwavering encouragement has meant everything to me.

A special shout-out goes to my mentors and coaches, Raymond Torregano and Angel Robinson, who have guided and shaped my professional growth. And I can’t forget my “career mom,” Leslie Price, who took me under her wing, taught me everything I know about healthy hair, and inspired the business model I follow today.

I also want to thank my incredible assistant, Theo, who is an essential part of my business and helps provide the best service to our clients.

Last but certainly not least, I want to thank my amazing clients. Day after day, they trust me with their hair, their confidence, and they push me to keep growing. Their referrals, challenges, and encouragement are a big reason why I’m here today.

Website: https://www.thephairmacysalon.com

Instagram: @thephairmacist

Facebook: The Phairmacist

Youtube: The Phairmacist

Image Credits
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Mirage Media

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