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

Hi Holly, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
I read the book “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn” by Betty Smith the summer of my 6th grade. Its message has carried with me since that time. Life is incredibly short. We spend so much time in the pursuit of living a full life that we forget that much of living is within the journey and not in the highlights. “Being” everyday, connecting with the tangible and reflecting on our ‘muchness’ is what life is about. “Dear God,” she prayed, “let me be something every minute of every hour of my life. Let me be gay; let me be sad. Let me be cold; let me be warm. Let me be hungry…have too much to eat. Let me be ragged or well dressed. Let me be sincere – be deceitful. Let me be truthful; let me be a liar. Let me be honorable and let me sin. Only let me be something every blessed minute. And when I sleep, let me dream all the time so that not one little piece of living is ever lost.”

What should our readers know about your business?
After my industry was shut down for 4 months during the pandemic, I realized how truly divided the mission on how best to serve our guests had become. How we feel about the way we look, is much more about armor than it is about vanity. We are all fighting a battle that others know nothing about. This human shell, the way we present to the outside world, is quite literally an armor we put on to do battle each day. Hairstylist, Nail techs and Esthetician are some of the only people who spend one on one time and touch you beside doctors, nurses and dentists. This is a sacred role, not to be taken lightly. After we began to try and “get back to normal” I became more acutely aware that the need for human connection and comrade was stronger than ever. I took a chance on myself by procuring the funding needed to open my own salon. The time during lock down to reflect and plan for a brighter more cohesive future gave brith to Fringe Society Salon and Eclectics.(FSSE)
Fringe is a European term for bangs, but being on the “fringe” means to be a bit unconventional or anti mainstream. As a Northern transplant in a rural North Carolina town still adjusting to cross cultural collaborations and alternative lifestyles, this felt an accurate display of our salons vibe. The term “Salon” was used during the French Revolution as a gathering of people organized to share and exchange ideas on art, and society, not just a place for personal care services as it is today. At a time where we are so “connected” via social media, and the internet, FSSE strives to honor the transformative power of cosmetology to redefine confidence and community. We unite science, art and culture to provide unparalleled beauty service and guest experience.
Our salon differs from many by taking the time to curate a personal experience. Needs are met by understanding and connecting with lifestyle, personality, short and long term goals, budget, self-care struggles and ambiance preferences. Some guests can’t wait for a chatty stylist, while others really look forward to checking out, popping head phones in and getting into a zen place. I am proud of the level of personalization and 5 sense approach we bring to our guests. The salon was carefully thought out to allow different zones for alternative vibes and levels of relaxation. We boast an eclectic group of patrons who range in professions, and backgrounds. This gives us the ability to match community members in need with those able to offer personalized services of their own. We also boast an in-house sustainable beauty/art boutique offering findings from local makers, artisans and creatives.
At FSSE, team members must complete a master course after initial state licensure, first in consultation, and then in mastering the skills and techniques of the field. We work very much as a team. Newer stylist can lean into mentors in house, to help collaborate and articulate processes to guests.
Opening a business has proved to be the most challenging and multifaceted adventure of my life so far. From navigating the complexity of cash flow, and marketing, to managing and inspiring a team of differing personalities, skill and experience levels; to curating an open, welcoming and inclusive environment for guests, the amount of hats you have to wear as an owner and artist can feel overwhelming. The learning never ends. The truth is that no one that becomes an entrepreneur has all the answers. This is a journey, and pieces get picked up and put down along the way.
The ability to pivot, learn and change as you get metics and feedback from employees, patrons and community is vital. Some things come natural and some are learned the hard way. Commit to getting through the hard by asking for help and seeking resources. Always look to sit at tables where people know more than you, and share what you’ve learned with those a few steps behind on their journey. You can’t exist in a vacuum. Surround yourself with those who want to see you succeed. You have to be prepared to lose people along the way. Not everyone will understand your vision or desire to unwaveringly sailing towards your dreams and goals. Fear is a joy thief. Take educated guesses and chances on your self. If you don’t, no one else will.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are lots of businesses built with love here and in the surrounding area. We are lucky to be close to a handful of amazing small towns and the OBX, which make for great day trips. I love being able to take friends and family for adventure field trips. I would start with coffee at Sweet Easy in Elizabeth City. They have a charming space in the historic Virginia Dare building and it gives flapper era vibes. Grabbing breakfast sandwiches from Belcross bakery in Camden, before going to Morris Market in Maple for fresh vegetables and baked goods would be another must see. They have live music during the warmer months, and Oliver Anthony just played there! Taking a walk though the Museum of the Albermarle in Elizabeth City is always a highlight. From pirates and shipwrecks, to a Civil war strong hold and Wright brothers headquarters, learning just how vital our waterway and location was for the evolution of our country is inspiring. Heading to Cape Hatteras for the day is a truly unique experience. The natural beaches and wildlife make a great place to clear your mind and connect with inspiration.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This journey has definitely been propelled by those that inspired, mentored and supported my ideas, vision and purpose. I would like to thank my kids for inspiring me to continue to look forward and reminding me everyday that life is so precious. To my partner for pivoting when something pops up and for pitching in without hesitation to make this a true family business. To my sister for letting me experiment on her when my skills were really, really lacking, and her ability to cheer me up when I am in a motivational slump.
I want to shout out to my amazing cosmetology teachers and mentors along the way who honed my technical skills and stripped away just the beauty aspect of the industry. It helped me focus on the more important work of people and lives that we touch.
To my Mom in heaven, for validating and supporting my often relentless desire to create art and change lives. Without her I would have not had the courage to go against the grain and walk the road less traveled.

Website: https://www.fringesocietysalonandeclectics.com

Instagram: @fringesocietysalon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fringesocietysalonandeclectics/

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