Meet Maria Hantzos | Stylist and Salon Owner

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

Hi Maria, what do you attribute your success to?
I believe the most important factor behind my success as a salon owner is authenticity. Authenticity is how I connect with my clients. I’m able to create an environment where my clients feel comfortable and I’m able to build on that friendship while doing their hair. One of the biggest aspects of a service career, is being able to connect with people. In my salon, I’m able to build real friendships with my clients, and that, in turn, keeps them coming back, and even referring their friends and family. A great percentage of my clientele is families and friend groups! When I am genuine to who I am at work, I’m able to feel comfortable doing what I do best, hair! People come back because of the hair skills, but because of the connections we build, as well!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Initially, I graduated college with a bachelor’s degree in English, in hopes of pursuing a career in law or teaching. After receiving my master’s degree, I found myself not happy with the career I was in; I was in a career that I didn’t love. I enrolled in cosmetology school and received my license and associate’s degree in cosmetology. Initially, I worked in a small salon where I learned a great deal of the industry, both technical and professional skills. I knew from the beginning of my styling career, that I wanted my own salon. After about 3 years, I decided to venture off on my own and rented out a salon suite. I was the only chair and employee in my suite and I figured it would either make or break my career. At first, I was extremely nervous and critical of myself, even more than usual. But I remember telling myself one thing from the beginning, I would stay true to myself in my business. Being authentic to yourself brings a comfort level to the surface and you can perform your job at your absolute best. My clients know exactly what they’re getting when they sit down. We have consultations that are open and honest. We sit and talk about what works for their lifestyle and their home maintenance. I am honest with my clients because I respect their support in my business and want them to be happy on every visit in the salon and at home. I’m a firm believer of your energy transferring to others. When people feel safe, they hold onto that and appreciate the environment they are in. As a stylist, I always want my clients to feel safe; as a business owner, I always want my clients to feel appreciated. I’ve learned that people will appreciate and support you when they feel the same and will refer their family and friends, as well! Some days are long, some appointments can bring sad news, but overall, the friendships that I have built with my clients have been the best aspect of my business.

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.
Luckily, my salon is near a popular shopping mall in Charlotte. When a friend or family member is in town, we, of course, visit the salon for a shampoo and style and then venture off to Southpark Mall. After walking around and shopping, I always take them to a number of restaurants nearby. My favorite restaurant in the area is Pacos, Tacos, and Tequila. Another favorite is Little Mama’s or Brixx’s Pizza. There are a lot of areas to walk around and enjoy the day, if the weather is nice, we venture off to the Symphony Park, where they have outdoor concerts during the summer.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to acknowledge my dear friend, Danielle Ng, for nominating me for this article. I would like to acknowledge my family for supporting me throughout the years of continuous schooling that finally led me to a career that I actually enjoy and for their continued support of my business. Lastly, I’d like to think my clients, who have become dear friends, and who have supported my business and continue to come back and refer their family and friends. There is no better feeling knowing that someone loves their experience in my chair so much that they would want to come back and tell their close circle of people to come, as well!!

Instagram: https://h2studio.maria

Image Credits
Indigo Photography and Taylor Willoughby Photography