Meet Sher Segal | Hair Colorist & Salon Owner

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

Hi Sher, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve worked in nearly every aspect of a salon. I started at the front desk while continuing my freelance makeup and styling work in the production industry. Eventually, I made the decision to attend cosmetology school and pursue hair full-time behind the chair. During school, I worked as a salon assistant, which gave me invaluable experience and set me up for success in an apprenticeship training program after I graduated and earned my license.

Once I began working behind the chair, I gained a wide range of experience: from being a commission-based employee to a booth renter, a solo suite renter, and now a salon owner. These different roles gave me a complete perspective on what works—and what doesn’t—in our industry.

When creating my salon, I wanted to address many of the challenges I’ve observed. I envisioned a space where stylists could experience the support and team culture of a commission salon but without the toxic, competitive, and gossipy atmosphere that often drives great stylists to go solo.

At the same time, I wanted to provide a solution for newly independent stylists who may feel overwhelmed by the business side of the industry. Without proper guidance on managing expenses or building a brand, the transition from employee to entrepreneur can be daunting. My own experience as a booth renter was invaluable, but I often had to work under a salon name tied to its owner.

I took note of all these challenges and created a salon that serves as a middle ground. Here, stylists can be financially independent without the high expenses of a solo suite, while also having the freedom to build their own brand and business. That’s why I chose a deliberately neutral salon name—to empower stylists to shine as individuals rather than feel overshadowed by the business itself.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My path was definitely not easy, I started my journey in the film and tv industry in So Cal where I grew up. There’s a reason they call it “swimming with sharks”! This was not a decision that was favored by my family, I was raised you get a “real job”, you work hard and build your retirement. I was always a creative so that was hard for me.. I hated corporate culture. I was the girl in her room on weekends playing with makeup and hair and buried in fashion magazines. But I did what my family expected and worked as a legal secretary while attending paralegal education. I was halfway through a semester in Tort Law class when I was hit with an overwhelming sense of dread and remember saying to myself I don’t see myself retiring with this. I wanted the excitement being on set gave me. It was a high, and I was addicted. But in an industry that’s notoriously nepotistic, I knew no one in it. I did manage to create success in it, but worked my butt off for every job I booked. I experienced so many challenges as well as blessings but in hindsight it can be a very toxic environment to a young impressionable girl just wanting to do her craft. The me too movement definitely brought that to light. On the positive it taught me resilience, self respect and love and showed me inner strength and fortitude that I would need in life’s journey through moving to NYC not knowing anyone or having a place or job lined up.. I just kind of showed up on New Year’s Day with two suitcases and my makeup kit. I can’t tell you anything specific that made me do that..: just a strange calling to be there. Nothing made me grow up faster than my time there for sure. I think it’s true what they say about nyc… if you can survive there, you can survive anywhere! I did it again later in life but going south to weather I feel is much better suited for me! I chose Miami that time and ended up working in production and salons for 10 years before loving to NC to be closer to my Dad. As I’m approaching my 60’s I’m becoming more inclined and interested in a more holistic lifestyle and service offerings like Reiki and Mindset Mentoring although I still love being behind the chair and doing color.

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.
So many here that I haven’t yet experienced! Definitely the coastal areas, I think the beaches here are pretty beautiful, there honestly isn’t anywhere I’ve seen in NC doesn’t have beauty. The trees, and nature are a stark contrast to the concrete jungles I’ve experienced. I love the greenways and walking trails I like to show people those. Still trying new restaurants and seem forever on the hunt for a Californian approved Mexican restaurant… I love a good street taco!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Wow! So many! To name all the books I’ve read and influential people that I’ve crossed paths with over my life is too much. But I can say that the most beneficial have been from self healing and improvement books and mentors. Entrepreneurship is really very spiritual when you think about it. The amount of inner strength and work that needs to be done is monumental. Getting over fears, lack mindset, imposter syndrome and inner trauma triggers is crucial to success.

Website: https://www.thelittlesalonco.net

Instagram: https://manes.n.makeup

Other: Pro portfolio and resume
https://sherilynsegal.portfoliobox.net