Grace’s Dream

The Journey of Starting a Business: Grace’s Story Behind Lily & Sparrow Hair Studio

Starting a business is a unique adventure, often filled with a mix of passion, determination, and resilience. For Grace, launching her own salon, Lily & Sparrow Hair Studio, wasn’t just about styling hair—it was about building meaningful relationships and creating a welcoming space where people feel valued, uplifted, and empowered.

For Grace, the dream of owning her own salon came from her deep-rooted sense of independence and her desire to work on her own terms. But beyond that, it was about the joy she found in connecting with her clients on a personal level. Every conversation in her chair becomes an opportunity to hear a new story, forge a new connection, and provide more than just a haircut. Grace wanted her salon to be a place where people could feel comfortable, understood, and appreciated—where the experience was just as important as the service itself. And that’s exactly what keeps her inspired every single day.

The Path to Entrepreneurship

"Success in business isn’t measured by profits alone, but by the lives you touch and the community you create along the way."

The road wasn’t always easy. There were moments of self-doubt, days that felt particularly challenging, and times when the workload seemed overwhelming. But through it all, Grace showed up consistently, and it was that perseverance that allowed her to grow, both as a stylist and as an individual.

After graduating in 2022, Grace began working at Dimensions Salon under the mentorship of Cassie Bigelow, the salon’s owner. Working at Dimensions provided Grace with not only the technical skills required to be a great stylist but also the business acumen needed to run a successful salon. Cassie’s guidance was invaluable, showing Grace the behind-the-scenes work required to build and maintain a thriving business. From balancing the books to creating a welcoming environment for clients, Grace absorbed it all.

Building the Heart of Lily & Sparrow Hair Studio

When Grace finally opened Lily & Sparrow Hair Studio, she knew the heart of her business would go beyond hair. For her, it’s about providing a space where clients can find comfort, whether it’s through meaningful conversations, quiet moments of reflection, or simply the peaceful experience of getting a haircut. At her salon, clients can chat, relax, or even take a nap if they choose—whatever makes them feel most at ease. The goal is to uplift and encourage every person who walks through the door, reminding them of their worth and embracing the belief that everyone is capable of great things.

Grace’s mission is deeply rooted in faith and encouragement. She strives to create a studio where people feel genuinely cared for, offering more than just hair services but a place of renewal. She believes in the importance of meaningful interactions and creating a positive atmosphere, with the core message that “God qualifies the called.”

The Power of Mentorship

"When passion meets perseverance, a business becomes more than just a place—it becomes a reflection of the heart behind it."

Mentorship has been a vital part of Grace’s success, and she believes wholeheartedly that having a strong mentor can make all the difference. Cassie Bigelow was, and still is, her biggest inspiration and source of support. Cassie didn’t just teach Grace how to be an excellent stylist; she taught her how to balance the demands of running a business without letting it overwhelm her life.

Cassie’s lessons on professionalism, strategy, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance continue to guide Grace today as she builds her own business on the foundation of these principles.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Grace’s advice to anyone looking to start their own business in the beauty industry is simple: just do it. Take the leap, even when it feels scary. Surround yourself with mentors who can guide you, and be willing to work hard and stay consistent. Most importantly, when you make a decision, commit to it fully and trust the process—even when doubts creep in.

The journey to running a successful business isn’t always smooth, but every step along the way offers valuable lessons. For Grace, it’s been an experience that has shaped her not only as a stylist but as a business owner and person. And every day at Lily & Sparrow Hair Studio, she’s reminded of the beauty in building something that reflects her passion, values, and love for people.