Beautitud Hair Salon SBDC Success Story
Economic Impact
- Business Start
- Owner’s Investment,
- 1 Job Created
Albania Alvarez, originally from the Dominican Republic, arrived in San Angelo from McAllen, TX, in 2021 with a dream of opening her own hair salon. Seeking guidance, she turned to the Angelo State University Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
Despite her cosmetology experience, Albania lacked a local clientele and startup funds. The SBDC advised her to focus on building her reputation as a stylist first. Over two years, Albania worked at another salon, growing her client list.
When an affordable salon space became available, Albania returned to the SBDC for assistance. With their guidance, she navigated the essentials of business ownership, including obtaining an IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN), determining a point-of-sale (POS) system to use, and building an online presence. Within four months, she opened Beautitud Hair Salon, creating more job opportunities in the process.
As a Hispanic- and woman-owned business, Beautitud Hair Salon represents empowerment in the local community. Albania’s journey highlights resilience and determination, showing that with support and hard work, dreams can become reality.
“I thought I had to get a business degree to open a business, but I was referred to the ASU SBDC. Getting the help to start my business at no cost was amazing and helpful.”