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

Hi Amber, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Becoming an entrepreneur was something that has been inside of me for a longtime. Growing up I was always different from people in my age group. I was placed in advanced classes in elementary school because of my standardized test scores. From that moment own I just knew I would be different. At a young age I worked jobs that had horrible leadership and I knew that I couldn’t do that for the rest of my life. I always loved getting my hair done and looking good, so I decided that I wanted to start an affordable hair extension company. The thought process behind Impress Luxury Hair is wanting women to be able to be beautiful. I feel that hair is very important when it comes to a black woman’s appearance. Whenever I get that new hair due, I feel beautiful, and I look great. Feeling gorgeous and lovely is a wonderful thing.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

What sets me apart from others is my passion and dedication that I have for being an entrepreneur. I make so many sacrifices to maintain my business brand for Impress Luxury Hair and Diamond Tax Service. I have set certain morals and ethics that I go by for both my businesses and I stick with that to not lose site of doing right by people. When I started my first business Diamond Tax Service, I was in school full-time at Columbus State University. Going to school for business management taught me so much about being an entrepreneur and what goes on behind the scenes of running a small business. It wasn’t easy going to school, working a part-time job, running a small business, being a mother and wife but I earned my degree and maintained a profitable business. To get through the hard times and life obstacles I prayed daily and took it one day at a time. I am so happy that I never gave up and continued to work for what I wanted. The lessons that I have learned are endless but some that stick out more than others are as follows. I know now that you can’t trust everyone who says they are a business owner because their intentions might not be as pure and genuine as yours. Pray before and during every decision you make so God can lead you through. Don’t be afraid to invest in yourself and promote your business everyday no matter the response. Don’t be afraid to step back and revamp your brand until you have what you think is right for your business. Finally, all money isn’t good money. I want the world to know that I put my life into my businesses so that all women can feel and look beautiful. I want to be able to reach more customers than I could possibly image so that my business can grow. From that growth I want to be able to offer people jobs and help others that are in need. That is why I offer an online based hair company so women and men all over the world can experience the Impress Luxury Hair brand at www.impressluxuryhair.com.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A fun time with my best friend would be to hang out, shop, eat and make memories. I would take them to one of the many mom and pop restaurants in Columbus, GA. I am a big supporter of non-franchised restaurants. We would be spending some time at the Riverwalk, and sight see. Then we would do some shopping and go to different boutiques and stores. When the weekend come, we would take a trip to Atlanta and catch a show or game depending on the season. Of course, while in Atlanta I would love to go ride ATVs. Before leaving we would have to try a restaurant with good food and music.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I would put all thanks to God. I am truly blessed to be able to continue to do what I love. Being an entrepreneur isn’t easy but I thank God for the wins and lessons that I have had on this road to growth and success. I also want to thank my family for their support and listening ears. Also, my grandmother who is no longer here with us for seeing greatness in me and teaching me about being strong and educated black woman. Last but not least my husband for his endless support and paying for a class that I never knew would open so many doors for me to grow and learn from.

Website: www.impressluxuryhair.com

Instagram: impress_luxury

Facebook: Impress Luxury Hair/ Diamond Tax Service

Image Credits
Darnell Robinson (SpotLights247)

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