We asked folks we admire to shoutout books and tell us about the impact those books had on them.

Carmen DeCharisse Smith | Entrepreneur & Creative Director

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I really enjoyed reading this book. This book helped me to realize my personal legends. I was really inspired because when you really want something in life, the universe is here to help you and whatever your soul desires. It’s all about transforming the power of your dreams into reality. Read more>>

Alchemy InCoaching | Life Coaching & Educational Consultants

The Alchemist, written by Paulo Coehlo, shares the story of a young Andalusian shepherd boy, Santiago, embarking on a journey to find a buried treasure near the pyramids. Along his journey he faces obstacles that challenge him in unexpected ways. That is such a great and pertinent question. The name of our company is actually based on a very famous book. We, Dr. Brian Maiden, Mr. Deonte Young, and Mr. Armand Johnston II, are united by Paulo Coelho’s classic novel, The Alchemist. The concepts, the vision and the essence of the book is the cornerstone of our company. The Alchemist is about a young man, Santiago, on a journey to find treasures. He soon learns that the journey and the relationships along the way are the true treasure and reward. After some healthy discussion among the partners, we knew the only name that captured the essence of us as individuals and as a collective. Read more>>

Lindsey Rae Howard | Salon Owner

I just finished “ Leave your Mark” by Aliza Licht, and it’s hands down my favorite book I’ve picked up in a long time. In a competitive industry such as the beauty industry, it helped me compartmentalize and focus on each relationship that walks through my door, focus on my own personal growth with grace & honesty, and excel not only at the best skill level at what I do…but being a more thoughtful human along the way. We as business owners can get so lost in engagement with social media platforms, and this book helped me remember to celebrate myself along the way. It’s a healthy dose of real talk in a woman’s working world. We are only here once, and I want to leave a legacy with each head of hair I touch. My salon motto is “ I pray we touch your hearts before we touch your hair” and this book reiterated how crucial love is behind a business, and also taught me how to handle things with more self control as a owner. Read more>>