We had the good fortune of connecting with (1) Nikki (2) Kimbrelia (1)Summers (2) Dixon) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi (1) Nikki (2) Kimbrelia, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Nikki: What really helped me was having support from family and friends. I also made sure to prioritize praying and meditating. I’m so grateful to have family/friends, as well as my business partner, to help redirect me in times when I felt discouraged or stressed.

Kim: The biggest thing that I had to learn as it relates to habits is that self-care should be prioritized on the list as well. We all know that things like waking up early and staying organized are beneficial but it is vital that we also get into the habit of taking care of our minds and body.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
(Q1) We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others?

Nikki: I think Kim will agree with 100% percent with this. Our customer service is on Chik-fil-A. In the beauty industry, that is not the most common. Pinkarpet customers come back because they are getting top quality products and service.

Kim: For sure! Our customer service is personal and top tier.

(Q2) What you are most proud of or excited about?

Nikki: We are super excited to announce that we are undergoing rebranding. The plans that we are executing this year are definitely ones that everyone should be on the look out for.

Kim: Yes! PinKarpet was one of the first black owned brick and mortar hair stores in our area. We know what our community values and we plan to give them just that in a new and exciting way.

(Q3 ) How did you get to where you are today business-wise? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?

Kim: After college, we realized that what we had been taught about going to school for financial stability was flawed. We decided to do something that we saw our parents do, which was start a business but it was not without it’s challenges.

Nikki: Of course, it took it like a lot of hard work, but when you have passion and determination, it makes enduring the challenge feel more realistic by keeping your end goal in sight. Setting clear goals has helped me to hold myself accountable and get back on track when I felt like I wanted to give up.

Kim: Correct. Goal setting yields intentionality. And intentionality produces perseverance.

(Q4 ) What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?

Kim: One of the most valuable lessons that I have learned is to never be afraid to ask for help. Business is multifaceted and we are not experts in everything.

Nikki: I agree, delegation is extremely important. As small business owners we try to take on everything ourselves, that simply impossible. You have to learn how to effective utilize the available recourses and networks.

(Q5) What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

Kim: When people think about Pinkarpet Hair, I want them to not only think about quality, but also service. We are not only in the business of making people look good, but also making people feel good and valued.

Nikki: I want people to look at Pinkatpet as a trust worthy brand that can provide you with quality hair and services. Kim and I both have a service industry background, and we truly value our customer’s thoughts and concerns.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Nikki: When I’m in Atlanta, I have to go to Louisiana Bistro and Plant Based Pizzeria for food. For nightlight, I enjoy Atlanta staples like Whiskey Mistress and Sweet Food Lounge. And you have to go shopping in Lenox mall and the Buckhead Village..

Kim: Nikki gave some good ones. I like to eat local so I always get food recommendations from my friends that are Atlanta natives. Im always down for an impromptu concert at the Fox, a random outing at Centennial Park, or even a farmers market. Atlanta DOES NOT MISS!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Nikki: If I would not have attended an HBCU, I probably would not have realized the demand for quality hair extensions. The close knit environment that was fostered at Thee Jackson State University allowed me to connect with young women who were in search of quality products. In addition, I was able to meet other like minded women who had a passion for succeeding and entrepreneurial spirits. That kept me motivated.

Kim: I have been blessed to have a tribe of family, friends, and mentors that keep me focused and grounded. Each of them has contributed to my growth significantly. The other great thing about having a solid tribe is that everyone has different resources that they bring to the table.

Website: www.pinkarpethairboutique.com

Instagram: @pinkarpethair @nikkinechole @fly_sophisticate

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