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

Hi Amanda, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting A Natural Connection, began with the idea that I had much more to offer my clients than just a great hair service. After being behind the chair for more than a decade I knew it would be amazing to be able to sit down face to face and coach clients or offer reiki. Connecting and supporting clients is something I had naturally done throughout my years as a hairstylist. So, it just made sense.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
At A Natural Connection I offer an array of services. I took all of my knowledge and talents, and put them on display to help others. I am a Licensed Master Cosmetologist, a Certified Life/Relationship Coach (specialized in communication and intimacy issues), a certified Reiki Master and I am currently training to be a Shamanic Practitioner. So, it’s a lot.

The number one question I get is .. what do they all have in common? For me, it’s a natural connection of being of service to my clients. I don’t just want to make someone look amazing on the outside. I want to help them feel amazing from the inside. Seeing the transformation that can happen when someone shifts their energy, achieves goals and feels empowered is what lights my soul on fire. I love it.

Has it been easy? No. Many people didn’t understand why I wanted to create this business, and many still don’t. A lot of people thought I should just be happy “doing hair”. However, as an entrepreneur I feel like we are designed not to settle. Having an entrepreneurial spirit lends us to blazing the trail. I want to help people and I won’t let anyone who doesn’t understand that to stand in the way of it happening. Thankfully I have a support system that encourages me when I need it. And I’m a bit a stubborn too. Ha!

Lessons I’ve learned along the way? Where do it start.
1) Never give up. If you have a passion for something, know that that seed has been planted for a reason. It may take longer than you think for it to bloom but give it time. The best things never come quickly or easily.

2) Don’t let things you don’t know stand in your way. I’ve never been good at marketing. Guess what? I’m learning. What good is a certification and a business if I don’t learn how to market it? This has been by far my biggest struggle.

3) What you put into it is what you get out of it. Set aside time in your schedule to devote to growing your business.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta one of the first things on my list would be to eat at the Sundial. It’s a revolving restaurant in the top of the The Westin in Peachtree Plaza. The view is spectacular and the food is good too. It’s an experience. The next thing would be The Beltline! The food, the art the beauty of it is a great way to spend an afternoon and/or evening. Art in the park at Grant Park is another great afternoon. I would sign us up for the complimentary picnic or the wood sign making party. As far as nightlife goes the Harlem nights Ultra Lounge is a fun spot. Food is good and it has a great vibe.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ve been very fortunate.. I have had a lot of support from my friends and family. My Mother, my sister and my closest friends have all 100% cheered me on. They have always encouraged me to follow my heart. When I came up with the idea of A Natural Connection I wasn’t quite sure how it would all fit together. But with the support of my family and friends I knew that it would. From ideas and suggestions for my website to even the name “A Natural Connection” that came from a brain storming session with my best friend DeAngela. I truly couldn’t have done this without them and their support.

Website: www.anaturalconnectioncoaching.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_natural_connection_coaching

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/106983815020394

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