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

Hi Charisse, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I was scared. I knew that in this moment, once I go for it all, there’s no turning back. I will be fully responsible for my income and the minimum amount it will take to maintain everyday expenses. I will no longer have the crutch of my full-time job. Not because I would never be able to get the job back, but because I made it a goal not to.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a master cosmetologist, I specialize in hair color and natural hair care. When I combine the two, I’m able to provide a unique color experience for my people who typically find it difficult to find a professional who can give them exactly what they’re looking for without compromising the natural integrity of their hair. It makes me proud to know that I’m able to service my community by doing what I love while watching their transformations happen in front of me. Since cosmetology school, I made it my mission to always operate with integrity, and put my best foot forward. Doing their hair was always easy. The hardest part was just showing up for myself. Making sure I stayed up to date on my education and being able to pass that knowledge down to my clients. I would remind myself that where I was yesterday was not where I wanted to stay.

Throughout my growth and development, the lesson that best molded me was understanding that you can learn something from everyone around you, even if it’s what not to do. I’m grateful for all my experiences and all of my interactions. I am truly influenced by them all.

I am a firm believer in the transfer of energy, so every meeting is intentional. I do my best to make sure that you leave my chair feeling better than you did when you came in. We all deserve better days and I enjoy being a part of that moment.

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?
Everything I do is mood based. So if I were looking for a spot to explore with no real destination, I’d hit the beltline in the Ponce City Market area. There are tons of delicious food spots on Buford Highway if you’re looking for some good Asian eats or even Mexican restaurants. You can never go wrong with a night at King of Diamonds. Midtown is my spot of choice if I want to turn up and dance the night away. Right in the heart at 12th & Crescent there are plenty of clubs to choose from. When I’m bringing myself back to zen, a good hike through Sweet Water Creek park will forever be a vibe.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shout out to my wife! From day one she has never discouraged me from my path to discovering my true potential. There were plenty of times where she would remind me that I need to step my game up & each time I would show and prove I can make things happen. Without her love and support, I would not have enjoyed the moments it took for me to get here. When things should have been hard, she made it feel easy! Also, shout out to my Phase 1 cosmetology teacher, Ms. Kimbé. She taught me more than hair. As a black woman in the industry, as an educator, as a leader, I owe a lot of my thanks to her.

Instagram: @YemesiRouge

Facebook: Facebook.com/YemesiRouge

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