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

Hi Tiffiany, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The idea of starting my own business came about as a result a few different reasons. It was heavily influenced by the desire to work for myself-doing what I love to do, and positioning myself to be able to give opportunities to other upcoming hairdressers. I have been doing hair since I was in my teens, so the the idea of starting my own business was also an avenue to elevate and personalize my brand. Years ago, I made a commitment to myself that each year, I’d either learn something new, or achieve something new in regards to my business that would better it as a whole, and also help me grow as an individual. Starting my own business was and is my reply the questions, “Who am I?” And “What do I do?”. I also wanted to have something official. To date, I am the sole proprietor of Hair By Tiffiany J LLC and the owner of Hair It Iz Beauty Studio.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I actually reached out to a few people on this one. My mentality has always been that “this is bigger than me”. I believe that in order to grow in business, it’s important to know how others “see” you. I asked them what do they feel sets me/my business apart from others, here are their responses: *”You make us feel welcome, like family and the vibes are great. You don’t sit in silence, you love music, and you actually talk to your clients. You get their vibe, and go from there making them feel comfortable.” *”Your personality, you make your clients feel like family.” *”You’re informative, professional, and responsive.” *”Your personality, customer service, good energy, good work-just a vibe.” *” You’re a stylist that cares about the wellbeing of your clients as well as the other stylist around you. We are coming up in an environment that people around us feel like it’s only room for one person and you make it known that there’s enough room for everyone around you to grow. You teach both clients & stylist. You make sure that everyone is well informed during the service as well as set expectations on what they should do after the service. ” * “I would say the time you take to perfect whatever it is you’re doing. So many people are in a rush to get the next person in their chair, or to go home. But you take your time and make sure everyone is pleased. That’s rare in our field.”

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?
Honestly, I’m mostly a home body, and when I do spend time elsewhere it’s most likely at a friends house or in Daytona where my boyfriend and sister live. If I had to suggest an area where you could find multiple things to do (eat, drink, relax, visit, hang out), like a one stop shop… I would recommend the south side of town. St. John’s Towncenter on up to Jax Beaches.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to shoutout my family, friends, mentors, and my lovely clients. They are truly my support system, and have helped me transform into the businesswoman I am today. To have people in your life that reciprocate the same compassionate energy you give them, and that genuinely encourage you because they desire to see you win is a feeling that cannot be expressed in words alone. To have those who can and will provide correction when needed, encouragement, joy, are prayer warriors, and just simply operate with love and transparency is amazing!! I can say without any doubt, that those in my circle are God sent.

Instagram: @hairbytiffiany_j
Facebook: @hairbytiffianyj