Ebony Hair Salon’s Success and Community Ties

Elvera Ross always had early aspirations of becoming an accountant, but plans for her career path changed drastically.

22 years ago, she opened the doors of Ebony Hair Salon out of a personal necessity and a passion for hair care. Growing up with a biracial sister, she noticed a gap in the market when it came to styling for diverse hair types, particularly those of women of colour. Ross says her sister’s mother struggled to find the right resources and techniques to properly style her sister’s hair, prompting Elvera to establish a salon that would cater specifically to the unique needs of the community.

“I wanted to show that we could style our hair with braids or dreads,” she says.

Elvera let nothing stand in her way of making Ebony Hair Salon a success. In the early days of business, Elvera brought her grandson to work with her. “He would sit in his playpen while I would be doing hair,” she notes. “Black women are leaders in our community, and we do whatever it takes.”

Ross understands that many women juggle multiple responsibilities and the salon has become a workplace that nurtures both its clients and employees. Many of the salon staff have brought their children to work, creating a family-like environment, which results in flexibility. This is especially crucial for single mothers, as it offers balance to their professional ambitions in conjunction with their family responsibilities. Through offering braids, dreads, relaxers and haircuts, Ross says she aims to make quality hair care accessible to all. She also offers special promotions for her clients and organizes community events, fostering a sense of belonging and support. “We have people stop in all the time just to say hello or hang out for a while,” Ross says. “People say the salon makes them feel good. It makes them feel at home.”

Though Ebony Hair Salon has experienced challenges, including closing for several months during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ross says her strong belief in God has played a pivotal role in her journey. She credits her faith in providing her the strength to overcome numerous hurdles along the way. This spiritual foundation has not only guided her business decisions but has also infused the salon with a sense of purpose and her determination and unwavering belief in her mission have propelled her through tough times. This perseverance serves as a powerful lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs - resilience being the key to success.

Ross’ story is a testament to the strength and capability of Black women in business. Through her salon, she has done more than just provide hair care services. She has created a community hub that supports and uplifts women, inspires future generations, and demonstrates the importance of faith and resilience.

Her journey is an inspiration to many, showcasing that with determination and support, success is possible. Ross continues to exemplify what it means to be a leader and a mentor, proving that one woman’s vision can spark change in the community.

‍