103: mastering branding & leadership with Andrea Suarez: Gilded Salon

Welcome to another episode of the 10 Minute Beauty Business Podcast!

Today, I’m sitting down with Andrea Suarez, the visionary owner of Gilded Salon in Tampa, Florida. This conversation is packed with insights that every beauty professional will find invaluable, whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your brand to the next level. Andrea’s journey from a solo suite stylist to a successful salon owner is one you won’t want to miss!

In this episode, we dive deep into how Andrea built the Gilded brand from scratch, turning her passion for gold into a thriving salon with a distinct vibe and loyal clientele. Andrea shares the pivotal moments in her career, from moving back to Tampa and creating a unique brand that resonates with her personal style, to overcoming the challenges of salon ownership. Her story is a testament to the power of staying true to your vision while adapting to life’s twists and turns.

We also explore the importance of branding and how Andrea’s attention to detail, from custom tissue paper to an elevated client experience, has set Gilded Salon apart in a crowded industry. Her approach to leadership—putting her team first, investing in their growth, and fostering a positive salon culture—has been key to her salon’s success. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance growth with maintaining your core values, Andrea’s journey will provide you with plenty of actionable advice.

As we wrap up, Andrea opens up about what’s next for Gilded Salon, including a major renovation to better serve her clients and team. Plus, we discuss the challenges of staying original in a world saturated with social media and the value of outsourcing tasks to focus on what truly matters. Whether you're a salon owner or a beauty entrepreneur, this episode is filled with tips and inspiration to help you elevate your business and brand.