Melinda Harris, president and CEO of Chicago’s MLine Exquisite Remy Hair Extensions is known as Chi-town’s “weave queen” the go-to lady for celebrity stylists seeking hard-to-find, high-end hair extensions worn by Hollywood beauties such as Beyoncé and Tyra Banks.
Harris’ business model is to sell only top-shelf weave (approximately $125 per package and up), because, she says, cheap hair sheds, tangles and the overall texture may not complement your natural hair, thus giving you a tell-tale weave that isn’t worth your hard-earned money.
“At MLine the most important things are choosing the hair and the processing,” explains Harris. “Only the best raw hair is chosen before it is treated; this is high quality, healthy, and strong hair. This produces a higher grade of extension hair that, with the proper care, will last longer without tangling or shedding.”
Harris has weaved her way into the competitive, iron-clad supplier side of the beauty business — and she’s not telling us how she did that — nevertheless, she shares her best tips for weave wearers and up-and-coming entrepreneurs alike.
Why did you start MLine?
Over the years I had been introduced to a lot of hair extensions that left me unsatisfied. I’ve also noticed that I wasn’t the only one experiencing this problem. Spending hard earned money on a product that does not last long, tangles and sheds uncontrollably, left me angry. That’s what prompted me to do an extensive research to find the best quality hair in the market. Although it took several years I am now confident in knowing and understanding what people look for in quality hair extensions. MLine offers some of the most flawless, long lasting 100% human hair extensions in the industry today, leaving our customers with incomparable satisfaction and the end result of luxurious, tangle and shed free, rich, natural looking extensions.
What was the most challenging aspect about launching your business, and how did you overcome it?
The most challenging aspect of launching the business was getting people to believe in our product. I understand some people are not comfortable with change especially changing hair products that they’ve been using for years. Being persistent, staying dedicated, and believing in our product eventually made people see that MLine supplies some of the most exquisite hair extensions in the industry today.
Who helps you with your business?
Outside of family and friends I have a team of beauty consultants that is committed to helping me as well as our customers. We know there is a high demand for quality hair extensions and that is why we extend world class customer service going above and beyond to satisfy our customers. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions from potential and existing clientele.
Were you always drawn to high-end hair products or was this something new for you?
Since the age of 15, I have always loved doing hair. I used to do all of my friends hair and would consult them in which product I thought would be best. I have always gravitated towards high end hair products. I like the best so I provide the best,especially when it comes to hair.
How do you promote such a sensitive business?
I promote my business online by using social network websites such as Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin. I also attend networking events, visit beauty and barber shops, hair shows as well as the people who wear my extensions all assist in promoting the business.
Are you currently in school or do you also have a day job?
Yes, I do have a day job that’s why I hired a team to assist me with my business. Without them I would be lost. But I am 100 percent committed to MLine.
What is the biggest mistake that women make when purchasing hair?
The biggest mistakes women make when purchasing hair is not buying quality hair. You definitely get what you pay for. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the hair you are purchasing. Don’t cheat yourself when it comes to your hair; the most conspicuous element of a woman’s beauty is her hair.
What is the most useful lesson that you’ve learned from other entrepreneurs?
The most useful lesson that I’ve learned from other entrepreneurs is to understand that relationships are more important than contracts. Business deals are relationships between people. The signed piece of paper is important but it’s merely the result of the relationship, not the cause. If the relationship crumbles, the contract won’t save you. That’s why it is important to build a positive and strong foundation when it comes to relationships with clients.
What advice do you have for future entrepreneurs?
Do what you love and believe in the product you are selling. If you can’t do what you love and make it profitable, you either got a hobby or a headache, not a sustainable business. Don’t settle for anything less than your passion and your belief.
Beyoncé’s most popular weave interpretations can be viewed at www.Mlineexquisite.com
