This week, we recognize Chamber member Total Beauty Care Salon, a hair salon and boutique owned by Josephine Gilmore.
Gilmore opened Total Beauty Care Salon in 1988 at 22501 Emery Road in Warrensville Heights, and it still stands there today. Gilmore opened the shop while she was a cosmetology instructor at Hudson High School. Her husband pointed out a gas station at the corner of Emery and Granada and said she should open her own business.
Trying to start a small black-owned business in the 80s had its challenges for Gilmore. At first, she ran into issues trying to open her shop. Even though she had done all of her paperwork and checked it again and again, the local government would not allow her to open the salon. After some due diligence by her attorney, they hit a turning point and she was able to open her business.
In terms of how she’s been able to stay open for more than 30 years, Gilmore says it’s important to get the word out about your business however you can. She is grateful for her loyal customers.
“It’s important to advertise, and I haven’t done as much marketing as I should,” she says. “You have your customers and word of mouth, and those repeat customers that build the business. We also add on services. We have a small boutique and then they can buy some little things. Also tried to do added service.”
Total Beauty Care Salon specializes in hairstyling, weaving, relaxers, and color. The shop also houses a small boutique with special pieces of jewelry and trinkets. Customers can also request basic manicures, pedicures, and facials. Repeat customers accumulate points with their purchases and receive discounts with continued services.
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