Meet Taliia Matthews of Studio 908 Hair Salon in Gardena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Taliia Matthews.

Taliia, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I come from a family of hairstylists, so I guess you can say it’s a family trait. From a young age, I can remember styling my dolls’, sisters’, cousins’ and friends’ hair. I appreciate them all for being my guinea pigs (lol). I have a distinct memory of visiting the salon where my Aunt worked. My mom would go there to get her hair done. Just walking in the door, from the sound of the curlers clicking to the smell of burning hair and hair products and of course the salon talk. I felt at home in that salon and that’s when I knew that I had found my passion.

Fast forward to February 2001, I enrolled in the Healthy Hair Academy located in Inglewood, CA. Being in that program allowed me to be around people from different backgrounds and it all fascinated me. I was the youngest person enrolled in the class at the time. I enjoyed learning new techniques and receiving advice from my classmates. Throughout the course of enrollment, I had all the drive that I needed to stay focused and complete my goal. After finishing the program, we were all required to take the state board test. The test required a $75 exam fee. At the time, things were tight and I did not have the money to pay for the test. I did not know what I was going to do to pay for the exam. I mentioned my dilemma to my friend and classmate, Alicia.

Soon after she shared my story with her boyfriend at the time, and he graciously gave me a check for $75. Her boyfriend was late actor, Michael Clark Duncan. I was so thankful. All I could tell him was: “Thank you! I will not let you down.” Honestly, if it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have been able to take the state test and earn my cosmetology license. This year will make 17 years as a licensed hairstylist.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No. It has not been a smooth road. I have made many sacrifices to be where I am today. From staying with family members and friends, sleeping on floors in sleeping bags and living out of a duffel bag. There were even some nights that I slept in my car so I wouldn’t be a burden to anyone. Opening my salon provided much discipline. I had a goal and I told myself the next salon that I work in will be one that I own. I eventually opened my salon in 2010 with my own money, no loan, no handouts. I started my business with roughly $15k that I had saved. I don’t even know how I did that. I remember pushing forward with my goal and didn’t concern myself with how I going to save the money. I just went for it. There were so many unknown variables. Will another stylist even want to work in my salon? How would pay the rent each month?

I’m still amazed with it all today! But there have also been many days that I wanted to close or sell the salon. Things get tough and there are so many emotions that come along with running a business. Then I remind myself that this is my heart. This is my baby and I have invested so much into it. I wouldn’t have wanted to do it any other way.

And if you are wondering how the salon got its name, 9/08 is my birthday.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Studio 908 Hair Salon – what should we know?
Studio 908 Hair salon specializes in maintaining healthy hair, weaving, braiding, natural and thermal hairstyles, lashes and many other services. I’m proud to say that the salon has been open for nine years and counting. Many people doubted my vision and didn’t think I would make it past the two years mark! I am also proud and excited about the launch of my own hair care products and hair extensions which were introduced earlier this year. Everyone should try them out! What sets us apart is when you come into studio 908, you get a great atmosphere, a professional team of talented stylists and great customer service.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I give all credit to my ENTIRE FAMILY! FCF

From my mom, dad, sisters, cousins, extended family, friends, clients. You all know who you are.

Pricing:

• Basic Service $60
• Hair Extensions  $75 and up
• Edge Tamer $12

Contact Info:

• Address: Studio 908 Hair Salon
  14610 Crenshaw Blvd
  Gardena,CA 90249
• Website: www.studio-908.com
• Phone: 310538-4776
• Instagram: @studio908hairsalon
• Facebook: @studio908hairsalon

Image Credit:
@nea_nabayan

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