Today we’d like to introduce you to Ralph Valadez.
Hi Ralph, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After spending 15 years in corporate jobs… Back in 2010, I decided to pursue running my own business in an effort to spend more time with the family, control my working hours, and pursue spiritual goals.
I received my specialized training for salon shears with the Sungold Group (out of California). I was able to learn from industry expert Jason Pintel the ins and outs of Japanese-style shear sharpening.
I established myself as a distributor for brands I believe to deliver the best quality for the best price. Including Above, Scissormall, Washi, and Washou. I pride myself on delivering the best customer experience.
I also believe in educating my clients on how to take care of their shears, and how to use them. So I offer free classes to Cosmetology students. In 2013, I added the ability to service the medical field. So today, I service hair salons, groomers, surgical centers, dermatologists, and OBGYNs.
Knife sharpening for residential customers is available (but not mobile). My wife Stephanie is my business partner and assists me sometimes on the road, and with my schedule planning. Each one of my children has spent time working with me on the road, and I hope one day they can continue the family business.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, it hasn’t always been smooth. When I first started my business it was a struggle in gaining clientele.
I started out lugging all my equipment, and shears in the back of my Toyota Avalon then set up at each salon. This was quite the challenge as I do have a bad back. And it wasn’t the most optimal use of time since it would limit the number of salons I was able to visit. I did that for 3 years.
Then in 2013, I decided to buy a used Dodge Sprinter which presented its own set of challenges. I didn’t have rear AC, and working in Texas summertime was brutal. It took me one year to save up for an AC. Then, I started having issues supplying enough power to the AC, which led to going thru several generators.
Then I started having problems with the Sprinter itself. In 2016, I decided to buy a new Ford Transit 150 which is the vehicle I currently drive today. It seems that the generator issue continued to be a source of the struggle between ones failing me. To one being stolen while on a trip and had to cancel my trip.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about The Sharper Edge, LLC?
I operate a family-owned business. I believe in treating people like I want to be treated and delivering the best service and best products.
I pride myself on delivering the best customer experience. I also believe in educating my clients on how to take care of their shears, and how to use them. So I offer free classes to Cosmetology students and hair salons.
In 2013, I added the ability to service the medical field. So today I service hair salons, groomers, surgical centers, dermatologists, and OBGYNs.
Knife sharpening for residential customers is available (but not mobile).
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have participated in Facebook groups that are for my profession.
Sometimes you get egos on there, but for the most part, I have found them helpful in answering some of my questions thru the years. I also have participated in additional paid training sessions with sharpening guilds.
I have met some great knowledgeable people at some of these events and have established friendships that cover different states.
Pricing:
- Salon Shears $40
- Grooming shears $30
- Medical tools vary from $12-$95
- clipper blade $12-$15
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tsedge.com
- Instagram: @thesharpedge
- Facebook: @thesharpedgetx
