Today we’d like to introduce you to Claudia Saunders
Hi Claudia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Its been 14 years! Wow! Well technically longer. I started with hair in high school. I did my own color and relaxer and of course I had to hook up my best friend. We both came from times where having your hair done in a salon was a luxury our families couldn’t quite obtain…yet! I began working as an assistant at the salon where my mother got her hair done which was a predominantly Hispanic salon. I had only had experience with African American hair types. I immediately fell in love with the staff and salon culture. They taught me about high end tools and products. I was treated like family. No one held back with teaching me tips and tricks. I finished obtaining my cosmetology license while assisting and once that was completed, I set out to build a clientele of my own. Two years later, I went back to school to get my instructor license and began teaching at hair schools. I absolutely loved the relationships I was building with women who wanted more. I adored their drive while facing so many adversities. It reminded me of my own struggles and I wanted to show them life on the other side. I wanted to give hope on why to keep going even though right now times are tough.
I also began working with women who suffer from hair loss. It started with my mother going though chemo after being diagnosed with breast cancer. I created huma hair wigs that are comfortable on a tender scalp and also look good. This part of my career has to be my favorite! Restoring hope and beauty to women who suffer from hair loss is such a joyous feeling.
Seven years later, I opened my own salon downtown San Antonio baby! and God has truly blessed me!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It absolutely hasn’t been the smoothest road lol…but come on now thats where the character is built. I struggles with finding my location. Many of buildings that I was interested in didn’t want salons because of the plumbing that would be required. I will say that once I found my spot it was smooth, almost like yeaaa this was meant for me!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am the proud owner of The Beauty Lounge hair salon. This is where I also serve my clientele. My team and I specialize in hair extensions, natural hair care, and braids. A few things set us apart like the fact that we are considered a black hair salon but we serve ALL hair types. We have clients from all races and we are honored to be trusted by all. Many salons tend to target one specific clientele.
We also have customer service that is unmatched. Salons that I grew up in or heard about barely want to speak when you walk in. We treat every client with love as we greet them with big friendly energy. We have created such a strong family culture. That is something I am proud of.
I think my biggest flex is my team! These chicks are some of the most genuine group of ladies you’ll find. I have worked diligently to make sure that I hire women who share the same values and goals not to mention their talent and these women just get it!
Any big plans?
I would love to expand to a bigger location and offer more services like esthetician services and maybe nail services.
I also would love to teach again but this time in my salon!
Also expanding my beauty line which consists of luxury hair extensions and hair accessories.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thebella29.com
- Instagram: thebella29lounge
- Facebook: The Beauty Lounge
