It’s a bird, it’s a plane! … No, it’s a Hairstylist! by Phenix Founder and President Gina Rivera

Hear that school bell? Away we go!
Not sure that I’m ready. This has been a fantastic summer, beginning with a huge success at the Phenix Family Reunion, days at the beach, great times with my husband, Jason, and sons, Phenix and Priest James.
Oh, well! A couple hair clips and we’re off and running. Up at 6, captain the carpool, bake the brownies, coach the teams … in addition to running our salons!

Gina Rivera and teen son Phenix

How do we do it? It’s a mixed blessing to own a business. We call the shots, but ultimately we’re responsible for everything. Rarely, is there anyone else to blame. I think, though, that if we get a few key basics under control, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.
Most of us have been through this rodeo, but let’s review:
• Start adjusting your schedule now. Move appointments (as much as you can) to school hours. Leave time to pick up your kids at the curb. This is one clear advantage of owning a salon – we set our hours!
• If you haven’t already, look into after-school care if you need to work during those hours. Most of us will need to work some days after school – try to keep it consistent. Sometimes grandparents and other family can help with this.
• Be alert to pitfalls. Even Wonder Woman could snag a cape on this treadmill. We have flexibility, but still need to bill the hours. That sounds so obvious but a great exercise is to figure out how many appointments you need to cover all your expenses. Keep an eye on the bottom line and don’t be caught short.
• Most schools provide a calendar of special events for the semester. Take time to mark events that you want to attend on your work calendar.
• Be watchful of stress. Changing schedules, balancing work and family life can be a serious pain. Even success can be stressful. Kids don’t know what you’ve been through so be careful around them when you’re
in a bad mood.
• Think about how you would handle a call from school about a sick kid. It’ll happen while you’re at work.
Life can get so busy and, as much as we plan and organize, it never stays the same. That’s particularly the case when kids are involved, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Love change.