Challenging the Gender Norms in the Salon Industry

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the transformational journey of Rachel Daly, the trailblazing co-founder of Cure Studios. Her remarkable journey from the world of cosmetology and makeup to revolutionizing the nail salon industry with her unique business model is a testament to the power of innovation and inclusivity in the salon industry.

Rachel began her career in the beauty industry, specifically in makeup artistry, where she found satisfaction in helping people feel confident and beautiful. This led her to pivot into the tech industry, working for an on-demand personal styling tech company, Stitch Fix. Here, she combined her love for personal care with her passion for technology. It was her exposure to both these industries that eventually led her to establish Cure Studios, a nail salon that's breaking barriers and setting new standards in the industry.

One of the unique aspects of Cure Studios is its commitment to gender-neutral pricing. The salon industry, like many others, has long been guilty of unfair pricing structures based on gender. Rachel Daly challenges this norm by implementing a pricing model that does not discriminate between genders. She believes that services should be priced based on the time, effort, and materials used rather than the client's gender. This revolutionary approach is not just about fairness, but also about inclusivity, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Moreover, Cure Studios has taken the lead in adopting sustainable business practices. Rachel emphasizes the importance of reducing the salon's carbon footprint and environmental impact. Cure Studios is a waterless nail salon, a conscious choice made to save gallons of water typically used in traditional pedicure services. It’s a step towards environmental responsibility and contributes to the overall sustainability of the salon industry.

A significant part of the conversation revolves around gender inclusion in salons. Rachel shares her insights on creating safe spaces for clients to express their authentic selves. Inclusivity is a core value at Cure Studios, and Rachel discusses the importance of educating the salon staff about gender sensitivities. She emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding when dealing with clients, as well as the courage it takes to be authentic.

Rachel’s work at Boulevard, a client experience platform for appointment-based self-care businesses, complements her role at Cure Studios. At Boulevard, she helps new salons successfully launch with the platform and ensures a smooth transition for them. Rachel's expertise in tech and her passion for the salon industry has allowed her to contribute significantly to both her roles.

The podcast episode ends with a powerful message about reshaping the salon industry. Rachel urges listeners to challenge their thinking and find inspiration to innovate in their own industries. It's about shifting paradigms, breaking norms, and emphasizing the power of authenticity. This episode serves as a beacon for those looking to innovate and bring about meaningful changes in their respective industries.

In conclusion, Rachel Daly’s journey is a powerful reminder that innovation and inclusivity can revolutionize industries. Her efforts in transforming the salon industry, from challenging gender norms to implementing sustainable practices, demonstrate the power of change and the importance of inclusion in every aspect of business.