Breaking Barriers in Columbia’s Beauty Industry
Sarah Brown has made history in Columbia, Missouri. She recently opened Beauty Trap, the city’s first Black-owned beauty supply store. Located at 3200 Penn Ter. Ste. 121, Beauty Trap offers hair, skin, and cosmetic products to the local community.
This groundbreaking venture arrives as the U.S. beauty industry projects $646.2 billion in revenue for the year. Brown’s store represents a significant step towards increased Black representation in this booming sector.
Beauty Trap is one of only two beauty supply stores currently operating in Columbia. Its opening marks a milestone for diversity in the local business landscape.
From Cosmetology to Entrepreneurship: Sarah Brown’s Journey
Brown’s path to owning Beauty Trap spans over two and a half decades. After high school, she immediately entered cosmetology school, specializing in hair care ever since.
Her entrepreneurial spirit isn’t new. Brown previously owned two salons in Columbia, overcoming pandemic-related challenges along the way. These experiences fueled her ambition to start her own product line and store.
“While we were closed, I was able to save my money wisely,” Brown explained. “It gave me the idea to start my own store and line of products.”
Mentorship and Community Support: Keys to Success
Brown credits her success to strong mentorship and community support. Mary Smith, owner of Mary Smith’s Beauty Salon, played a crucial role in Brown’s professional development.
“I taught Sarah how to do hair for Black customers, something they don’t teach you at school,” Smith shared. Their relationship exemplifies the power of knowledge-sharing within the industry.
The local community has rallied behind Beauty Trap. Brown has partnered with nearby salons to spread the word about her new venture, demonstrating the collaborative spirit of Columbia’s beauty sector.
Empowering the Next Generation: A Family Legacy
Brown’s vision extends beyond running a successful business. “My company’s mission is to mentor, uplift and encourage young African American girls,” she stated.
This commitment to empowerment is evident in Brown’s approach to family involvement. Her 8-year-old daughter, D’mmi, often helps at the store, learning valuable skills in hair styling and business management.
Brown also owns D’mmi-Stylez Beauty Bar, a salon named after her daughter. Located near Beauty Trap, it further cements her family’s presence in Columbia’s beauty industry.
Looking Ahead: Building a Sustainable Black-Owned Business
As Beauty Trap settles into its role in Columbia’s business community, Brown remains focused on its long-term impact. “Now my goal is to make this a family business,” she affirmed.
Brown emphasizes the importance of community reinvestment. “If we take our money and keep it in the community and spend it with each other, then we can build our dollars up,” she explained.
With its July 2nd grand opening behind it, Beauty Trap is poised to become a cornerstone of Columbia’s beauty industry. It stands as a testament to Brown’s perseverance and vision for a more inclusive business landscape.
