Meet PaTrice Michelle | The Hair Charmer, Textured Hair Specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with PaTrice Michelle and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi PaTrice, how do you think about risk?
I remember as a small child dreaming about being a hairstylist. One of my favorite places to hang out was the salon. As a child, innocent to the “facts of life” dreaming is essential and when you don’t cultivate your dreams, they have the potential of dying. Risks, in my mind and by definition, is the possibility of “a situation involving exposure to danger”. Starting your own business or being in a service industry, especially in today’s times are very risky! I did not start my adult life risking it all and going after my dreams. I followed the path taught to me by my parents. Finish High school, go to college, get a degree, find a great paying job with a good company, and save. Where in that sentence do you hear “follow your dreams”? Unhappy and miserable in my fabulous career with my two college degrees, I yearned for something greater. It wasn’t until my 30th birthday that I threw everything conventional out of the window. I started Cosmetology school and I felt like one of the oldest people in my class. It took me three years to finish an eighteen month program because I was afraid of the risk, until the day that I woke up and remembered a quote from my favorite movie, Coming to America, “Go on Honey, take a CHANCE!” and that is the way I began living my life. I started operating in a way that felt crazy, leaving everything that was conventional behind and risking it all. I didn’t plan to start my own business initially, I was going to work in someone’s salon, as an assistant, and learn first. However, I felt forced to start my own business and booth rent, after my initial job fell through. Now, I understand it was my purpose and I wasn’t supposed to be an assistant. Everything in life happens for a reason. I never knew what walking in your purpose looked like until I was brave enough to take the risk. I now think of risks as taking a CHANCE – when you follow the wishes of your heart, it works! You make it happen and everything falls into place. Less than five years into the business, I’m a well sought-after hairstylist with over 150 clients in over five different states. In the past four years, I have outgrown two salons and now, despite the pandemic, I’m opening my very own salon this year. I wake up every day doing something that makes me feel amazing. I provide services to others, helping make them look fabulous in ways that nurture and feed their soul.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I own a salon specializing in textured hair. From creative styles for a runway, to an everyday look to locs. I love teaching people how to love their naturally curly, wavy, or locked tresses. What sets me apart is that I tailor each appointment to fit my individual clients needs with the utmost of care and passion. Your crown is my canvas. I am the GPS you are the driver; I teach you how to care and how to reach the goals for your hair after the salon visit is over. I am the most proud of my clients, they support my business like no other. I’m so very grateful. They tell their friends, strangers they meet, and everyone about me. It feels so great to have your work speak for itself, but even better when my clients share their appreciation.

I am, dedication, preparation, and consistency. I am a sponge learning and growing every day. I have created essential business relationships and I have mentors who help guide me. Overcoming my “I can do this by myself” thinking was one of the biggest challenges for me. Learning to ask for help is something that I had to challenge myself to do. Hey. this journey has not been easy and I’m just getting started. I’ve learned lessons about hitting rock bottom and rising like a Phoenix out of the ashes. Starting over and rebranding and being willing to listen, along with being dedicated and consistent to my heart’s desires, is how I overcame many of my challenges. I want the world to know that I’m following my purpose — my life’s destiny. I didn’t choose my profession, I was chosen and I’m going to show up and show out every day, every time. I’m still learning and understanding this industry, and this is the beginning of something epic.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
OMG where do I start?! So, if they are arriving midday to early evening, we would head to Grapevine Bar for happy hour. It’s my favorite bar ever! I love the outdoors and the decor, and they have the cutest music and the best company for a great time or intimate conversation to catch up. We would definitely visit Deep Ellum and hang out on the rooftop at Stirr, their flat bread pizza is A-M-A-Zing, plus they have great city views. Afterwards catch a live band or two, or bar hop around to check out all the DJs!! Can’t forget to stop at Revolver Taco before the night is over, they have mouthwatering tacos. Can you tell I’m a foodie?! The next morning we would stop at my favorite coffee shop in Deep Ellum, Le Bon temps for beignets, I swear they are better than Cafe Du Monde! Afterwards, we would walk around and look at the art culture and take pictures. One day during the week we would definitely have lunch at True Kitchen & Kocktails in downtown Dallas. Then, have a relaxing spa day at Spa Castle. I would definitely reserve an evening for dinner at Pangea, their seafood pasta is mouthwatering! We would definitely have coffee at Soiree Cafe on a weekend in hopes that Bruchaholics is featured there for Brunch, their food is the absolute best. Afterwards, we would take a walk on Margret Hunt Bridge for photo opportunities galore. It’s my absolute favorite view of the city. On Saturday afternoon, we would definitely catch the market in Deep Ellum and Saturday night The Daquiri Shoppe in Carrollton or Grand Praire, both are awesome and the chicken, oh my goodness! While I’m on wings, I can’t forget OT Tavern and their wings and hookah! On Thursday evening we would visit Chocolate Secrets off Oaklawn for wine and chocolate while enjoying their poetry night. They are definitely a great turn up vibe! We would definitely catch a movie on the Rooftop that Rooftop Cinema provides and walk though trails at Turtle Creek. I wouldn’t let my friend leave without yoga in Kylde Warren Park. I can’t forget the reserve in Richardson it doesn’t seem like you’re in the city at all. Let’s not disrespect Dallas’ best food — Burgers. I would definitely take her to Snuffers, their burgers are the best I’ve had in the city. There is so much to see and do in Dallas, it’s so amazing! I love this city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First let me thank my Creator who is the lead of my life and the center of my being. Thank you to My support system: My son Nick, my partner and my family who have always been my biggest cheerleaders. My clients that are excited and have have been growing with me. My mentor Ms Karen Scott for encouraging me and introducing me to my coach Britt Seva, who is the owner of Thriver’s Society! She has been my business teacher and helping me grow into the best business owner who I can be. My Thriver’s group is everything. I could go on and on with my list of supporters because everyone in my life deserves recognition.

Website: www.thehaircharmer.com

Instagram: TheHairCharmer

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehaircharmer

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-hair-charmer-dallas

Image Credits
Miss Ari Photography Thadd J Photography