Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Francis
Joe, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
At age 11, my journey into the world of hairstyling began as I started working in a barber shop and experimenting with color on my own hair. When I was 16, my cousin opened a women’s salon, and I eagerly joined him on weekends while studying hotel management. Captivated by the artistry of women’s hair styling, I soon realized my true passion lay in cosmetology. By my second year in hotel management, I made the decision to switch fields and pursue a career as a hairstylist. I honed my skills in Lebanon before moving to Dubai in 2012, where I styled hair for high-end fashion shows and continued my work in salons. My life took a new turn in 2014 when I met my wife, who was also working in Dubai. After marrying in 2018, we moved to New York, her hometown, where I began building my clientele in 2019. In 2022, I took a significant step forward by renting a chair in a salon setting, and this summer, I proudly expanded my venture by opening my own salon suite.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to becoming a successful hairstylist and master colorist has certainly been filled with its share of challenges. Moving from Lebanon to Dubai, I had to adapt to new markets and styles, all while establishing myself in a highly competitive industry. The transition also involved understanding the diverse cultural backgrounds of clients, which influenced their style choices.
Moving from the Middle East to the USA was a significant cultural shift. The difference in lifestyle, social norms, and even the approach to hairstyling were profound. In Lebanon and Dubai, I communicated mostly in my native language Arabic and was accustomed to a vibrant, high-end fashion scene. While in New York, the pace was fast, and the diversity of styles and clients offered a new set of opportunities and challenges. Particularly, building a clientele from scratch in an entirely new city. Establishing a presence in such a competitive market required persistence and adaptability. Additionally, improving my English language skills was crucial for effectively communicating with clients and colleagues, as well as for networking and marketing myself. Despite the initial difficulties, this cultural shift has enriched my experience and broadened my perspective, allowing me to bring a unique blend of styles and techniques to my work. Navigating these challenges demanded resilience and a proactive approach, but overcoming them has been a rewarding part of my journey, contributing significantly to my growth as a hairstylist and professional.
Starting my own business in 2022 was a significant leap, and managing the logistics and responsibilities of running a salon suite added another layer of complexity. Despite these challenges, each obstacle has been a learning experience, contributing to my growth and resilience in the industry.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a master colorist specializing in custom color, I excel at crafting unique, personalized hues that best suit each client’s individual needs. This specialization enables me to tailor color choices to not only enhance my clients’ appearance but also align with their hair quality and lifestyle. In addition to my work as a colorist, I am passionate about education and take great joy in sharing my knowledge with other stylists. By teaching and mentoring, I contribute to the professional growth of my peers and help elevate industry standards.
I am most proud of the progress I have made in my professional life but also my personal life. I moved to a new country, started a family and continue to build my brand, Joe Francis Hair.
What sets me apart is my extensive experience across different cultures and markets—from Lebanon to Dubai to New York which has broadened my perspective and versatility. This global experience enables me to bring a unique blend of styles and techniques to my work, offering clients an exceptional level of creativity and professionalism. As a hairstylist, I believe that building strong, trusting relationships with my clients is just as important as mastering my craft. I make it a priority to take the time to listen to their needs and preferences, ensuring they feel valued and understood. By fostering genuine connections and creating a welcoming atmosphere, I strive to make every visit a truly personalized experience.
How do you define success?
Success is a combination of personal achievement with professional fulfillment. It is about finding balance and satisfaction in work and life. It’s about personal growth- continuously learning, evolving, and staying passionate about my craft.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @joefrancis_
