At 22, hairstylist opens own salon in San Carlos

If some question Patel’s experience and ability to run her own business, her confidence and determination to be her own boss dilutes any concern. While some of it is sheer grit, as described by her mother, a lot of Patel’s ability to succeed is thanks to the support she receives from loved ones, she said. 

Patel knew early in her life she wanted to have her own business, and this drove her to steer away from a conventional Silicon Valley post-high school graduation plan. 

Located at 1293 Laurel St., the hair salon has five resident hairstylists who specialize in luxury hair extensions and color, and also offer everyday styling and touchups as requested. Many of the other stylists in the shop are also in their early 20s, of which Patel is particularly proud. 

“It’s really awesome to have other younger stylists that have their own independent business,” Patel said. “It’s cool to show other girls and boys that come into the salon that you can have your passion without going through four years of schooling.” 

Although Patel is keenly aware and proud that she is a young entrepreneur, what she is most proud of is getting over the fear of her learning disability. 

When Patel was in elementary school, she was diagnosed with dyslexia and consistently struggled with her academics. 

“High school was the hardest four years of my life and I knew I didn’t want to do that all over again,” Patel said. 

Patel knew she was not interested in going to college, but that did not come without vocal opposition from those involved in her school life. While in high school, a counselor said Patel would “never own a nice bag,” let alone her own business, if she didn’t get a four-year degree. 

It was only when Patel’s own hairstylist recommended cosmetology school that a lightbulb went off in her head. The College of San Mateo’s cosmetology program caught Patel’s eye and she quickly fell in love after starting courses.

“I found my happy place doing hair,” Patel said. “I really loved doing hair and making people feel pretty.” 

“I was really worried about growing up and going into a workplace,” Patel said. “To be able to go back to those people that doubted me … it’s something that you can work through and figure out and you’re able to have a great career one day.” 

Although Patel didn’t initially consider pursuing the trades herself after high school, she was not unfamiliar with their viability. Both of Patel’s parents work in the trades and have owned their own businesses their entire careers. 

“I’ve grown up seeing how hard they worked and helping them do things as me and my sister got older,” Patel said. “I learned at a very young age how much it takes to run a business and how to do it.” 

Patel’s mother, Teresa Patel, said her daughter’s journey is a reminder that having grit is critical for young people to achieve their dreams. 

“It’s super humbling to know that there are kids that still want to do trades,” Teresa Patel said. “Your life isn’t over because you didn’t go to a four-year.” 

Patel took over the lease at the salon — locked in at a fortunate rate — and had just two weeks to flip the place from a boho chic vibe to a modern industrial aesthetic. 

Throughout the chaos, Patel said having her friends and family’s support was extremely helpful. 

Patel’s dyslexia still presents itself in her work as a hairstylist, whether it’s while she’s running her own social media page or updating her website, but throughout the entire process of opening her salon she has only grown more confident. 

“Being in the industry has helped me communicate better and work with people,” Patel said. “Actually, it’s my disability that has helped me push to be this great and get this far.”