Going to the hairdresser can be a nerve-wracking experience for some. From selecting the right cut to choosing the perfect color, there’s a lot to consider. To help you navigate the world of hair and beauty, we spoke with Rhia Rebel, the owner of Little Rebel Barbershop, about how she has managed to break boundaries and create a successful business in the male-dominated hairstyling industry. In this article, we’ll cover Rebel’s history, business strategies, and advice for budding entrepreneurs.
Who is Rhia Rebel?
Rhia Rebel is the founder and owner of Little Rebel, a barbershop located in Melbourne, Australia. Rebel has a unique perspective on hairstyling, having worked in the industry for several years as a non-binary person. Rebel’s passion for creating a space where gender norms are not reinforced led to the creation of Little Rebel, a business that celebrates individuality and promotes equality. Rebel’s dedication to her customers and staff has earned her the reputation of being a boundary-pusher and a rule-breaker in the hairstyling industry.
The Inspiration for Little Rebel
Rebel’s inspiration for Little Rebel was rooted in her experiences as a non-binary person in a gender-binary world. The hair and beauty industry traditionally reinforce binary gender norms, which can be isolating for individuals who do not conform to these expectations. Little Rebel was created with the aim of breaking down these barriers and creating a space where everyone is accepted, regardless of their gender identity or expression. Rebel’s unique approach to hairstyling has attracted a loyal following of customers who appreciate Little Rebel’s inclusivity and dedication to equality.
Running a Business
Running a business can be challenging, and Rebel has faced her fair share of difficult moments. The Covid-19 lockdowns in Melbourne were exceptionally challenging for Little Rebel as the business had to shut down for an extended period. Despite this, Rebel remained committed to her customers and staff, and her unwavering dedication has allowed Little Rebel to thrive. Rebel’s advice for budding entrepreneurs is to think with their hearts, trust their instincts, and enjoy the ride.
Tools for Running a Business
Rebel uses several apps to help manage her business, including rosters and daily sales reports. Square is one of the tools Rebel uses to log in from multiple devices to access previous sales transactions. Having the right tools is essential for business success, and Rebel’s choice of apps has helped her streamline her operations.
Making Mistakes
One of the lessons Rebel has learned as a business owner is the importance of delegating tasks. Rebel initially tried to do everything herself, which ultimately led to burnout. As Rebel learned, running a business requires a team effort, and it’s essential to delegate tasks to avoid overworking oneself.
The Future of Little Rebel
Rebel hopes that Little Rebel will continue to inspire others and collaborate with like-minded people over the next few years. Breaking down gender binaries is a crucial part of making the world a more balanced and equal place. Rebel’s dedication to this cause puts Little Rebel in a unique position to promote change and equality.
Creating a Cool and Inclusive Business
Rebel’s approach to business is one that puts inclusion at the forefront. Rebel’s advice for creating a cool and inclusive business is to keep up with the “dad jokes,” maintain open communication, and prioritize mutual respect and personal boundaries.
Tips for Customers
As a hairstylist, Rebel’s top tip for customers is to communicate with their hairstylist about what makes their trip to the salon more comfortable. Hairstylists love to gossip, and Rebel’s team is no exception. But respecting clients’ wishes and personal space is crucial to maintaining a positive relationship.
Final Thoughts
Rhia Rebel’s journey to creating Little Rebel is one of perseverance, dedication, and inclusivity. Rebel’s advice for budding entrepreneurs is to trust their instincts, delegate tasks, and embrace the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial journey. The world needs more businesses like Little Rebel that prioritize individuality, inclusivity, and equality.
