1. Tell us about your journey from Biomedical Engineering to becoming an entrepreneur in the beauty industry.
After completing my Master's in Biomedical Engineering in the U.S., I worked in the field for a few years, gaining valuable technical and analytical skills. However, I always had a strong passion for beauty and entrepreneurship. When I returned to India, I noticed a growing demand for high-quality beauty services that met international standards. Toni & Guy, with its reputation for excellence, felt like the perfect fit.
Opening a Toni & Guy franchise gave me the opportunity to create a space where clients could experience transformation and feel confident. My background in engineering has taught me to approach every aspect of the business with precision, attention to detail, and a systematic mindset—skills that have been invaluable in running a successful salon. It’s been a rewarding journey from the world of science to beauty, and I’m grateful to have combined both to provide an exceptional experience for my clients.
2. What strategies do you use to manage and maintain quality across your three Toni & Guy salons?
Maintaining consistency and quality across my three salons requires a structured approach with a strong emphasis on training and communication. We prioritize ongoing training from Toni & Guy experts to ensure our team is up-to-date with the latest trends, techniques, and brand standards. This investment in skill development ensures that our services remain top-notch.
I also conduct regular audits of each salon, visiting them routinely to assess everything from cleanliness and ambiance to customer service and technical skills. This hands-on approach helps me identify any areas of improvement quickly.
Open communication with my team is key to maintaining quality. We have regular team meetings to discuss client feedback, share challenges, and explore opportunities for improvement. Creating a supportive work environment motivates my team to perform at their best, ensuring a consistent, high-quality experience for our clients.
3. How do you balance running a business with being a mom, and what life lessons has your daughter taught you?
Balancing the demands of running a business and being a mom is never easy—it’s a constant juggle. It’s taught me resilience and flexibility. Both roles require my full attention, so I’ve learned to prioritize my time and stay present in each moment.
My daughter has taught me invaluable lessons, especially the importance of curiosity, joy, and patience in everyday life. While it’s not always easy to maintain a work-life balance, being a mom has made me more grounded and motivated. This energy flows into my business, helping me tackle challenges with a renewed sense of purpose.
4. How has CrossFit influenced your approach to business and personal challenges?
CrossFit has had a profound impact on my mindset, both in business and in life. It’s taught me to push past my limits and embrace discomfort—growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones, whether in the gym or in entrepreneurship.
Running a business, like CrossFit, comes with its challenges and setbacks. The mental toughness and perseverance I’ve developed through CrossFit have helped me face business obstacles head-on and keep moving forward. I also value the sense of community in CrossFit, which has inspired me to foster a team-driven, supportive culture in my salons. The grit and resilience I’ve cultivated through CrossFit are qualities I carry into every aspect of my life.
5. Does your background in Biomedical Engineering impact how you run your salons or view the beauty industry?
Absolutely. My background in Biomedical Engineering has equipped me with a keen attention to detail and a scientific approach to problem-solving, which I apply to every facet of my business. Having a foundation in science also makes me acutely aware of the importance of hygiene, skin health, and safe practices—critical elements in the beauty industry.
This scientific mindset drives me to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness in my salons and to educate my team on the importance of safe, effective beauty practices. My engineering background has provided a unique perspective, allowing me to approach the beauty industry with professionalism and precision.
6. What’s your top advice for women entrepreneurs entering the beauty and wellness sector?
My top advice for women entering the beauty and wellness sector is to start with a clear vision and stay committed to it. The industry is constantly evolving, but having a strong sense of purpose will help you navigate trends while staying true to your brand’s core values.
Don’t be afraid to take risks and innovate. Clients appreciate authenticity, so focus on creating an experience that stands out. Building a reliable, skilled team is also essential—invest in training, lead by example, and foster a positive work culture where everyone feels valued.
As a woman in business, trust your instincts and remember that resilience is key. Challenges are inevitable, but they’re also opportunities to grow and improve. Finally, prioritize self-care—your well-being is crucial for running a successful and sustainable business.
7. How do you stay motivated and continue growing in both your business and fitness journeys?
This is a tough question because, honestly, I don’t know how else to be. Both my business and my fitness routine come naturally to me at this point. While I do have my tough days, I always manage to bounce back.
For me, staying motivated isn’t a constant struggle—it’s about truly enjoying what I do. Whether it’s running my salons or training at CrossFit, I’m passionate about both, and that passion fuels my drive. I’ve reached a point where both work and fitness are integral parts of my life, and I couldn’t imagine functioning without them.
8. Any future plans or dreams, either for expanding your business or personal pursuits, you’re excited about?
I’m definitely considering expanding my Toni & Guy presence by opening more outlets. The demand for high-quality, international-standard beauty services in India continues to grow, and I’m excited about the potential for growth.
On a personal level, I’m also exploring a professional path in fitness. Having been dedicated to my own fitness journey for years, I’m inspired to deepen my knowledge and possibly pursue certification in fitness training. I’m excited to see where this path takes me, both personally and professionally.
Bio:
Shraddha S. is a 34-year-old entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast based in Indore, India. She holds a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from Cleveland State University, Ohio, USA. Shraddha owns and manages three Toni & Guy franchise salons—two in Indore and one in Raipur. Alongside her business ventures, she is passionate about fitness and has been dedicated to CrossFit for the past four years. She is also a proud mother to a four-year-old daughter.
Interviewed by: Shantanu Singh
Edited by: Mishika Goel
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