Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Tomczyk.
Hi Amanda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The Story of Verbena Salon
For more than twenty years, opening a salon was my dream.
I started my journey as a single mother, working two jobs while putting myself through cosmetology school. After years behind the chair and later returning to teach at the very school where it all began, I learned what it truly means to build a career rooted in passion, resilience, and community.
Finding the right home for Verbena took patience — over a year of searching before I discovered the perfect space. Then came the transformation: walls painted, floors replaced, dreams coming to life piece by piece. Through it all, my sister was by my side. She was my encourager, my voice of reason, my webmaster and financial sounding board. She even gifted me the flooring that now covers our salon — a daily reminder of her love and belief in me.
I named the salon Verbena in her honor.
She passed away in November of last year, but her spirit lives here — in every conversation, every laugh, every connection that happens within these walls.
As she and I had always envisioned, Verbena Salon continues to grow into something even more meaningful. This year, we’ll be launching a podcast, “The Everyday Stylist,” and hosting monthly women’s brunches for anyone — new to the area or simply looking for connection — who wants to find friendship and belonging.
I’m grateful every single day for this space, this community, and the dream my sister helped me bring to life. Verbena will always be for her, and through it, her memory will continue to bloom for years to come.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Struggles After Opening
Even after the doors to Verbena Salon officially opened, the challenges didn’t stop. The first two years of business have been full of lessons that no amount of planning could have prepared me for.
In the beginning, every day felt like a balancing act — trying to grow a new business while still being behind the chair, managing clients, handling finances, marketing, and mentorship all at once. There’s no manual for how to do it all, and some days it felt like I was learning everything the hard way.
We’ve had our share of technical and maintenance issues too — plumbing problems that returned more than once, equipment breakdowns, and a few unpredictable disasters that threw off entire workdays. There were moments when I’d come in early just to clean up or fix something before the team arrived so no one else had to feel that stress.
Staffing and scheduling have also been growing pains. Like many small businesses, we’ve faced turnover, burnout, and the constant challenge of finding the right people who align with the culture and vision of Verbena. It’s taught me a lot about leadership — how to stay grounded and kind while still making hard decisions.
On a personal level, losing my sister — the namesake and heart behind Verbena — during this time has been my greatest emotional challenge. Trying to run a business while grieving has been heavy, but it’s also given everything deeper meaning. Keeping her memory alive through this space has helped me move forward on the hardest days.
These past two years have tested my endurance, my creativity, and my belief in myself. But they’ve also proven that Verbena isn’t just a salon — it’s a story of persistence, community, and love that continues to grow through every struggle.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
About My Work
I’m a hairstylist, salon owner, and educator with over two decades in the beauty industry. At Verbena Salon, I focus on color and haircutting, helping women find a look that feels effortless and true to who they are. I’ve always believed hair should reflect the person wearing it — not chase a trend.
After years of working behind the chair and teaching in various capacities, I opened Verbena to create a space that feels modern, feminine, and down-to-earth — a place where both stylists and guests can feel seen, supported, and inspired. I’m proud that Verbena has become more than just a salon. It’s a community built on kindness, authenticity, and growth.
What I’m most proud of is the environment we’ve created. Clients tell us they feel instantly at ease when they walk in. Stylists here support one another instead of competing — that’s something rare in this industry.
What sets me apart is my approach. I see beauty work as both artistry and connection. Whether I’m teaching, coloring, or cutting, my goal is to make people feel confident and capable — not just beautiful on the outside, but grounded and strong within themselves.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the small town feel of Conway. I can’t think of anything I don’t like
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.verbenasalonsc.com
- Instagram: verbena_salon.sc
