Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsey Moccio.
Hi Lindsey, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I originally started my journey in nursing before deciding to become a business owner. I specialized in Alzheimer’s for many years, which was my most rewarding job. I still have a full time client while running my business. I have my associates in applied science for medical assistance, certified nursing aide,dermatology technician, and CPR certified. One of the main reasons why I am successful today is because of my family, especially my grandmother. She was my biggest fan, supporter, and voice of reason. She supported me mentally and financially through school, all my wild dreams, and my big move to North Carolina almost 14 years ago. Every family has that one person that doesn’t know what they want to do, is indecisive and just kind of floating in limbo. My grandmother never stop believing in me and was always there for my successes .Three years ago, she passed at 94 after beating cancer a few months prior. Me seeing her ring that bell after completing treatment was one of my of my proudest moments and successes for her. A combination of her passing and working patient care during the pandemic, I needed a break for my mental health. I have always done hair on the side. I decided to take the risk. I knew it was gonna be hard without her guidance however I decided to leave my full-time job and run my business full-time. Owning my own business has brought me closer to my family. My son even makes his own shark teeth necklaces and donates half the proceeds to the local animal shelters. Today, I do a lot of vendor events, birthdays, and private events from Wilmington, N.C., to Myrtle Beach, S.C. And everything in between.
Let’s dig deeper into the story – has it been an easy path, and if not, what challenges have you overcome?
If I said it was an easy path, I would be lying. Starting a business with no prior experience has its challenges. I started with $300 I tucked away for a rainy day. I bought some products and started doing a lot of research about creating an LLC and making a profitable income. I took a few free online classes about “succeeding with your own company.” I taught myself web design and still learning, which was the most challenging. Finance is always a struggle for every business in today’s world. I had to learn how to budget correctly. Talk to the local community and write grant essays to help fund my LLC. The struggle, frustration and lack of sleep has been worth it because I worked extremely hard and have the drive to keep going. At the end of the day knowing I have done something to create a positive change is worth ALL the challenges I have faced to get here.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Tink-A-Belle Hair LLC started with just installing Fairy Hair. Some may need to learn what this product is. For those who don’t, Fairy Hair is silk tinsel tied on a single hair to the scalp. It was popular In the 80s. Then made a comeback in 2000, and now back again. What I am most proud of is the way I install the hair. Most artists have the same installation process—a single-strand hand tied to one strand of hair on the scalp. When researching and practicing, I noticed a pattern of clients’ concerns stating that the product did not last more than 24-72 hours.Some had great results lasting months at a time. l quickly realized The longevity of the product depends on the client’s hair type. Especially children who love fairy hair but because of their age, their hair sheds a lot quicker and more than the average adult. I discovered a method that works with any hair. Instead of one glitter strand, I tied 6 strands to a microbead, weave it into the hair, and secure it with a micro-bead and clamp it. This bead is reusable, if it slips down the hair as it grows, simply slide it to the root and secure it with beading pliers. The bead is insured to stay in the hair with low maintenance required. Also, since I use several sparkle strands on one bead to see the sparkle, it has become so popular I started adding colorful strands of hair that are also micro-beaded in.
We’d love to hear what you think about risk-taking.
My major risk was leaving my full-time job with benefits based on a dream is the biggest risk I have ever taken. My son and I are diagnosed ADHD and anxiety. Taking this risk would be detrimental to my spouse and child if I did not have a steady income coming in. Impulsive decision making is a huge part of ADHD. I am fortunate and blessed to have a partner that was willing to take a chance on me knowing my previous history of impulse and decision making. My son, the master of sporadic ideas totally loved and supported the idea. Secretly I know he enjoys walking around to the other vendors and getting things with the money he has earned. I also believe this helps his ADHD. At 9 he is learning how to set up shop, count money, putting himself out there by engaging with clients. He also keeps me sane with knock knock jokes and fun facts about animals. Without them and their support I probably would’ve never taken this risk. Lastly, my previous boss Dr. Crane and Dr Maxfield both have been an incredible support system.I have learned by example, Took what they have taught me, and made it into a dream come true. They are so successful today because of their own personal risk taking. I guess you could say I learned from the best.
Pricing:
- 15.or children
- 20.or adults
- 10.00 Feathers
- 10 .00 color extensions
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tinkabellehair.com
- Instagram: Wilmington_belle_hair
- Facebook: Wilmington_belle_hair
