Erica Nicole: Owner of Dual Functions Hair Gallery

Erica has been the owner operator of Dual Functions Hair Gallery, and is one of the most sought after hair stylists in Dallas. “I’ve worked with some of the best in the industry,” says Erica. She has been in this line of work for over 17 years and states that, “this is actually a God-given gift for me. I began braiding at the age of six." Other than required classes for licensing, Erica hasn’t taken any formal training classes. She has always had an eye for hair, make up, and fashion. As part of her business name she chose the word gallery over salon because she thinks of hair as art and something very creative.

She never anticipated owning her own salon. She describes herself as being sort of “pushed” into entrepreneurship. Yet, as she tells her story of small business success, the push bears a strong resemblance to a leap of faith. During the first year it was just her and another stylist. Then her business started growing rapidly. She credits the growth to the "love of the gift that God has given her." Her clients have picked up on this love and now patronize her salon because of the exceptional experiences. Between the ambience and the tremendous work, Erica has created a winning combination.

At Dual Functions, “you feel the love, because my motto is everybody is somebody. There is a star in all of us. I do unto others, as I would have them do unto me. That’s just how I operate period.” By taking a personal interest in clients, Erica is able to determine what will help a person to be just as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside. She creates styles that go with a client's face and lifestyle, "a unique something just for them. Something really hot."

“I like to encourage women to shine from the outside in just as they shine from the inside out.” So what is her advice on developing a niche? “Just be yourself. My business thrives on my personality. It’s just natural for me. You won’t make it without discipline and self-determination. This is my passion. Without discipline, passion and determination a person can’t survive in this industry.”

"The stylists I choose to work with is based on their attitudes and work ethic.You show me your friends and you show me your future. You have to have a very positive attitude because it will determine aptitude,” is what Erica believes. For those looking to start a similar business Erica says, “You have to step out on faith. That’s my biggest thing.”