We had the good fortune of connecting with Chandler Hiott and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chandler, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business was driven by my passion for hair and the desire for creative freedom. I wanted to create a space where I could fully express my vision and provide a superior, personalized experience for my clients. Being my own boss allows me to make strategic decisions about services, pricing, and marketing, fostering potential growth and success. Recognizing a local market demand for a high-end boutique salon, I believed my skills and business plan could attract a loyal clientele. Additionally, the strong support from my family, friends, and mentors played a crucial role in encouraging me to take this leap towards professional growth and personal fulfillment. I wanted to bring the high end upscale salon environment to a small salon suite setting!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Method Hair Studio, I specialize in modern dimensional blondes and low-maintenance hair color, bringing a full-service salon experience to a suite environment. My clients enjoy an array of relaxing treatments, from luxurious scalp therapies to a full retail line they love, all while sipping a glass of bubbles. This consistency and attention to detail set my salon apart. I’m most proud of taking the leap to start my own business despite my fears, and I am excited about the future, including expanding into a full salon and launching an online education course for other stylists. The journey has been challenging, with many late nights and sacrifices, as cosmetologists face a 95% failure rate after school. One of my biggest challenges was finding balance, often working seven days a week to please clients and my previous salon. Eventually, I reclaimed my freedom by starting my own business. The most important lesson I’ve learned is that no dream is too big—if science hasn’t proven it impossible, it’s possible. At Method Hair Studio, our core value is to be methodical in everything we do, ensuring a meticulous approach to hairdressing and client experience. Future stylists at our studio will also be trained in this methodical way of working and living, embodying our brand’s commitment to excellence.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d Start our Charleston adventure with a morning visit to The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries. Stroll through the Historic District, admiring the beautiful architecture on King Street, the iconic Rainbow Row, and the picturesque Battery. Mid-morning, explore the Charleston City Market, browsing local crafts and unique souvenirs. For lunch, head to Leon’s Oyster Shop, a trendy spot known for its fresh seafood and Southern favorites like fried chicken sandwiches and oysters. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the art at the Gibbes Museum of Art before enjoying a mid-afternoon coffee break at Second State Coffee, famous for its artisanal drinks and cozy atmosphere. As evening approaches, relax at Waterfront Park, watching the sunset over Charleston Harbor. Dinner at Sorelle promises a memorable experience with its innovative dishes and craft cocktails. Finally, end your day with expertly crafted cocktails at The Gin Joint, a cozy, speakeasy-style bar with an ever-changing menu of unique drinks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My partner Anthony for always putting up with my crazy business ideas! And my business coaches, Jamie Sea and Nick Mirabella.

Website: https://www.methodhairstudio.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chandlerhiotthairstylist/

Image Credits
Alex Blake Photography

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