The Power of Relationships in the Beauty Industry
A Love Letter to Hair Central Beauty Supply
In the beauty industry, margins matter. We all want to stretch our dollars, save where we can, and maximize profits. It's not uncommon to skip the middleman and head straight to a distributor to get those tempting wholesale prices. And sure—there’s a time and place for that. But let me be clear: when it comes to the heart of doing business, relationships are the real currency.
This blog is a tribute. A shout-out. A sincere thank you to a place that makes my business not just possible—but better.
Hair Central Beauty Supply, located at Orange and Artesia in Long Beach, California, is more than just a store. It’s a cornerstone of my professional journey and a beautiful example of what happens when a business not only serves a community—but becomes part of it.
Yes, I could save a few bucks going directly to distributors. And sure, sometimes I do for specific items. But over the years, I’ve realized that Hair Central offers something no wholesale site or faceless supplier could ever give me: connection, care, and community.
The owner June—a Korean man with a deep respect for the people he serves—understands the value of representation. He has intentionally staffed his store with incredible women of color: African-American women, a Salvadorian woman—all who know beauty, know products, and know how to treat people. And let me tell you, the service is unmatched.
They don’t just ring up sales. They know me. They know my work, the products I swear by, and they treat my clients like family when I send them in. Need to grab the right shampoo? They’ve got it pulled. Confused about a curl cream? They’ll point you to the one I use. That kind of personal care is priceless.
Let me take a second to give flowers where they are truly due:
Jasmine. Shakia. Cindy. These ladies are the soul of that store. They don’t just make Hair Central run smoothly—they make my business run more smoothly. I’m not exaggerating when I say that their diligence, kindness, and support have helped me grow and thrive in ways I never imagined.
And it’s not just business—it’s love. The gratitude they show for our patronage, the genuine community they’ve built, and the everyday kindness they extend is something we don’t talk about enough in the world of entrepreneurship.
This is a call to action. If you’re in Long Beach—or even passing through—go support Hair Central Beauty Supply. Let them know Ashley sent you. Not because I get a kickback (I don’t), but because supporting businesses that support us matters.
When we build with each other, uplift one another, and stay rooted in community, we all win. Sometimes the savings isn't just in dollars—it’s in trust, respect, and reliability.
So here's to Hair Central, a quiet pillar in our community, and the reminder that relationships are worth more than money. They’re what make the beauty industry truly beautiful.
—Ashley Brown, Pro Stylist