I am happy to present to you our seventh local business spotlighted in the Pay it Forward feature – The Men’s Place.
Our recent Lake County business featured was Alexander Szeliga, owner of Sky Shop Autobody & Detailing, who chose to Pay it Forward to Marisol Fernandez, owner of The Men’s Place.
The catch is that I will not choose the next business to interview, but the current spotlighted business will choose who I will interview next. Local businesses will Pay it Forward.
The Men’s Place is a locally owned and operated barber shop that specializes in men’s hair. Marisol Fernandez is a licensed cosmetologist and barber, offering quality haircuts in Lake County, California. You can book appointments online and her positive ratings are through the roof with many repeat clients. Marisol provides a friendly, fast and convenient service. The Men’s Place is located in North Lakeport in the same shopping center as Chalerm Thai Bistro.
1. Why did you decide to start your own business?
I’ve always had this crazy dream to have my own salon one day, and in February 2015, I purchased the Men’s Place and turned that dream into a reality. It takes hard work, a lot of determination, and patience.
2. What advice would you give to someone just starting their own business?
Take the risk. Create a business plan and strategize. Stay focused on your goal. You will have hiccups along the way but don’t give up. Perseverance is key. You have to learn how to improvise your dreams. Never forget the power of social media and word of mouth. It will always take you to the next level.
3. What routines do you follow each day?
The first thing I do in the morning is take care of my puppy dog, Bando, who brings me so much joy in my life. Try my best to do an at-home workout to start the day off right. Having a big breakfast, prep meals, and snacks are very crucial for my routine; that way, I could have enough energy to be on my feet all day cutting hair.
4. Where do you see your business in five years? Ten?
That’s a really good question. I’ve been very lucky and blessed to be where I am now. I never would have imagined I would be in this position so soon in my career. I would definitely love to own my own building, where I can get more barber stations and continue to grow and expand.
5. How did you market your business when it was brand new?
Number one is word of mouth. Passing out my business cards, leaving one everywhere I went, from a coffee shop to dining in. Social media was always helpful, but nothing compares to what it is now.
6. If you could spend the day with anyone (living or who has passed on) who would it be and why?
First of all, I have an amazing foundation at home with my boyfriend, Daniel and our dog Bando. We go on crazy adventures together on the weekends. My parents are amazing humans who pushed me to be the best version of myself. To have a great work ethic and become an independent woman. My family isn’t perfect, but we uplift each other all the time and stay positive. I surround my life with positive, caring, workaholics, and overachievers in the hope that I will be one of them.
Marisol Fernandez
The Men’s Place Barber Shop
1863 N High Street, Lakeport, California 95453
(707) 263-4247
IG- the.mens.place
FB- The Men’s Place
Business Hours
Sunday & Monday- Closed
Tuesday & Wednesday- 10-6 pm
Thursday- 11-6 pm
Friday- 10-5:30 pm
Saturday- 9-2 pm
Marisol is Paying it Forward to Itzia Rico – the owner of Studebakers Coffee House & Deli.
Stay tuned for Studebakers Coffee House & Deli!
