After all the conversations about how too few Black people are involved in the beauty supply industry, we were glad to learn about Quintin and Megan Lathan. They own Beauty Plus, a beauty supply store in Baltimore.
SB: How did you both meet?
Megan: We met through Quintin’s cousin who was my co-worker at the time.
SB: How do you decide what products to carry in your store?
Quintin: A mixture of customer/professional stylist requests, social media, and different cosmetology industry publications.
SB: It has been said that it can be difficult for non Asian business owners in the beauty supply industry. What has you experience been?
Megan: Once our business was established, we had immediate access to most hair products. The only difficulty we had was with purchasing hair from certain hair companies.
SB: In what ways do you both have similar entrepreneurial traits and in what ways are you different as entrepreneurs?
Quintin: The number one trait we have in common is that we believe in good customer service and drive. We differ on inventory selection and marketing ideas at times.
SB: What is the most important thing your partner has taught you?
Megan: Quintin has taught me to be more focused and intentional with how I spend my day as it pertains to the business.
Quintin: Megan has taught me patience and how to be steadfast on certain business decisions.
SB: What is the most important thing to remember when you are married to your business partner?
Quintin: To not get into heated arguments about the business so much that it affects the marriage because the marriage is more important than the business. Also to always make time for romance and quality time.
SB: What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?
Megan: Don’t wait to start and commit to ownership.
