Daily Inspiration: Meet Evelyn Russo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Evelyn Russo. 

Hi Evelyn, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
What sparked my career as a cosmetologist was the hours I used to spend in front of the computer looking at and following along makeup tutorials. I fell in love with all things beauty related. After several years of working for someone else’s dream, I decided to take the leap and start my own businesses starting with Cleveland bridal co. That quickly grew in the first year and made me realize how much I love working for myself and not only having my ideas cared about but watching those ideas come to life in front of me. So, 6 months later I signed a lease on my salon suite to start working for MY dreams. My goal is to provide a one-stop shop for my hair clients and bridal clients and to merge cozy and luxury for the ultimate experience! 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think the biggest struggle is always getting out of your own way. We’re so conditioned to go to work and be loyal to your employer and keep our dreams simply a dream. My biggest struggle was letting go of guilt and stepping into my power. My loyal clients have been pushing me for years and it was time I believed in myself the way they do! Self-doubt is hard to overcome, but your belief in your ability to execute a successful business needs to be greater than your fear of failure. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in blonde as well as bridal makeup and Halloween special FX makeup. I truly love everything about the industry so it’s hard to choose a favorite, but I love color because of the relationships I’ve built behind the chair. Cleveland is FULL of talent in the beauty industry, but what sets me apart is that I put genuine relationships before money. I’m passionate about bringing personality to each appointment and making everyone feel like a friend. There’s nothing worse than feeling like your service provider is just a machine with dollar signs in their eyes. My clients are family and have even been to my own wedding. It’s easy to find someone to do a killer blonde, but not everyone genuinely cares about you. 

We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I originally went to school for nursing and one semester in my mom finally said “what are you doing? You have always loved hair and makeup look at this cosmetology school.” I never looked back. I actually owe my career and everything I’ve accomplished to my mom. It’s crazy to think I’d be a nurse right now pretending to love it, because I didn’t know what else to do. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.clevelandbridalco.com
• Instagram: www.Instagram.com/blonde.by.evie
• Other: www.Instagram.com/clevelandbridalco