Sometimes being an entrepreneur makes me feel like a Martian.
For instance, when I tell people what I do for a living and they reply with, “Wow, Kristi that is really… impressive!” Whereas all you other biz gals know, those three dots that sound complimentary actually translate into “Wtf is this girl talking about.”
Not many people get it. And I don’t blame them, because sometimes I still fish for the perfect Title that best describes me & my businesses.
So when I run into other small biz owners, I relish, RELISH the opportunity to chat. To find out how their machine works. To laugh at all the dumb things we do. To remember that other people chose this crazy life, too.
And that’s exactly what happened when I way-overstayed my welcome (whoops!) to meet the girls from Meraki Room — a new Chicago salon in Wicker Park just opened this January.
Chicago Business: Meet Meraki Room
I was invited by Natalie, one of the stylists (find her on Insta @nataliehueshair) and to give me a much-needed chop to these blonde locks.

Before: BYE HAIR.
You guys, this salon is GORGOUS.
Natalie jumped right in to welcome me and provide me a tour of the salon.
I got to hear about the labor of love that is Meraki Room, how family members pitched in to build and create the space — I was immediately reminded of when my hubby and I were building my first brick-and-mortar store and it was a totally all-hands-on-deck kind of experience — so I absolutely fell in love with that sweet detail.
And while Natalie was chopping away, the co-owner Taya came over to chat and I realized how it felt like such a tight-knit group, I connected with these ladies immediately & I was just chatting amongst friends — and so were they.

After: Those V-Secret Waves
The gals at Meraki room are in one word: passionate.
Everything is done with love and intention, and when you check it out in person you will absolutely see what I mean. There girls are the real deal.
The Details:
Meraki Room: Located at 2028 W. Division Street | Chicago
The Meaning: The word “Meraki” means “The Soul, Creativity, or Love that is put into something, or the essence of yourself put into your work.”
The Owners: Diana, Dani and Taya are the three cool chicks behind Meraki Room
My Stylist: Natalie is amazing and you should connect with her on Instagram here: @nataliehueshair
The Products: Davines is the main hair line and I’ve been using the Dry Textured spray to repeat that full-bodied look.
P.S. I sold a house right after I left the salon so if that isn’t a sign of good, good vibes coming from this place, what is?!
An Admin Note:
This post is a little outside of the normal content of Kristi Means Business, but I hope you can tell my passion for entrepreneurship bleeds beyond my own few businesses. I love meeting other biz owners and being able to share their stories with others as well — so expect more of that from time to time!
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