Credit Union ONE is proud to have recently financed several black and female-owned businesses, including Good Hair Bar. In addition to serving members’ financial needs, being a part of the community means helping those in need of extra assistance. Thanks to Credit Union ONE’s assistance, on August 27, 2022, Good Hair Bar founder Gwen Jimmere was able to open a 4,400-square-foot salon at 37320 West Seven Mile Road in Livonia, Michigan.
Black businesses still face challenges in obtaining equitable financial opportunities, such as Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to help them purchase large equipment or facilities. The mission of Credit Union ONE is to close the inequality gap one business at a time.
Jimmere was a 2018 Crain’s 40 under 40 honoree and has also appeared on Good Morning America, featured in several print articles, and on various radio shows. Jimmere first started her business when developing Naturalicious hair care products and has now expanded her business with a full-service salon that caters to anyone with naturally textured hair. Her salon, which will employ certified textured hair stylists, also offers nail, lash, facial, waxing, and makeup services. Good Hair Bar will feature massage therapy along with in-house entertainment and client photo shoots.
Jimmere acknowledged the establishment of a salon of this kind is somewhat out of necessity. “The thing about being here in the city is there is a lot of demand, but not a lot of supply. There are a lot of salons that do extensions and weave, and no shade on that. There’s just not a high-end natural hair salon that exists in Detroit or near Detroit. It doesn’t exist in a lot of major cities. We’re giving customers everything in one stop. Quite frankly, the salon industry, particularly for Black hair, hasn’t changed in 75 years. You get people complaining about having to spend all day in a salon. We want to shift that narrative. We’re working to create a one-stop shop where people feel welcome and excited to be there.”
Fulfilling those dreams has always been a part of Jimmere’s plan. “I have plans of opening multiple Good Hair Bar locations all over the country, with several locations being franchises,” Jimmere said. Credit Union ONE wishes Jimmere all the best in reaching her business goals.
When asked about her experience opening a business, she stated, “Working with Credit Union One was an absolute dream. They made it so smooth and clear every step of the way. I was never in the dark or confused about what was happening or what next steps were. I am incredibly appreciative of the support and belief the entire team had in me and my vision. An extra special thanks goes out to Brenda Allen, Steve Terhaar, and Shaniquea Lipson. I’m looking forward to working with all of them again in the very near future.”
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About Credit Union ONE
Started in 1937, Credit Union ONE is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial institution dedicated to providing exceptional Member value across a complete portfolio of affordable and convenient financial products and services. Credit Union ONE’s tradition of high quality is based on the principle of “People Helping People,” and this is also reflected in a commitment to community involvement and giving back.