Karen Coleman, owner of Synergi Salon in east Columbus, was among just six entrepreneurs given the opportunity to make a five-minute business pitch to Daymond John and his panel of investors during a business luncheon in Atlanta last month.
For the uninitiated, John is founder of FUBU clothing company, a venture capitalist, and one of the stars of ABC’s “Shark Tank,” a reality show where executives consider offers from other entrepreneurs seeking investments for their business or product.
Needless to say, presenting to John and the panel was quite an opportunity− and one that will have a lasting impact, as Synergi was the only company deemed investment-worthy.
The panel’s decision to give Synergi an offer is additional confirmation that the company is an industry pioneer, says Coleman.
Since introducing its patented GetItStrait! products four years ago, Synergi has posted impressive sales− something Coleman attributes to creating a niche in the oversaturated hair care industry.
Synergi specializes in helping clients grow out chemical relaxers and returning their hair to its healthy, natural state. To do this, they rely on Synergi’s salon styling services and their choice of about a dozen at-home maintenance products.
“The products are light, non-coating, and do not contain heavy oils like traditional ethnic hair care products,” she says.
Coleman worked with a chemist for a little over a year to develop the products.
“Originally I had 12 items, have discontinued one item, and will premiere two new items in the line in November,” she says.
Further, the line −available online and at Synergi Salon, at 3443 E. Broad St.− will be renamed Perfectly Me by Synergi.
In addition to products and services, Synergi offers free monthly workshops at the salon featuring live model demonstrations, as well as tips for managing hair between salon visits and tips for styling little girls.
Workshop registration is available online.
Coleman says the funding received from John’s Shark Branding will go toward a campaign to spread the Synergi brand all over the world.
“I have a global vision for Synergi Salon and products,” she says. “Stylists from all over the country are reaching out to us daily, asking how they can duplicate our offering. Relaxer-free hair is a movement; it’s not just happening in Columbus, Ohio. I envision Synergi stylists and salons worldwide in the very near future.”
To learn more about Synergi Salon, visit SynergiSalon.com.
