UNSCRIPTED: Unapologetically...TONI!
Unscripted
By Keith Edmonds
FWIS Contributing Writer
“Strength and honor are her clothing; She shall rejoice in time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.”
Proverbs 31:25-26
Today’s story features an interview with Toni Irby, a master stylist, entrepreneur, and visionary leader, highlighting her impact on the community and her journey in finding her passion for life. We discussed her background and the challenges she faced early in her career which motivated her to persevere in her pursuits. The opening quote from Proverbs emphasizes strength and wisdom, setting a positive tone for this piece. Please help me welcome Ms. Toni Irby to today’s... UNSCRIPTED.
(UNSCRIPTED): Wow! What a pleasure it is to have you share with us today! Share a little about your background and your thriving business!
TONI: “Thank you for having me today, it’s truly a pleasure to be here with you! I’m the proud owner of Upgrade Hair Salon and also Custom Glory Wigs. Beyond my professional roles, I cherish being a devoted mom, a loving daughter, and the kind of sister-friend who ALWAYS shows up! I have the privilege of serving incredible women, many of whom face hair loss challenges. Helping them feel confident and radiant is not just my job it's my calling. I genuinely love what I do. There is immense joy in connecting with my clients, hearing their stories, and being a part of their journeys. I have no regrets for the opportunity to make a positive impact daily.”
(UNSCRIPTED): Share with us what led to the creation of your business and your thought process prior to its inception. In my opinion what you do could be called ministry.
TONI: “After graduating from Indiana University, I stepped into the corporate world with GTE. I spent about 2 1/2 years there, but during that time I felt a pull toward something more creative. That's when I decided to enroll in cosmetology school at night, seeking an outlet for my creative side. What started as a “side hustle,” quickly became my passion. The freedom and fulfillment I found in the beauty industry were unparalleled. So, I made the leap from corporate America to entrepreneurship and over 20 years later, I'm still thriving in this space, but the transition wasn't without its challenges. Corporate life had its share of turbulence, and I realized that I couldn't let others define me or limit my growth. I was determined to carve out a path where I could be true to myself and have control over my destiny. Attending beauty school at night was a pivotal decision and allowed me to explore a new avenue. One that I initially saw as a side gig but eventually embraced as my calling. Graduating from cosmetology school marked the beginning of a journey that has been both rewarding and empowering.”
(UNSCRIPTED): When it comes to creativity, how do you come up with the designs and concepts for your wig choices? It’s fascinating to see how it all comes together...
TONI: “ My wig-making journey began as a way to support my sister Rhonda during her cancer treatment. She passed in 2009 before she could wear any of my designs, but it pushed me to continue. I wasn't great at first, but I persevered, and now, over 16 years later, I'm still dedicated to this craft. I always say that God takes pain and makes it powerful and then he makes it purposeful. Losing Rhonda gave me the drive to keep going. Hair loss/ wig wearing is a sensitive issue (due to lingering stigmas), but I wanted to change that narrative. I committed to creating one wig each week and sharing it through videos titled: “Thankful Thursday.” Each piece came with its own story and message which I called “Wig and a Word.” It became a beautiful way to merge creativity with faith and to honor the journey that brought me here.”
(UNSCRIPTED): So, I have to ask, who was the person (or persons) that motivated you to do what you do?
TONI: “Actually I was self-motivated. I’d see or follow other stylists from other cities, and I would take classes that perfected my craft and then begin. Now, I certainly had influential people around me like my mother who is the most God-fearing person I know. She constantly reminded me “Only what you do for God will last” That keeps me grounded and focused on purpose over applause”!
(UNSCRIPTED): So, to bring this piece to a close... What are 3 things that you would like people to know that maybe they don’t know about Toni Irby?
TONI: “Wow! No one has ever asked me that question...When people ask me to talk about myself it’s actually hard to do!
1) I have a phobia of dogs and cats. (We just don’t vibe!) I don’t like them, and they don’t like me!
2) I’m not a fan of Roller Coasters!
3) I don’t watch television...AT ALL!
(UNSCRIPTED): Toni, I want to thank you for your heart your spirit and for endearing yourself to our readers today. I’ll always have a heart for you and your work and may God Bless you!
TONI: “Aww.. Thank you so much. At the end of the day, I just want my carbon footprint to make a difference”...