We’re looking forward to introducing you to Emily Cohen DeLaney. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Emily Cohen, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Being a mama to 31 (yes, you read that correctly haha!) – 12 chickens, 4 turkeys, 13 fish, a dogo argentino, and THE most important – a sweet baby boy!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Emily Cohen DeLaney, owner of Emily Cohen Hair! I have specialized in wedding and event hair in Memphis and the surrounding areas for over 10 years. In those 10 years, I have built a rapport with SO many other vendors, working closely with event planners, day-of coordinators, photographers, and makeup artists specifically, and have familiarity with the majority of local venues. My history in the industry helps guarantee a seamless and stress-free “getting ready” experience, and my heart and passion for my craft ensures YOU leave my chair feeling your absolute best!
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
Spending summers as a child with my dad’s mom gave me a glimpse into what my work-life would be like as a hairstylist – she worked behind the chair for years, and developed such a comfortable relationship with her clients that they became more like family. I try to bring that same relaxing energy to each appointment or event – sitting in my chair should be a minute to catch your breath before whatever big event comes next!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There is a running joke that “if you haven’t ever thought of giving up, are you really even a business owner?” Starting out, not realizing there would be ebbs and flows – months where hardly anyone would want to get married in the sweltering Memphis heat, etc. COVID shutdown definitely left a sense of uncertainty to the “non-essential”, myself included. And NOW, the struggle is having began my career prior to the social media BOOM, and trying to keep up with those that it comes second nature. But I think resilience (okay, hardheadness) is something that comes with the territory. You learn to adapt, as hard as it may be sometimes, and it builds your confidence in the process.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
“Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?” WOW. That’s a heck of a question, hah! But seriously, division. That’s where people are getting it wrong. There’s too much out there trying to divide us – politics, religion, the whole gamut. And social media exacerbates this – everyone sharing one-off opinions with no context. There are exceptions, of course but if you actually spend time with people, face to face, and have real conversation, you realize that at our core, most people really aren’t all that different.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope I’ve made people feel seen, both through enhancing their look, but also personally, in my chair.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @emilycohenhair
- Facebook: Emily Cohen Hair
Image Credits
Kelly Ginn Photography
