Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Hart.
Hi Brittany, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Courtney Kelly (my business partner) and I go way back! We worked together at a salon in Alabama for over 15 years, so our friendship and working relationship were established long before Sonder was even an idea. When Courtney moved to Memphis, we stayed close, visiting each other often and constantly bouncing business ideas off one another. We’ve both always had an entrepreneurial spirit and other businesses of our own, so dreaming up our next adventure was nothing new.
In 2020, we decided to turn one of those ideas into reality, and Sonder Luxury Suites was born. COVID had really changed the way people thought about their work environments, especially in the beauty industry. We saw an opportunity to create something that offered professionals the independence of being their own boss and having control over their own space, while still feeling connected to a supportive community. We also recognized a need in Memphis for something locally owned, rather than another chain, that welcomed and celebrated people from all walks of life.
One of the things that makes Sonder so special is the architecture and design. We worked with Design Shop in Memphis, who helped us bring our vision to life and create a space that feels unique, welcoming, and inspiring. We wanted Sonder to be more than just a collection of salon suites. We wanted it to be a place where people felt proud to come to work every day.
Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of what Courtney and I have built, but what makes me the proudest is every single person who has taken a chance on Sonder. From those who believed in us during the early growing stages to the business owners who call Sonder home today, it means so much that they chose our space to build something of their own. Starting a business takes courage, and knowing that we’ve created a place where others feel empowered to take that leap is probably the most rewarding part of this entire journey.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Of course, bringing our vision to life was anything but smooth sailing. We were building during COVID, when material costs were skyrocketing, contractors were difficult to navigate, and our opening date seemed to move further away every time we got close. There were plenty of moments that tested our patience, our determination, and probably our sanity! We were also incredibly hands-on throughout the process. We assembled equipment ourselves, cleaned and scrubbed every inch of the building, and spent so many late nights working that we practically lived there for a while. We laugh about it now, but at the time, it was a true labor of love.
Beyond the financial and construction challenges, there were also some incredibly difficult personal experiences along the way. Certain situations tested me in ways I never anticipated when we started this journey. I learned that being a business owner sometimes means finding the strength to navigate things that have absolutely nothing to do with running a business. Not every part of our story was easy, and some experiences changed me personally, but they also reinforced how important it is to create an environment where people feel safe, respected, and supported. That’s something I never take for granted.
We’ve been impressed with Sonder Luxury Suites, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Sonder Luxury Suites is so much more than your traditional salon suite concept. While we absolutely love our beauty industry professionals, we never wanted to limit Sonder to just one industry. We welcome hairstylists, estheticians, tattoo artists, piercers, photographers, and really any entrepreneur whose business would be a good fit for our space. We love the idea of bringing different talents, personalities, and businesses together under one roof.
I think one of the things that sets Sonder apart is that we’re locally owned and genuinely invested in the people who choose to build their businesses here. We’re not a large corporate chain, and we don’t want Sonder to feel like one. We want our tenants to have the freedom to create their own identity, run their businesses their way, and make their suites a reflection of who they are. We provide the space, but they bring it to life.
We’re also really proud of the atmosphere we’ve created. From the unique architecture and design to our location in Midtown Memphis, we wanted Sonder to feel elevated without feeling intimidating. Luxury doesn’t have to mean exclusive or unapproachable. To us, it’s about creating a beautiful, comfortable environment where both business owners and their clients feel welcome.
What I’m most proud of, brand-wise, is that Sonder doesn’t have just one look, one personality, or one type of business owner. Every person who walks through our doors brings something different, and that’s exactly how we wanted it. We love seeing people express their creativity, build their clientele, and grow something that’s entirely their own.
Ultimately, we want people to know that Sonder isn’t just a place to rent a suite. It’s a place to build a business, express your individuality, and be part of a community that celebrates entrepreneurship. Courtney and I may have created the space, but the incredible people who have chosen to make Sonder home are what give it its personality.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’ve always tried to surround myself with people who are smarter than me. I’m not afraid to ask questions, listen, and learn from their experiences. I’ve definitely made my share of mistakes, but one thing about me is you usually don’t have to teach me a lesson twice! I think the best way to network is to build genuine relationships, stay curious, and never assume you know it all. There’s always something to learn from the people around you. As my aunt Tina always says “I’m a lifelong learner”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Sonderluxurysuites.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sondersuites?obrf=bGR1OHhydGludDNs&utm_source=qr
