When you step into a salon, you’re not just entering a space for beauty transformations, you’re stepping into someone’s dream. For Brecka Henderson, that dream began in childhood and blossomed into a thriving career spanning over two decades.
The Spark of Inspiration
Brecka’s story begins in 1998 when she graduated from Central High School. A year later, she completed her training at the Academy of Hair Design, but the seeds of her passion were planted much earlier. As a little girl, she idolized her big sister, Nicole Looney, who dreamed of attending
Wedgewood Cosmetology School. Watching Nicole fueled her own aspirations to pursue hairstyling as a career. Another pivotal influence was her cousin Gia Looney, a master stylist who left an indelible mark on her craft. “Gia was an absolute beast behind the chair,” she recalls fondly. These familial role models shaped her path and instilled in her an enduring love for the art of hairstyling.
Fast forward to today, and she is not only a salon owner but also an active stylist behind the chair. Her typical day starts at 7:30 am and unfolds with precision and care. By 8:30 am, she’s at the salon, setting the tone with neo-soul music, candlelight, and an inviting ambiance before flipping on the “open” sign. She works five to six days a week, personally completing 30-40 services weekly. This hands-on approach ensures that every client leaves feeling confident and radiant.
Impacting the Community
For Brecka, hairstyling isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about empowerment.
“If you look your best, you perform your best,” she says passionately. Through her work, she provides clients with the confidence to face their personal and professional lives head-on. Beyond individual transformations, she has created a safe, classy space where professionalism reigns supreme.
Her success isn’t measured solely by profits but by the support she receives from clients and staff alike. Glowing reviews and loyal patrons reflect the impact of her work. She also takes pride in mentoring her talented team, fostering an environment where creativity thrives.
Like any entrepreneur, she has faced hurdles along the way. One of her biggest challenges was overcoming fear—fear of hiring staff who might not share her work ethic and fear of slow business periods. She learned to trust the process, using downtime to recharge and refocus.
Professionally, she celebrates over 20 years in business with a well-respected name in the community. Personally, nothing compares to becoming a mother in 2007 when she gave birth to her daughter Brooklyn Henderson—a milestone she calls her greatest creation.
Future Goals
Looking ahead, she envisions expanding her salon into a one-stop beauty destination with 10 stations and private rooms for estheticians, makeup artists, and massage therapists. Her ultimate goal? To leave behind a legacy of hard work, professionalism, and inspiration for future generations entering the beauty industry.
Her advice is simple yet profound: “Find what you love to do that meets a community need.” She encourages aspiring professionals to network actively, volunteer their time, and always carry business cards. Building relationships is key to success.
Navigating professional spaces that may lack diversity hasn’t been a challenge for her because authenticity is her superpower. “What you see is what you get,” she says proudly. She’s cultivated an inclusive workspace where everyone feels welcome—a reflection of her belief in celerating people from all walks of life.
Join Her Team!
Brecka invites passionate individuals in cosmetology or related fields—lash techs, makeup artists, estheticians—to join her team. Together, they can continue making Springfield beautiful one client at a time. Her salon is located at 900 E. Battlefield, Suite #136. Call 417-888-2442 to make an appointment or go online at: hairwavessalon.co
Up Close & Personal
My favorite book: “The Five Love Languages I believe that if we learn how to treat/love people the way they need to be treated or loved, in a way that they will respond to positively and effectively, you will have healthy relationships!”
My favorite movie: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation—it’s just something you can watch with the whole family and laugh hysterically!”
What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing that has happened to you?: “The most unexpected thing that has happened to me was having a client write me a check for $2,000. It was at a time where I needed it the most. It was one of those, “‘’But God”” situations. In that moment, I knew God did not bring me this far to leave me. I will forever be grateful to her for what she did for me.”
Power outfit or accessories: “All black is what we wear in the ‘’hair industry.’’ I love a crisp all black outfit with gold hoops, ponds cream on my face, and a red lip! It’s my signature look!”
Boss lady song: “Grown Woman, by Beyonce—When I’m going for a walk, when I’m in my car driving. This song makes me feel grown, independent, important, beautiful, sexy…A BOSS!”
By Samuel G. Knox | UniteNews Staff Writer
