Salon Owner Opens First Black-Owned Cosmetology School In Ann Arbor

Aisha Gatlin is making beauty history with the grand opening of Beautiful Luxe School of Cosmetology. This is the first Black-owned cosmetology training facility in Ann Arbor, Mi.

“It’s very exciting to break barriers and show other women of color that they, too, can follow their dreams and step out and do something that’s not the norm for us,” Gatlin told MLive.com in a recent interview. “This industry is dominated by middle-aged Caucasian men. To have a young Back woman being able to step out … is very exciting for me.”

Gatlin, who also owns a salon and luxury hair extensions company in Ypsilanti, opened the beauty school October 6 in Briarwood Mall. She said she was inspired after difficulties finding stylists with the proper training to work on all hair textures — specifically African Americans.

“As a hairstylist, you should be able to work with all types of hair,” she told the newspaper.

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell recognized Gatlin’s achievement with an official Congressional Record of achievement. “I am grateful for Gatlin’s meaningful efforts to facilitate greater inclusivity in the haircare industry,” wrote in her remarks.

The school currently offers several training program, including a full-time, one-year cosmetology program, as well as natural hair, manicuring and instructor programs which take three to four months to complete. The school also offers a state-board refresher course.

New enrollees can access up to $2500 in scholarships and pay-as-you-go tuition financing.

In addition, those looking for a deal on their hair services can also score discounted cuts. coloring, braids and treatments by students who are supervised by licensed instructors.

For more information, head on over to beautifulluxeschool.com