Angi Franceschelli: A Hairstylist's Journey of Passion, Purpose, and Paying It Forward

Angi Franceschelli, owner of BellaCapelli

Angi Franceschelli, owner of BellaCapelli Salon, isn't just a hairstylist—she's a mentor, an inspiration, and a driving force in the beauty industry. I know this firsthand because Angi was my mentor when I was starting out, and now, years later, my daughter is learning and growing under her expert guidance. Angi's passion for her craft and her dedication to empowering others are truly remarkable.

Angi's love for hairdressing was ignited early on. "I was raised in a hair salon; my mom opened her beauty shop when I was 7 years old, and I've always been drawn to helping people feel beautiful," she shares. This passion, coupled with her desire to empower others, led her to open BellaCapelli, where she has been creating magic for her clients ever since.

In the early days, Angi faced the challenge of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. "Zero balance!" she exclaims. "I was 100% obsessed with my work and never scheduled vacations. The problem was that I loved what I was doing so much that I didn't understand the importance of balance and boundaries."

Angi overcame this challenge by recognizing the importance of balance. "Just because I love being a hairdresser doesn't mean I should only be a hairdresser," she reflects. "I'm also a business owner, a wife, a mother, and so many other things."

One of the most valuable lessons Angi has learned on her entrepreneurial journey is the importance of balance. "Find the balance and you find the peace," she advises.

Angi's advice to her younger self is simple: "It's ok to say no. You can't do everything, you have to prioritize." She maintains a balance between her business and personal life by setting boundaries. "When I'm working, I'm all in, and when I'm with family, I'm all in with them," she explains. "I have 2 phones, I love my clients but I need to be able to completely disconnect from work in order to connect with family."

When things get tough, Angi stays motivated by her faith. "I stand in my faith," she shares. "I believe every single thing happens for a reason even if it's a giant crapfest, I try to see the good in every situation and not borrow trouble."

Her biggest piece of advice for those starting a business is to find their passion. "Find your passion, and that's where your purpose lives. Niche down and become an expert."

Angi cultivates a positive mindset through education. "Learn as much as you can via books, google, mentors," she advises. "Knowledge is always the cure for self-doubt." She also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and embracing opportunities to grow. "Also give yourself the opportunity to be a learner. Embrace learning until you're the expert then always strive for more, accept that you can be an expert and still remain open to becoming better."

Her daily rituals include giving herself space to dream and viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth. "I struggle every day to control the chaos that lives in my brain," she admits. "I give myself space to dream and also look at every obstacle as an opportunity to grow." "Lists and an old school paper planner help me stay organized." "If it's not on the list I don't do it, I add it to next weeks list and eliminate the constant content switching that wastes so much time."

Angi recognizes the impact of community and mentorship on her journey. "Having a mentor early in my career allowed me to take risks without fearing disaster," she shares. "It allowed me to push limits and find my way. A good mentor keeps you safe and allows you to grow at your perfect pace." "In 2004 we developed a program at BellaCapelli to foster the growth of the next generation of hairdressers." "Knowing that I have help when needed lifts a weight off my shoulders, it's nice to know a community is available for support."

She also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and support among entrepreneurs. "Collaborate, cheer each other on, help whenever you can without expecting anything in return and reach out for help when you need it," she advises.

Angi encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to define their purpose and niche down to become experts. "Define who you are and what problem it is that you can solve, get real specific," she suggests.

You can connect with Angi and learn more about her work through her website: www.bellacapelli.org.

P.S. A Personal Note of Gratitude

Angi's influence extends far beyond the salon chair. She has created a ripple effect of mentorship and empowerment that has touched countless lives, including my own. As her former apprentice, I can attest to her incredible ability to inspire and guide others. And now, as my daughter embarks on her own journey in the beauty industry under Angi's wing, I am filled with immense gratitude for the positive impact she continues to have on our lives. Thank you, Angi, for being a beacon of passion, purpose, and unwavering support.