http://www.the109.org/business/story/2014/10/7098.

singlemommanageshair
saloninspiresclients

Singlemommanageshair
salon,inspiresclients
By Joe Dougherty / Published October 20, 2014
Becoming an instant single mother to three children after her
sister died from a rare cancer didnt stop a 109 hairstylist from
managing her salon.
Irene Mendozas sister, Emberly Enriquez, died from a rare
pediatric cancer five years ago, giving Mendoza custody of her
three daughters. Mendoza first began caring for one-year-old
Teresa, four-year-old Cameron and newborn Cassidy, only two
days old at the time, while her sister was in chemotherapy.
I went from having a dog as my big responsibility to feeding
three kids, said Mendoza, who became the girls legal guardian.
Mendoza had looked after the three girls during her sisters
chemotherapy for a year-and-a-half which allowed a smooth
transition to parenthood.
My [salon] clients have all been supportive of the transition, she
said.
One of Mendozas clients, Peggy Johnson, described Mendoza as a
good friend and prayer warrior.

La Terre Salon, which Mendoza opened in 2002, began in a small

office suite on Hulen Street and later moved to its current location
at 3027 Cockrell Avenue.
My clients were the best, and its amazing how clients and
students would hang with my kids, she said.
Despite the struggle of juggling children and business, Mendoza
said she is happy with her situation.
I wouldnt change it for the world, she said. Everything is just
what its supposed to be.
Mendoza runs the salon with Jessica Gomez, 21, a family friend
who started helping around the salon at the age of 12 as
punishment.
She really taught me a lot, said Gomez who is acquainted
with many of the salons clients.
Mendoza said the salon allows her to share her story and inspire
others.
You share a little bit about yourself and people realize theyre not
the only one, she said.
TCU students have gone to other salons and been treated
differently, Mendoza said, but she believes everyone should get
the same service.
Shes continually familiar with her customers, said former TCU
student Mari Sweeney, and makes sure they all leave with a
smile on their face.

For more information about La Terre Salon visit their Facebook

page at Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.