Female Founder World How to Decide If You Should Double Down or Diversify With a Second Business
Aug 18, 2025
Christine Bartolillo, founder of Elvie Fine and owner of Love Dunette salon, shares her dynamic journey from hairdressing to jewelry design. She discusses the hurdles of balancing two businesses while opening her new jewelry studio. Christine emphasizes the importance of education and collaboration in the jewelry industry, as well as the power of storytelling and social media in building client relationships. She also shares insights on navigating e-commerce platforms and tools for streamlining client projects, inspiring fellow entrepreneurs.
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Opening A Salon Against The Odds
- Christine and her best friend Jenna opened a 500 sq ft salon by fully self-funding a gut renovation that cost about $80,000.
- They opened January 2020 and faced immediate COVID shutdowns two months later, relying on unemployment to survive.
Choosing Renters Over Employees
- Love Dunette runs with three other stylists who rent chairs and operate their own businesses inside the salon.
- Christine and Jenna chose renters over traditional employees to avoid exploitative owner-employee dynamics.
From Engagement Ring To New Career
- Christine first got obsessed with jewelry after redoing her engagement ring in 2016 and later reached out to a jeweler for guidance.
- She felt overwhelmed initially but kept the idea alive until she finally signed up for classes in 2024.