By Sheri L. Stuart, Staff Writer
To say that Corinthian Carouthers knows the beauty industry is an understatement. In fact, the savvy entrepreneur has turned her education and years of industry experience into a thriving, state-of-the-art school of cosmetology that has served the Flint community for more than 20 years. Carouthers, along with her son Quintin and daughter, also named Corinthian, own and operate Creative Hair School of Cosmetology, which occupies a six-thousand square foot space on Miller Road. Like all business owners, Carouthers has weathered her share of ups and downs. She said determination coupled with faith and a love for the beauty industry have kept her dreams alive.
“You have to really love what you do. You can’t be in something for the money. You have to have a passion for it, otherwise your enthusiasm will run out. Sometimes when business was slow and I couldn’t see my way out, I had to persevere with faith. I also knew that I loved the beauty industry and the light of day would come at some point,” she said.
When Carouthers received a 30-day notice last summer to vacate the premises she had occupied in the Mayfield Plaza off Clio Road for 19 years, she still believed the situation would somehow work in her favor.
Thankfully, it did.
In June 2018, Carouthers moved the business into the Miller Road space that was previously occupied by the Regency Beauty Institute, which abruptly closed its doors for good in 2016.
“I never saw this coming. I walked in to a turn-key situation. We have all the furniture. We have all the equipment. The Lord blessed us to be here. We have the equipment from the other location in storage, so I’m looking forward to possibly opening another school in another location at some point. That’s the goal,” she said.
Carouthers has made a point to give back to the Flint community by providing free hair care events in response to the city’s water crisis. In addition, she said between 2008 and 2016, the school awarded more than $350 thousand in scholarships to students who couldn’t afford the tuition. The school offers four comprehensive programs in cosmetology, natural hair care, esthetics and manicuring.
“All we required is that the students purchase their uniforms, books and kit. I’m grateful to be able to give back to the community,” she said.
Carouthers said she is also thankful for the love and support of her children and dearest friend, Cheryl Payton, who has stayed by her side through all the ups and downs and today is one of the school’s instructors.
“They have been faithful and sacrificed so much. I am grateful for them,” Carouthers said.
Creative Hair School of Cosmetology is located at 4205 Miller Road. For information on classes, visit www. https://www.creativehairschool.com/ or call (810) 787-4247.
