Leading by example
For the next in Northwest Indiana Business Magazine’s series on entrepreneurship, we feature Leandra Roch’e, owner of HD Hair Design in Merrillville.
HD Hair Design offers hairstyling and haircare services. The company has four employees.
Q: What is your mission statement?
A: “At HD Hair Design, we believe that true beauty comes from within. Our mission is to provide the clarity, creativity and high-impact styling that brings that inner light into focus — helping every client project their most authentic self to the world in stunning detail.”
Q: What was the catalyst for the business?
A: “Following a gap year after closing my initial salon, A Joyous Look, I found myself sought after by stylists for mentorship. As a result, a growing group of stylists began working out of my home, leading to rapid expansion. This success necessitated opening a new location, where we chose to focus on our specialty: high-definition hair care.”
Q: What is your background/education?
A: “I was licensed as a cosmetologist in 1995, and as a Master of Cosmetology Instructor in 2018.”
Q: When did you open?
A: “March 2021.”
Q: What is a goal for the future?
A: “To expand into a pre-licensing institution.”
Q: What goal have you accomplished so far?
A: “I taught at the Gary Area Career Center, succeeding the very teacher who had inspired me when I was a cosmetology student there.”
Q: Who helped you along the way?
A: “My husband has been my No. 1 supporter. He really does make this a doable job.”
Q: What book, movie or TV show inspired you?
A: “The Wiz”
Q: What is your favorite inspirational quote?
A: “Without commitment, you'll never start, but more importantly, without consistency, you'll never finish.”
Northwest Indiana Business Magazine's Entrepreneurship Q&A Series spotlights the bold thinkers and doers shaping the future of the Region. We hear from local entrepreneurs who are turning ideas into impact — sharing their insights, challenges and the stories behind their businesses. The series celebrates innovation right here at home. To nominate an entrepreneur for this column, email the editor at news@nwindianabusiness.com.
