Spotlight on Hidden Gem Salon: A Story of Growth, Service, and Community Connection
Spotlight on Hidden Gem Salon
At Fourth Plain Forward, our mission is to support and uplift small businesses throughout Clark County by providing access to resources, education, and meaningful connections. This work is made possible through our partnership with Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW) and funding support from the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Reinvestment Project (https://www.commerce.wa.gov/crp/)
One of the businesses we've had the privilege to support is Hidden Gem Salon, led by Yecenia, a dedicated entrepreneur in Vancouver, WA. Hidden Gem Salon offers a wide range of beauty and self-care services, from barbering and manicures to highlights and waxing, in a space that celebrates inclusion and welcomes clients from all walks of life. Yecenia and her team go above and beyond to create a welcoming environment where every client feels seen, valued, and confident. They also use technology to improve the customer experience while staying true to their personal touch.
Yecenia's commitment to professional growth is equally remarkable. This year, she participated in multiple workshops hosted by Fourth Plain Forward including our Branding Workshop in January, The Power of Networking, and Mastering Your Elevator Pitch in March. These workshops were made possible with support from Workforce Southwest Washington and the Department of Commerce. Her continued participation highlights the leadership, curiosity, and community-centered mindset we are proud to uplift.
Through the Community Reinvestment Project, Yecenia also received a mini-grant which she used to purchase new equipment. This investment allowed her to expand her services, grow her team, and ultimately increase the impact of her business in the community. Funds from Workforce Southwest Washington helped make these grants possible, reinforcing our shared commitment to economic growth through small business empowerment.
In her own words, Yecenia shared: "These workshops helped me connect with other business owners and build my confidence as a leader. The mini-grant gave me the tools I needed to take my business to the next level, I'm truly grateful for the support."
Hidden Gem Salon is a shining example of what’s possible when talent, dedication, and community resources come together. It reflects everything our outreach aims to elevate: service excellence, growth mindset, and deep community connection.
Stay tuned, we’ll soon be sharing a video spotlighting Yecenia’s journey, her business, and her vision for the future.
If you're in Clark County, don’t miss the opportunity to experience Hidden Gem Salon for yourself. Support a local business that's making a difference, one client at a time.
Are you a small business owner interested in receiving support? Visit www.fourthplainforward.org to sign up for an upcoming workshop or reach out to our team to learn more about our technical assistance programs.