Caring for others is second nature to Taee Roseman. Originally on the path to becoming a doctor, Taee pivoted his career ambitions after responding to his calling for cosmetology. When he shared his plans with his mother, a nail spa owner, he was surprised to find out that she was also looking into cosmetology school. As fate would have it, the two ended up in classes together, and after graduation, Taee took over his mom’s space, converting it into a nail and hair spa.
In early 2020, Taee laid the groundwork for a new business. Through personal savings and donations from clients, Taee accrued the necessary funding to get started and create A Place of Zen. Despite disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Taee found the right storefront and signed the lease for his own salon and spa.
In early 2022, A Place of Zen had its grand opening. Based in Homewood, a suburb outside of Chicago, A Place of Zen is more than a salon and spa; it is a “reset space” where clients treat themselves to massages, nail care, hair braiding, and more. One thing is guaranteed: clients will always leave feeling better than when they walk in.
“I had a client earlier who told me, ‘I usually come here when I’m at my lowest, but you give me the boost of energy and confidence I need,’” Taee shared.
Collaboration plays a significant role at A Place of Zen. Like most salons and spas, the team of eleven lead their own business and clientele, while contributing to Taee’s larger vision of creating a non-judgmental space where clients are treated with love.
Beyond massages and manicures, Taee wanted his community to experience the “Zen” through unique experiences. With his cousin Quietstorm, Taee launched “Zen After Dark,” a series of events where creative expression takes centerstage. Hosted at A Place of Zen, these events range from comedy nights to sound bowl sessions. Along with hosting, Taee often partners with local nonprofits for these events, giving back to the community with free haircuts and school supply drives.
Despite maintaining a loyal clientele, Taee found it challenging to increase awareness of A Place of Zen. Many walk-in customers mentioned they were surprised to discover the business after passing it regularly. Taee knew he needed to increase his marketing efforts, but high overhead costs proved challenging.
In 2025, Taee received a loan from A4CB, which allowed him to invest in the marketing necessary to grow his business. As a result, A Place of Zen gained greater visibility and increased its client base while furthering Taee’s mission to help his community feel relaxed and well.
Looking ahead, Taee plans to franchise A Place of Zen across the country, and eventually the world. Though for now, he remains focused on learning as much as he can about entrepreneurship, building a strong foundation for the future while continuing to help his community feel its best.
“I’m going to pour and pour into people because I feel like that’s where the shift in community takes place,” Taee said. “It takes place just right in your backyard…and I want to make sure that I do my part here on Earth to give people what they deserve.”
