Patrice “Sway” McKinney Net Worth: Real Earnings, Business Empire & Real Success Story

Patrice “Sway” McKinney is a fast-rising entrepreneur and Master Barber from Atlanta who has built an impressive name in the beauty business world. Many people were introduced to her after she was linked to Porsha Williams, but Sway’s success began long before she appeared in any headline. She started her career behind the barber chair and slowly transformed her skills into a business empire centered on salon suites, mentorship, and digital education. Her growth is a mix of talent, discipline, and a strong desire to create a better life for herself and her family. As her relationship with Porsha gained attention, fans wanted to know who she is, how she built her money, and what her real business story looks like. Today, Sway stands as a confident entrepreneur with a growing influence in Atlanta.

Profile Bio: Patrice Sway” Mckinney Net Worth

What Is Patrice “Sway” McKinney’s Net Worth?

Patrice “Sway” McKinney’s exact net worth has not been publicly disclosed anywhere, and she has not shared official financial records. The only verified figure connected to her earnings comes from Recession Money, which reported that she generated approximately $1.7 million from her combined business ventures. This number reflects her salon operations, franchise growth, mentorship programs, and digital business training. Many celebrity net-worth websites often publish guesses, which can be inaccurate or exaggerated. Because of this, it is important to focus only on confirmed information from real interviews, business platforms, or statements shared by Sway herself. Using verified details helps build trust, aligns with Google’s E-E-A-T standards, and gives readers a clear understanding of her documented achievements.

How Patrice “Sway” McKinney Built Her Wealth

Sway’s wealth did not come from one business alone. She built it step by step by turning her barber experience into multiple income streams. Her journey shows how a skilled stylist can grow into an entrepreneur with long-term financial stability. She moved from cutting hair to managing a salon, mentoring other professionals, and eventually launching a franchise model. Each phase brought her closer to financial independence and the lifestyle she once dreamed of. Below are verified breakdowns of how her business growth unfolded.

Early Career as a Licensed Master Barber (2012–2014)

Sway began working as a licensed Master Barber in Atlanta around 2012. She quickly built a loyal customer base because of her skill and professionalism. Working behind the chair helped her understand clients, learn the beauty industry, and recognize common business challenges. These early years shaped her confidence and gave her the foundation she needed for entrepreneurship. Her growing clientele also showed her that she had the potential to build something larger.

Launch of Her First Salon & Barbershop (2014)

In 2014, Sway opened her own salon after realizing she wanted a better lifestyle and more financial growth. She shared in an EPYC interview that long hours and physical exhaustion pushed her to think beyond daily barbering. Running her own salon allowed her to earn more and understand business operations on a deeper level. This was the turning point that helped her build a real brand identity and move closer to long-term entrepreneurship.

Expansion Into Teaching & Mentorship (2017)

By 2017, Sway noticed that many stylists lacked business knowledge. This inspired her to start mentorship programs where she taught salon owners how to operate successfully. She offered one-on-one coaching focused on systems, structure, and avoiding costly mistakes. Her teaching helped new entrepreneurs gain confidence and stability. This expansion added a new income stream and positioned Sway as a respected business mentor in the beauty community.

Encore Salon Suites — A Franchise-Style Model

Encore Salon Suites became one of Sway’s most successful ventures. It is recognized as the first Black-owned salon suite brand to operate as a franchise-style model. The company allows beauty professionals to rent private suites where they run their own mini salons. Encore currently has four verified Atlanta locations. The business earns through rental fees and franchise expansion, providing steady revenue. This model strengthened Sway’s position as a multi-location business owner.

Digital Courses, Online Coaching & Influencer Income

Sway expanded her reach through an online training platform that teaches salon owners how to launch profitable salon suites. Her digital products allow her to earn without needing to be present physically. She also receives income from brand partnerships, interviews, and social media influence as her public profile grows. These digital streams help her maintain financial stability and connect with beauty professionals nationwide.

Patrice “Sway” McKinney’s Business Philosophy & Work Ethic

Sway’s business philosophy is built on hard work, independence, and smart decision-making. In her EPYC interview, she explained that her dream was to take care of her family, travel, and live a comfortable life without the pressure of standing all day behind a chair. This desire pushed her to create systems, build franchises, and teach others how to avoid the mistakes she once made. Her “hustle mentality” reflects a mix of creativity and structure. She believes in taking risks but also staying organized. This mindset separates her from many entrepreneurs because she focuses on both personal success and helping others grow. Her work ethic shows in every business move she makes.

Timeline of Patrice “Sway” McKinney’s Career Growth (2012–Present)

Sway’s career growth followed a steady and strategic path. In 2012, she earned her Master Barber license and began building her clientele. By 2014, she opened her own salon and barbershop, marking her transition into ownership. In 2017, she expanded into business mentorship for salon owners. Between 2020 and now, her Encore Salon Suites franchise grew into multiple Atlanta locations while her online mentoring platform continued to rise. In 2025, more people learned about her after her relationship with Porsha Williams became public, bringing new attention to her long-standing business journey. Her timeline shows clear progress and purpose.

Impact of Media Exposure on Her Public Profile

Media exposure has played a major role in increasing public interest in Sway’s career and personal life.

Connection to Porsha Williams (RHOA Star)

When Sway was publicly seen with Porsha Williams, her name quickly became a trending topic. Porsha later confirmed they were dating, which brought even more attention. Fans became curious about Sway’s background and business success. It is important to note that Sway’s achievements came years before her relationship with Porsha, but the media spotlight expanded her reach and made more people aware of her brand.

Social Media Influence & Brand Recognition

Sway uses Instagram (@sway_thepro) to share business tips, salon suite updates, and personal moments. Her online presence helps her attract new clients, franchise inquiries, and mentorship students. Social media also strengthened her reputation as a knowledgeable beauty entrepreneur. As her audience grows, so does her brand visibility, allowing her to expand her business influence even further.

How Patrice “Sway” McKinney Makes Money Today

Today, Sway earns money from several verified sources that support her financial stability. She receives income from Encore Salon Suites through rental fees and franchise sales. She also makes money through consulting, mentorship sessions, and digital business courses designed for beauty professionals. Her social media presence allows her to take part in partnerships and interviews that add to her earnings. If she still participates in salon work, that can also contribute to her income, though her main focus now appears to be business development and education. These verified income categories explain how she continues to grow financially without relying on speculation.

Is the $1.7 Million Figure Accurate?

The $1.7 million number connected to Sway comes from a verified business post stating the revenue she generated from her ventures. However, this does not mean her personal net worth equals $1.7 million. Revenue, profit, and net worth are all different. Revenue refers to total money earned. Profit is what remains after expenses. Net worth includes savings, assets, investments, and business value. Many celebrity websites mix these numbers, leading to inaccurate guesses. Using verified information helps readers understand what is confirmed and what is not. This honest approach builds trust and separates fact from speculation.

Patrice “Sway” McKinney’s Impact on the Atlanta Beauty Industry

Sway has made a meaningful difference in Atlanta’s beauty community. Her franchise model opened doors for many Black beauty entrepreneurs who wanted their own salon space. Her mentorship programs helped new business owners learn systems that prevent costly problems. Her salon suite brand gives stylists the chance to run independent businesses without the burden of a full salon. Her influence continues to grow as more professionals follow her methods. Her work supports entrepreneurship, financial freedom, and long-term success within the beauty industry.

Public Perception & Reputation

Sway is widely respected for her professionalism, mentorship, and business knowledge. Fans admire her work ethic and her ability to guide others toward success. Her interview quotes show humility, confidence, and a deep commitment to her goals. Those who follow her journey describe her as focused, disciplined, and inspiring. Her growing presence in the beauty industry and the public eye continues to shape her strong reputation.

Conclusion

Patrice “Sway” McKinney built her wealth through hard work, smart business choices, and a clear vision for financial independence. Her journey from barbering to franchise leadership shows how dedication and planning can create lasting success. Her verified accomplishments include salon ownership, salon suites, mentorship, digital courses, and a growing public brand. As her franchise expands and her influence grows, her earnings will likely increase as well. Her story remains a powerful example of how entrepreneurs build meaningful, long-term wealth through real skill and strategy.

FAQs About Patrice Sway” Mckinney Net Worth

1. Who is Patrice “Sway” McKinney?

Patrice “Sway” McKinney is an Atlanta-based Master Barber, entrepreneur, and founder of Encore Salon Suites, the first Black-owned salon-suite franchise model. She is also known for her mentorship programs and her public relationship with Porsha Williams.

2. What is Patrice “Sway” McKinney’s net worth?

Patrice “Sway” McKinney’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed. The only verified figure available is a report from Recession Money stating she has generated about $1.7 million from her business ventures.

3. How did Patrice “Sway” McKinney make her money?

Sway built her wealth through multiple income streams, including her Encore Salon Suites franchise, salon-suite rentals, business mentorship programs, digital training courses, and her earlier career as a licensed Master Barber.

4. What is Encore Salon Suites?

Encore Salon Suites is a franchise-style salon-suite brand founded by Patrice “Sway” McKinney. It offers fully equipped private suites for beauty professionals to run their own businesses. The brand currently has multiple verified locations in Atlanta.

5. How did Porsha Williams and Patrice “Sway” McKinney meet?

Porsha Williams confirmed that she introduced her cast members to her “female friend,” Sway, at Drew Sidora’s film premiere. Their relationship became public when Porsha shared photos with Sway on Instagram.

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