Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Gordon.
Ashley, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
As a kid, I never had the mentality of “I want to be a hair stylist when I grow up!” I actually cringed at the idea of doing hair, when my mom first brought it up. Growing up, I was vastly creative and artsy; however, I was (and still am) a huge tomboy at heart. That being said, hair, skin, and nails was NOT my forte. But, I was 21 and felt lost, unsure of where my career path was going. I figured, if anything, it would be a great hands-on trade to learn. I dived in a couple of months later at Regency Beauty Institute of Mesquite.
When I tell you that becoming a hair stylist saved my life, I am not exaggerating. I have suffered from depression and anxiety since I was a kid, and I have seen some dark times. From day one of cosmetology school, I felt like a piece of myself had awaken. It lit my soul and heart on fire, and I knew I was on the right path. The instructors and the lasting friendships that I made have really helped shape me into the stylist that I am today, whether they know it or not.
After graduation, I started working at a chain salon. I went from being top dog at my school to a bottom, terrified, new stylist. I will be the first to tell you, I wrecked some heads. There were days that I had to hide in the bathroom and cry it out. Or I would have to give out free haircuts, because they were not pretty! I learned the true feeling of trial and error during this time of my life. After 2-3 years of working on my craft, I found myself dreading going to work. I felt like the company I was working for only cared about how fast I could cut hair. but not the value and detail that I put into every guest. I got into trouble for not being as “efficient” or fast as they wanted. I love to pay as much attention to detail as I can to anyone in my chair, to personalize and accommodate their needs. Many of my clients were always encouraging me to go out on my own and work for myself. That’s exactly what I did.
In March 2018, I started HYPE. with my girlfriend, Larissa, who is also a hairstylist. We share a suite together at Phenix Salon Suites in Las Colinas, Texas. It was a very scary jump to make, I won’t lie. It was financially, mentally, and physically different. But, I have been able to expand my knowledge, skill set, and client base since I took the plunge. It has allowed me to be extremely creative and artistic, and branch out is so many ways. AND I have the most supportive, loving, amazing clients in the whole world, who encourage me to be the absolute best version of myself. Not every hair stylist can say that! I am so excited to see myself grow even more. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else with my life. I found a home in this industry. I guess Mom really does know best!
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I love waking up every day knowing that I get to make people feel great, and I’m confident that my clients will tell you just that. I know people that travel from 2-3 hours away, just for me to get my hands in their hair. I really like to think that I offer something that a lot of hair stylists don’t typically have: TIME.
We were taught in school that time is money, which I completely agree. However, I know that certain haircuts/styles/colors need more time and love. And sometimes, it’s not the hair that needs the time or love. it’s the person in the chair. I have heard so many stories: heart aches, embarrassments, happy memories, regrets, secrets. I have wiped away tears and given many hugs. I have offered advice and shared similar experiences. Does it eat into my time? Absolutely. But my clients aren’t just my paycheck. I value them just as much as they value me.
If I had to pick, I would say that doing clipper cuts and vivid/fun hair colors are my favorite. I feel that those are some of the most creative things that you can do in this industry. They don’t have any set rules and the outcomes are endless! I love things that are different or modified, anything outside of the “societal norm”. Weirdness is my normal.
Artists rarely, if ever pursue art for the money. Nonetheless, we all have bills and responsibilities and many aspiring artists are discouraged from pursuing art due to financial reasons. Any advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective artists?
Rule Number 1. DON’T GIVE UP. There are going to be many challenges when starting your own business, especially in this industry, and financials are on the top of that list. It is so easy to feel like you’re failing and want to give up when there’s not a ton of money in the bank. Believe me, I have been there. You have to learn how to budget and save. If your bills are paid, you have a roof over your head, and you’re able to eat (even if it’s at home), you’re doing way better than you think.
Rule Number 2. ADVERTISE YOUR CRAFT! I have probably annoyed my friends on Facebook with numerous posts every day, sharing posts from my business Facebook account. Always promoting openings, always reaching out to friends and clients, sharing my work online. always doing something to get my name out there. On my slow days, I will sit in my salon suite with my laptop and advertise myself. Business cards, various social media platforms, and supportive friends and family that will help promote you, will help your financials more than you realize.
Rule Number 3. SUPPORT. The best thing you can have is support from everyone around you. Whether it’s word of mouth, sharing your online portfolio, referrals, or even positive motivation, support is key. I am still within my first year of owning my own business, and it does get tough. But man, I have an incredible support system! Between my family, friends, partner, co-workers, and many more people. I am always getting opportunities to meet new potential clients. Do not let financials break your passion. Take every day on like you’re going to make a million bucks. and one day, you just might do that.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I have a few different social media platforms. My online portfolio is on Instagram: @edgemeupashley. To keep up with current events, leave reviews, and contact my business directly www.facebook.com/hypebyashleygordon
To see the service list or book an appointment, https://squareup.com/appointments/book/9J808D4CM8YEN/hype-irving-tx
Contact Info:
- Address: Phenix Salon Suites
4040 North Mac Arthur Blvd #100 Room 110 Irving, Texas 75038 Room 110 - Website: https://squareup.com/appointments/book/9J808D4CM8YEN/hype-irving-tx
- Phone: 2144056675
- Email: edgemeupashley@gmail.com
- Instagram: @edgemeupashley
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hypebyashleygordon
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