Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Navis.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have always been interested in the beauty industry. It actually started with makeup back in high school when I would stay up for hours practicing new techniques. Hair kind of came out of nowhere honestly. I definitely did do hair for plays at school and helped girls get ready for prom and really enjoyed it. Fast forwards, I hired a company to do my hair and makeup for my wedding and asked so many questions the owner of the company asked me to be a part of the team. She told me she wanted to teach me a little bit about hair too. I remember my first time doing a bridal updo. She punched me in the arm and said “ Um what the heck?!?!?! You’re like really stinkin talented at hair! Why didn’t you tell me!!!” Almost immediately I switched from makeup to hair. I loved it! Could not get enough! I would play with my mannequin head constantly. There was a feeling about hair that I had never felt. Makeup was something I did that soothed me. A way to express myself. But hair filled my soul. I began to fill my weekends working weddings. From there another dream started. I LOVED when my brides and bridesmaids came in with hair extension. I loved the total transformation that hair extensions provided and the confidence that it gave people. I knew I wanted to specialize in hair extensions. So I finally decided to go to cosmetology school. I was so scared I wouldn’t love cutting and coloring hair and would regret the decision. Turned out it was the exact opposite. I fell in love with and became obsessed with all things hair. There is nothing more satisfying that watching someone become a new person through color. And the rest was history! I graduated school and immediately became certified in handtied extension. Extensions are the whole reason I even went to school. I absolutely love the method I use and now wear in my own hair. The smile on someone’s face as they gasp and squeal over their new hair is truly magical. I’m so glad a decided on this path.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Honestly, going to school was the absolute scariest part of all this. I dropped out of college for many reasons. I’ve carried around that feeling of not being smart enough or good enough for years! That fear of failure kept me from going to cosmetology school for a really long time. I was so scared of not succeeding or going to school just to realize hair wasn’t my passion. Graduating was one of my proudest accomplishments. College isn’t for everyone and that’s totally ok! There are sooo many different life paths. So after overcoming that, starting my own business didn’t seem so scary in comparison. I felt like I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. I share a salon suite with my best friend and could not be happier! There are of course challenges and fears but we motivate each other and keep each other going. I am able to focus on what I love!
Tell us about your business – what should we know?
I specialize in extensions. I do hand tied extensions and I am obsessed with them! This method of installation uses no heat, glue, or chemicals making it the safest option for your hair! I also seem to attract a lot of blonde clients being a blonde myself. But I really enjoy doing most anything with hair. I still do weddings on a few weekends a month and continue to love that. My focus is making women feel gorgeous and confident. I’ve dealt with a lot of insecurity in my life and I always feel such a boost of confidence when I get my hair done. I love giving that same boost to other women. I’m also always down for a good laugh! I love chatting with my clients and getting to know them. I feel like my bestie and I have created a safe and fun environment for women to come, relax, and be pampered.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
My ability to talk to anyone and everyone is something that has definitely been hugely helpful. I am able to make anyone relax and feel comfortable in my chair. I’m also extremely obsessive. I will think through every single step before executing any cut or color. I also have about three backup plans for everything as well. Color can sometimes be unpredictable and you have to have a plan for every worst case scenario. This also pushes me to keep learning. I’m constantly taking classes, whether online or in person. That’s the only way to get better and keep up in such an ever changing career.
Contact Info:
- Address: 120 S Denton Tap Rd Suite 305 #101, Coppell, TX 75019
- Website: Coming Soon
- Phone: 972-850-8638
- Email: ashleynavishair@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleynavishair/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleynavishair/?ref=bookmarks
Image Credit:
Traci Price Photography (Personal photo)
Suggest a story: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
