Meet Shelbie Carpenter | Hair Stylist and Salon Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shelbie Carpenter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shelbie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I wanted the freedom to be able to work for myself and to be able to create a work environment that embodied my own vision. I love being able to walk into my salon with pride knowing so much heart and hard work was put into it. It’s very rewarding.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
When Top Knot Salon began, I knew nothing about running a business. I signed a lease to a building and thought, “now what?” Luckily, I had already been doing hair for four years and had some loyal clients follow me an hour north to help support me in this new journey. The first year was hard but word kept getting out about our small, boutique salon and eventually my clientele grew. Along the way I learned the ins and outs of running a small business and almost eight years later Top Knot Salon has grown from a two-chair salon to a six-chair salon.
It has always been important to me to remain small and intimate. I wanted a dedicated team of passionate stylists who were committed to making our clients feel like they are welcomed and taken care of. When we moved to our new location Downtown Loveland, I really wanted to make my vision come to reality. My husband and I turned an old skate shop into our new salon and hired a team of really incredible woman who I cannot be more grateful for.
I’ve learned so much about myself by starting my own business and I still have a lot to learn. There have definitely been times where I’ve wondered what I have gotten myself into! It’s a lot of commitment and can be extremely challenging at times. I try to remind myself that this is how we grow and that being uncomfortable is just a part of it sometimes. But every time I open the door and walk into my space, it just feels so good to be there.
As a new mom of a 4 month old, starting my own business has allowed me time to have the work/life balance that fills my cup of both being a mom, and continuing to have this other part of my identity which I hope my family can be proud of and admire. I love doing hair, and I love my community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Being a native to Colorado and having spent the better part of my life in Loveland, CO. I would consider myself a great tour guide! My top three favorite places to eat are Henrys Pub downtown Loveland, Berthoud Brewing (the Loveland location) on the west side of town, and Mt. Asain One for sushi and ramen! If you’re looking to grab a beer somewhere family friendly, Backyard Tap is where it’s at. If you’re looking for a night out of dancing and entertainment, Tom Davis Saloon is a good time, and if something lower key is your vibe, then Burkes Tavern is a local gem.
One of my favorite spots to hike and hang out is Devil’s Backbone, just watch out for rattlesnakes! And if the weather is right, grab a paddle board and head out to Boedecker Reservoir.
Loveland is such a special little town; I could go on and on.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to mention my best friend, Nicole Gibson. She and I started Top Knot Salon together in 2016. Two years later she ventured out on a new career path which has led her to start her own landscaping and design business (Gibson Garden Co.). I couldn’t have done it without her!
I’d also like to recognize my husband, Shane Carpenter, who put in so much hard work to help me build my dream salon. From building a custom color bar, to knocking down walls, he made it possible to put my vision to life!
And last I’d like to thank my clients for the abundant support they’ve given me throughout the years!!

Website: https://www.tksalonco.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/topknotsalonco/