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

Hi Kylie, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I am someone who loves a plan. I like to know what I’m doing, when I’m doing it, and what level of risk is involved. That being said, I decided to quit my job of 10 years at a commission hair salon the day we got shut down due to Covid. I was about to have my first baby, I knew I wanted more flexibility with my schedule, and I was excited to be my own boss, but I was worried about changing things up and risking the career I’d spent so long building. When I realized we were going to be shut down for weeks, I made the fastest, biggest decision to take what turned out to be two months to start my own business, Hair By Kylie. My husband had recently switched careers, we were expecting our son in a few months, we were all going through a global pandemic, and I decided to risk the only constant in my life for the last 10 years to live the dream of working for myself. Personally and professionally, it was the best thing I could have done for my family and my business, and I’m proud of myself for not letting the risk deter me from my goal.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love being a hairstylist. I love building relationships with my clients and creating beautiful hair. I’m most proud of how I’ve been able to establish myself as a hairstylist in the Denver area for more than 10 years. I am proud to be working in a woman-owned salon with all female business owners alongside me. This industry can be a challenging one, but with a lot of hard work and dedication, I’ve built myself up to where I am today. I have my clients to thank for that. One lesson I’ve learned since becoming a business owner is that work-life balance is so important. I’m so lucky that I get to be a mom to both of my boys and be present in their lives as much as possible, while also being driven in my career.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If we had friends in town, we’d show them all of our favorite places around Denver. We LOVE Coors Field, so we would definitely take them to a Rockies game. We’d take them to drinks and apps at Neighbors Wine Bar and dinner at Tables, our two Park Hill favorites. We like to hike, so we’d head west one day and hike a fun trail. Depending on the time of year, we like to go to Jazz at the Park in City Park or grab a drink on a patio somewhere and enjoy the sunshine!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I would have never been able to start my own business without the support of my husband, Cody. He never once questioned my decision to leave my previous job. He knows I’m a hard worker, and he believes in me wholeheartedly. His unwavering support meant a lot on those days when you’re unsure if you’re making the right decision.

I also would be remiss not to mention the owner of the salon I rent a chair at, Kylie Nichols. I bounced a ton of ideas off her when I first met her. She really helped me understand what it takes to run your own business in our industry. She’s a smart, business-minded woman who supports other women growing their businesses in a fun and inspired salon.

Website: www.vagaro.com/kyliebergerhair

Instagram: @__hairbykylie

Image Credits
Tabor Aragon Stephanie Parsley

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