We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Vant Hul and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Amanda, how do you think about risk?
I have always marched to the beat of my own drum. There have certainly been instances in my life when others have viewed my choices as risky, but what does that truly mean? If we are following the inner fire that tells us there is more to life, is that even a risk? By listening to this whisper even in failure, we gain invaluable lessons and experience growth. I refuse to let fear dictate my life. Without pushing our limits, we can never truly know what we are capable of achieving.
As Vivian Valenty, Founder of Dazzle Dry—the most remarkable nail polish line I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with—said, “It’s not an easy road to be an entrepreneur, owning your own business. It’s not for the faint-hearted; you must have a stout heart and be able to address and overcome the challenges that are thrown your way.” Her words and achievements have been a profound inspiration to me, demonstrating the resilience and grit required to succeed.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I never envisioned myself owning a salon, but when opportunity knocked, I dove in headfirst. The business model proved challenging, and I learned valuable lessons the hard way. Each hurdle taught me that despite setbacks, we have the power to turn any situation into a positive experience. I aimed to create a sanctuary where people could feel safe emotionally and physically. Unfortunately, the beauty industry often uses toxic products, and many nail salons fail to provide accurate information to clients. Consumers trust us to guide them toward decisions that benefit their well-being. While I do think there is a place for dip nails or acrylics, deceiving consumers about their healthiness is not ok. Daily, we see clients with severely damaged nails from salons peddling false information. My mission is to educate people about product risks and offer solutions for nail health recovery. Our salon stands apart because we prioritize the long-term health of our clients’ nails. The Dazzle Dry line we offer is unparalleled in my experience: it dries in five minutes, enriches nails with nutrients, and lasts as long as, if not longer than, gel alternatives. Its a product I can stand behind.
Another distinctive aspect of our approach is my deep appreciation for plants and my dedication to integrating them extensively into our space. This not only enhances air quality but also leverages their healing properties. Currently, I am focused on cultivating and harvesting fresh herbs to incorporate into our existing in-house products. I believe that plants have medicinal qualities, I am so happy to offer a space that fellow plant enthusiasts can also enjoy.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m quite biased of course but there are so many great places right in our neighborhood! First we would sweat it out at Pearl Street Fitness or Solidcore, my 2 favorite group fitness gyms. Pop over to Tokyo Premium Bakery for a delicious sweet or savory pastry, maybe take a stroll around Washington Park or Botanic Gardens. Then stop in for a tasty brunch at The Goldfinch. Yum! catch a show at Red Rocks or Mission Ballroom, and don’t forget dinner at Alma Fonda Fina one of my favorite spots at the moment. I think anything in nature is rad so of course throwing a hike in there somewhere is a must. Rocky Mountain is always a great option. Recently I hiked Dead Man’s Gulch near Lyons and really enjoyed that as well!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shout-out goes to the community and family I’ve built in this salon. I grew up in Lone Elm, Kansas, a small rural community with a population of 23. I wouldn’t change this for anything in the world. However, coming from such a small community, there were many lessons to be learned as I navigated what it meant to be a small business owner in a rapidly growing city like Denver. Many of my clients have stood by my side from the very beginning, offering words of encouragement and a shoulder to lean on, just as I’ve given them mine over the years. I’ve seen their children grow up, and we’ve shared great achievements and great losses together. This is what truly makes it all worthwhile for me—the amazing humans who have chosen to be right next to me on this amazing ride.
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Image Credits
Kate Marley