Meet Courtney Graham | Independent licenced cosmetologist. Owner of Teased Taurus LLC

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

Hi Courtney, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
With a license in cosmetology there are so many different paths to take and expand on. I’ve always wanted to be my own boss, and create my own schedule. While spending 15 months in school I had plenty of time to consider what I wanted to do. Creating my own business allows me to expand my cosmetology path any direction I choose. It took me a while to decide on my business name. Teased Taurus LLC was chosen because my zodiac sign is a Taurus and I added “Teased” because it’s an other term for “back combing” which is a way to finish some style outs.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Cosmetology is a very creative career, and there is no shortage of licenced stylists! I’ve always enjoyed helping people feel better about themselves, thinking of new ways to change looks and help people achieve feeling great and confident! I never want anyone to leave my salon chair unhappy with their service, and I strive for greatness. I don’t believe any book should be judged by it’s cover, and I believe everyone should be treated with respect and dignity no matter any differences we face. I’m most proud of being my most unique and authentic self, and I’m excited to help others find that for themselves too. It’s taken a lot of growth to get to where I am today, some of the most important steps in my success were my failures along the way. Without the set backs I faced I wouldn’t have been able to experience the same amount of growth. The biggest set back held me back for 8 years. I always knew I wanted to be a cosmetologist, sometimes life’s timing is just a little off. When I left school all those years ago, it left a bitter taste in my mouth. I never thought I’d try again, because if I didn’t do it the first time then I thought I didn’t deserve a second try. Then suddenly there was a lot of self reflection, and inner growth discovered at once. I thought I would re-enroll to a new school in the fall, but I ended up being so excited that I started school the spring after rediscovering myself and my passions. In the state of Colorado Cosmetologist are required to complete 15 months of school training. Once that is complete each student needs to pass two state exams to receive their state license to work. Remembering the experience I had at the previous school, I knew to take my education in to my own hands and take full responsibility for what I would be learning. I want everyone to know that I really care about this career, and I treat my clients with respect no matter what. I hope everyone feels safe and welcome to be themselves, and request any services offered, no matter who they are. Confidence is key, and an original is always worth more than a copy so be yourself. You are your own main character in your story.

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?
Meow Wolf in Denver is a super interesting place to spend a day! And you can’t go wrong with a visit to Cheyenne Mountain zoo, though it’s more of a hike than you expect. Dutch Bros coffee is always a delightful stop, such friendly people working. Garden of the Gods is a must see site, and always free-until you stop at the gift shop.

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 don’t know where I would be without my mentor Arline at The Polished Blade in Colorado Springs on N Academy. She opened a salon with two other wonderful people, and they’ve created a beautiful unisex salon space together. They’ve all been so welcoming and friendly, including other stylists that booth rent too. I’ve decided I’d like to start my career at that location. They have all given me so much support and career/business advice. I can’t think of a better place to work!

Website: https://teased-taurus.square.site/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/teased.taurus?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeasedTaurusCypryss/

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@teased.taurus?_t=8Uh6JPHKcV0&_r=1

Image Credits
Professional photos taken by Dream Catcher Photography LLC