Meet Toni Albano | Hairstylist

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

Hi Toni, how do you think about risk?
I believe taking risks in your career is what helps you elevate to that next level. Ive worked behind the chair with feelings of anxiety or fear, and I’ve worked behind the chair with feelings of confidence to try something new. Only one of those scenarios made me a better stylist. Any time I have put myself out there to do something that sounds scary, there has almost always been a reward. Put yourself out there to try a new approach, ask a stranger for that opportunity, make that move you’ve been too scared to do, or even get yourself out there on social media. These were things I found risky and have reaped the reward of.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Ive been working behind the chair for 1o years. I went to beauty school in Milwaukee WI at the Institute of Beauty and Wellness. The first salon I worked in was downtown Chicago at a beautiful Aveda salon. It was there that I expanded my knowledge of the technical and interpersonal aspects of hair styling. I feel really lucky to have spent the first half of my career learning from talented artists in the industry. The last five years, I have been with Tiffany Hair Salon in my own suite. There has been a learning curve of self reliance going from an open salon with a team to a salon suite independently. I am most proud of the way I have come into my own as a stylist. I have built great trust with my current clientele, found the services I love to offer, and found a work/home life balance. Continuing education has become a passion of mine to ensure I never become complacent behind the chair. My dream is to see more and more vivid colors leaving my chair. I look forward to the future as I challenge myself to lean into my career now more than ever.

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 love this question! For outdoors fun, we would have to hike at Saint Mary Glacier, do some sort of boating at Lake Dillon, and maybe drive up to Estes Park for some hiking and a visit to the Stanley Hotel. For a further get away, I love Palisades for the wine and Glenwood Springs for the hot springs. The Beer Spa is a must for anyone in Denver (probably my favorite thing on this list). Trve brewery for more beer and fun atmosphere. Cheba Hut has the best subs. Esters for that neighborhood pub vibe. For a nicer dinner Uncle, Adrift, Hop Alley, or Uchi are some favorites. /

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to my wonderful husband and besties E, A, and J for always being my biggest supporters.
Shoutout to the owners of Tiffany Hair Salon for giving me the space and freedom to create.
Shoutout to my mentor in Chicago for the knowledge to thrive.

Website: https://west.tiffanyhairsalon.com

Instagram: @toni_playswithcolor

Image Credits
Headshot by @lightrae_exposures
All other photos by me