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

Hi Viktorija, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After being in the beauty industry for the last 11 years, I’ve learned what kind of environment I thrive in and what kind of service I want to provide as a professional. The amount of knowledge I lacked and expectations I put on myself gave me a sense of anxiety yet it was comforting in exploring the
“Unknown”.
At the end of 2022, I had made my mind up on becoming a self employed business owner after all the support I was getting in my personal and professional life.

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.
The common question most hairstylists get asked is: “Have you always wanted to do hair?”
To which most reply, “Since I was a little girl” or “Yes, it runs in my family” etc.
I used to respond with some hesitation and say “Actually, no.”

When I’m asked now, 8 years into my career, I answer with a giggle because it was such an unexpected path, yet it was laid out for me all along. My first job was as a shampoo assistant and I remember telling myself that I could never see myself doing hair. Who would have thought I’d end up owning my own salon suite!
In high school, I was so fascinated in studying psychology but felt it was more of an interest than something I wanted to invest in financially.
It was stressful when I couldn’t make a decision by senior year of high school. Comparing myself to my peers who were ready to join sororities in college, I felt lost.
I allowed myself to see what would play out for me in my own time, regardless of anyone’s judgement!
I landed a job at a hair salon where I got the confidence to attend Cosmetology school. While going to school full time and having an apprenticeship at the salon, I was able to apply my education directly into the “real world”.
My perspective on life changed so much due to my career. I learned to thrive in connection and chaos. As a self employed female, I am so proud to say that I wouldn’t be where I am at without the relationships I’ve built and a majority of those are other amazing and inspiring females. Even though my early adulthood didn’t go as most do, I am beyond grateful I took a pause and waited until I was ready to fully commit to something. Ive learned, the universe has a special way of making everyday turn out a way you don’t expect!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I lived in Glenwood Springs my first 3 years, and have lived in the Denver area the last 5. My favorite thing about Colorado is all the activities you can do and always find a place to eat/drink in between!

First couple days enjoy Denver.
For example checking out a Rockies game, Jazz in the Park, Yoga on the Rocks, Red Rocks Show and/or Denver Zoo, as an outside activity is always on my list when showing family/friends Denver! I am not an avid hiker, so these are more elevation friendly activities.
Getting out in the sunshine is one of my favorite things about this state!

I would also love to take them to Glenwood for a few days to check out the valley!
The canyons provide the ultimate scenic moment and not to mention all the mountain range in view! Iron mountain hot springs is one of my favorite places to go.
White river rafting down the river is also a must activity.
Downtown has a charming quality that you can easily explore for a whole day. Not to mention driving more west into Aspen to check out Maroon Bells and the town itself!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Apart from my wonderful husband, friends and family that helped me with the confidence to start my business, I really owe a lot to my professional community of hairstylists online.
In this age, we are so fortunate to have so much information and access to every kind of professional. Instagram is where I sought a lot of my material from, especially from other independent hairstylists that are willing to give their advice to other entrepreneurs.
Even thought I was starting a business as an independent booth renter, I still felt a sense of community.
I wouldn’t be where I am without all the amazing and supportive people I had in my corner, and a huge part of them are women.
When women stick and support each other… truly amazing things can happen.

Website: https://LivedinManeco.GlossGenius.com

Instagram: @livedinmane

Other: TikTok: @LivedinMane

Image Credits
OneshotHairAwards

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