We had the good fortune of connecting with Whitley Ward and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Whitley, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Well, when I decided I was ready to make the jump to start my own business, I really had to take in consideration of where do I want to see myself in 5 to 10 years. I feel like any stylist starting out it is our dream to one day open a full salon, I am now a decade into my career so I am in the process of figuring out what that means to myself Right now I opened up a salon suite to really just jump in and see if 1. I do like working for myself and 2. Is this going to be a stepping stone into something larger.
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.
I started off the first half of my career in corporate salons but my passion was always in color. I moved from Arkansas to Colorado a little over five years ago and knew it was finally time to push towards my goals. It was not easy building a whole new clientele from the ground up, but I was determined to build something that I knew I would be happy doing for the rest of my Career. I have really focused on doing mostly vivid color and now have had the opportunity to work with a brand I love and am now teaching classes to educate stylists all around Colorado and the surrounding states. I know there are so many stylists out there that feel like they are stuck and burnt out, I just want to be an example of anyone can do it if you have the motivation.
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.
Oh I am a creature of habit! I always recommend the same 3 restaurants to everyone. Lucille’s, Pumphouse Brewery, and Urban Field Pizza are my favorites. My wife and I also love how easy of a drive it is to Estes Park or Golden, which has some amazing walking trails that are easy for anyone.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely my family has always been my biggest cheerleaders. My wife, step mom, and grandparent’s believe in me fully and support the risks that I’ve wanted to take throughout my career and nurture the artist that I am. It’s so important to have people in your corner and I am so lucky to have multiple.
Instagram: @hairbywhitley_
Other: @neonblondesalon_
Image Credits
First 4 photos take by Abby Goodwin the rest were taken myself!