Today, we’d like to introduce you to Chloe Ammond.
Hi Chloe, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was one of those dramatic kids whose parents put them in theatre. It was probably one of the best decisions they made. I grew up with a love of theatre and beauty, so after trying to “make it” as an actor in college, I decided to pivot. I combined both of my passions and transferred to Western Michigan University’s theatre design program for hair and makeup.
After the COVID-19 quarantines, I felt unsatisfied with my work again. A career in theatre is very hard if you don’t have a passion for the work, and I lost that drive. I was depressed and felt so much despair, and I almost dropped out of college. I still loved doing hair, but it was the theatre environment that was dragging me down. So I decided to pivot again. The day after I graduated with my BFA, I moved to Grand Rapids, and I started beauty school the next month. Now, I work at Bradley Salons in Grand Rapids, and I love going to work every day!
I get to meet new people, catch up with returning clients and do hair at the same time. I get so much joy from making people feel confident because a person who feels comfortable with how they look will have enough inner confidence to do and try anything!
We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In some ways, yes, and in others, no. During that time after quarantine, I really struggled to find a purpose in life. I truly thought I would never be happy. But I read the book Man’s Search For Meaning by Victor Frankl, and I believe that “A man with a why can withstand any how.” I found my purpose in being a hairstylist, and I found an environment where I could flourish.
Of course, I’ve been through the challenges of any other entrepreneur, but they feel small compared to my past struggles. I’ve conquered (and still continue to conquer) my mind, and I’ve found my place in the world. So, I know I can tackle anything thrown at me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As you can probably already tell, I am a hairstylist at Bradley Salons in Grand Rapids! I specialize in curly hair and hair color, but I try to learn a little bit of everything. I strive to learn as many techniques as possible and apply them to every person who sits in my chair.
Each head of hair is different, and people deserve a service tailored to their unique selves! I believe our hair should reflect who we are and who we want to be. Hair is not only expressive, but it can change the way we feel about ourselves. I help each person in my chair show the world their wonderful individuality while being a safe space for all identities and backgrounds.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some changes you expect to see over the next five to ten years?
I see a huge rise in independent salons and stylists. With social media, stylists and cosmetology students are learning more about the industry and the different possible career paths. You don’t have to start at a corporate salon (Great Clips, Ulta, etc.).
Stylists want to do the services they’re confident in, use the products they believe are best, set their own schedule, etc., and being independent allows for that. I don’t think corporate salons will go away because they are the best workplace for some people. Just not for others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/Chloe_Ammond
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ammond_design/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082570286035
- Other: https://www.bradleysalons.com
