Connect
To Top

Conversations with Molly Mars

Today we’d like to introduce you to Molly Mars

Hi Molly, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
For as long as I can remember, I knew I was going to ‘do hair’. I don’t think I ever made the choice… I just already had that direction in front of me and didn’t question it. What I couldn’t have known was the journey that my passion would take me on! Consistently my goal has been to help the inner beauty shine, as well as the outer beauty. On my application to cosmetology school in 2007, I wrote that my goal in doing this work was to make people FEEL beautiful, important, and cared for. My motto has been love since day one, that’s true now more than ever, and the scope of what that means to me continues to widen.

I began my career as a stylist exploring everything the industry offered. Continually furthering my education, and through much experimentation, trial, and ‘mess around and find out’, finding my way to where I am today. I’ve gone through some major shifts in my 16 years behind the chair, the most recent one has been the biggest yet. I left my life as the co-owner/operator of two busy salons where I wasn’t able to be authentic or fully put myself into the brand, to pursue the creation of a culture and brand that are true to my heart. I currently operate in a private studio, where I am doing just that – cultivating an energy of brave authenticity, grounded connection, and celebration of the differences that make us all unique.

Our hair holds energy, it comes directly out of our crown chakra and carries with it our inner essence, I believe in the transfer of energy through touch, and as someone who is entrusted with that vulnerable exchange, I hold close the responsibility to do so in integrity. Two years ago, I began studying energy healing, and have been integrating that in my work behind the chair as well as in my own personal life. I am so passionate about energetic wellness and the relation that has to our outer appearance and physical well-being. My practice includes certifications in multiple modalities, I am currently becoming certified in Human Design (I adore the study of the ‘why and how’ of us), after that I will begin my training to become a reiki master, and I don’t plan to stop there! The modalities and applications of energy work are endless, I am enamored with the ways this work can benefit our lives and the world around us. I have some exciting plans in the works, and I can’t wait to share them as they come to life!

So, I guess my story is this – I love doing hair. I love impacting the people that sit in my chair. I love that I am a safe space for folks to share their hearts and where they can be authentic. Hair is my medium, but my craft and my passion goes so much deeper than creating works of art on a head. I am helping my clients find self-expression, energetic healing, and alignment with their identity through their crown.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Honestly… if the road was smooth, I don’t think I’d trust it! Really though, I’ve hit more than my share of bumps along the way. Over a decade and a half of dedication to a career allows an entire spectrum of experiences, positive and negative. From artistic struggles, to those of a business owner/boss/leader, to work-life imbalance, to the ebb and flow of the economy….. you name it, I’ve got a story about it. Just like everything thought, duality is necessary and light can’t exist without dark. I’m incredibly grateful for all of the lessons I’ve learned, and I’m always finding new ways to appreciate and share the wisdom gained from them. In the beauty industry, ‘hustle culture’ is glorified. Beauty professionals wear burn out like a badge of honor, there has been so much value put on sacrificing yourself for your clients, your career, and your success. But that is not sustainable, and it isn’t the only way to survive in this industry. I fully believe that there is a reason for everything, and through the struggles I’ve faced I have learned the importance of filling my own cup first, so that I can care for others, use my gifts in integrity and honor the work I’m here to do! Nothing about an individual is by chance, we all choose our exact design for this life – strengths, quirks, wounds, likes and dislikes – every part. The fires we encounter aren’t given to us to destroy us, but to ignite our purpose and light the way to our soul’s calling. (P.S. this is something that I’m ALWAYS up for digging into with everyone who sits in my chair, hairapy sessions with me go deep baby!)

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve done a little bit of everything when it comes to hair, but my specialities are texture/razor cutting, creative/vivid color, special occasion styling, and hair extensions with multiple certifications in weft, tape, and k-tip installations. I like to say that I’m an ‘intuitive stylist’, I listen to the hair and allow it to be a collaborator which only adds to the personalization of the final look. I love to develop a close, trust based relationship with my client, working together to find their unique expression of self through their hair. The services that I offer are all genderless, booked and priced based ONLY on what is needed to achieve my client’s desired result. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I recognize the vulnerability one can feel during a salon visit, and the importance of feeling safe and accepted as you are. The privacy of my studio allows me to focus with intention on my time with my client, and is ideal for that kind of energetic exchange.
My most recent obsession has been on building an energy healing practice, and integrating that work into my work behind the chair. I offer energy healing sessions using a variety of modalities, with the option to either add on to a hair appointment, or to book as a stand alone service. I use reiki rituals regularly in my studio to create a safe and healing environment and keep it high-vibe! I am currently developing a couple of energy work centered offerings that I’m very excited to announce once they are ready. If you’re into learning more, follow me on instagram to catch the updates as I share them!!

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Follow me on instagram, like my posts, and share with someone you think would enjoy it!! I would love to connect on social media, and to hear if something I post strikes a chord with you.
I am always open to accepting new clients, however I believe that the client-stylist connection is paramount, and like all relationships, we have to be right for each other. My booking platform lists the services that I offer, along with an option to book a consultation either in person or via FaceTime. Anyone interested in becoming a client, I encourage to schedule a consultation, so that we can chat about your hair goals, and decide if I’m the right person to help you achieve them!

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Peach Mars Photography

Suggest a Story: VoyageMichigan is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories