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Rising Stars: Meet Emily Thompson of Grand Rapids

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Thompson

Hi Emily, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in the salon world, I was surrounded by the hum of blow dryers, the scent of fresh product, and the sight of transformations happening right before my eyes. Watching my mother Penny Thompson a professional with decades of experience—help people feel their best planted a seed of inspiration in me early on.

By the time I entered cosmetology school, it felt like second nature. I quickly found my niche in bold colors and edgy, creative cuts and color corrections. But what truly set my heart on fire wasn’t just the art of hair—it was the connections. I realized that making my guests feel seen, heard, and at home was just as important as the styles I created.

Now, with your own chair and a growing clientele, you carry on your family’s legacy while forging your own path. Your space isn’t just a salon—it’s a sanctuary where people feel safe to express themselves and leave with not just great hair, but a renewed sense of confidence and joy. This deep commitment to making people feel welcome is what makes you stand out.

Does this align with the story you’d like to share?

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I took a year off and quickly realized the salon is the only place I want to be. It’s home. I have worked for the same salon owner Kelly Roper and she has made coming back such a easy transition.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m most proud of my color correction/ restoration skills. I’ve had guests try to do color at home and as we’ve learned it doesn’t end well usually, the confidence and trust built after being able to help someone who feels there’s no going back is beyond amazing. I’ve also become a dream catchers certified extension artist. With that I’m able to help others struggling with thinning/ growth

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My mom threw a salon birthday part for me. Just me and a few of my friends I think I was maybe 10. We got deep conditioning masks that smelled like cookie dough and styling. The salon was in the mall so you know we got to shop, I hope I’m blessed with a daughter so I can recreate some of my favorite memories

Pricing:

  • Cut & style 57$
  • Color corrections 100 per hr
  • Blonding starts at 150
  • Fashion color 100 per hr
  • Treatments starting at 45

Contact Info:

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