Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Hansen
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up I was always at a salon. My mother was a Master Esthetician and worked part-time. It was so incredible to see her do something she loved. After school I would go with her to the salon while she finished up a few more services. I would wait for her either in the lobby or outside of her suite.
The salon was two stories high and the main level was the hair salon. I enjoyed waiting in the lobby where I could watch all the hairstylists work. It was my favorite spot. Seeing the stylists and being surrounded by that atmosphere left a strong impression. At just 12 years old I knew I would be a hairstylist one day.
A core memory of mine is when I had the opportunity shadow my moms hairstylist. Sitting at her station, I watched intently. She worked her trade so easily. As a token of my experience she reached in her drawer, found a coloring brush and gave it to me. The excitement I felt was overwhelming but I knew then that I was manifesting something incredible. To this day, that brush sits in my memory box. A simple reminder I’m doing what I love.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In the beginning of my career I faced many hardships. My mental health was the biggest obstacle of those, but I knew I had to learn from it. Like most business owners, there is always the likelihood of struggle. It’s the test all entrepreneurs must face to gain success they hope for.
Seven Years ago was my first year of hair school at Taylor Andrews Academy. At that time they had just incorporated night school as an option. Due to that change I could work a full-time job. My schedule would start from 7am-4:30pm at work and then night school from 5pm-9pm five days a week. In my last year of school I was offered a part-time job I knew would put me ahead. A hairstylist who worked in this industry for 35 years hired me to be her assistant. December of 2023 marked 5 years working for her. It was one of the best decisions I made in my career.
All these years I was constantly surrounded by successful women. In the beginning was my mother. She owned her business as a Master Esthetician and now a large business in doTerra. During became my sister. She created her own clothing line called So Sugarloaf. Later became other business women who hired me to work for them over the past few years. All powerful examples of where determination will take you.
As you know, we’re big fans of FRIA Salon and Boutique. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Currently I work as a booth renter at Relik Salon and Spa in Orem city. I have been in this industry a total of 6 years now, and I plan on continuing years to come. Fortunately I changed my work ethic significantly over the years because now my own business is successful with a full clientele. I service in haircuts, hair coloring, blonding, lived in color, extensions, bridal hair and bridal makeup. As of recent I now teach an apprentice which has been a great addition.
My father told me this phrase one day while I was still in college prior to hair school- ” Find something you’re willing to work hard for.” His saying has been the foundation of my career. To his surprise it didn’t turn out to be a diploma from a University like he was expecting but instead another kind.
You can find me at Instagram.com/friahair to inquire for a service, for apprenticing and to see my work..
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I am a major believer in networking. Meeting like minded people is the best way to improve yourself. Luckily for me I am completely surrounded still by so many entrepreneurs. Many of my friends have their own businesses and I have been able to outreach to other successful business owners through association and social media. Connection is key. Socializing has always been easy for me, so connecting with all sorts of personalities energizes me.
Another important resource is family. My husband is always there for me whether I need a voice of reason or encouragement. He’s a go-getter like myself. We both work in the careers we love and our goals line up to create a good life for our growing family. I’ll be turning thirty this year. It marks a special year for me because I see all of my past connect to the success I have today. I have better health, better discipline, and a better view of what’s ahead of me now.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vagaro.com/reliksalon
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/friahair
Image Credits
Megan Sollis Photo
Website: megansollisphoto.pixiset.com
