Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Mitchell.
Crystal, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my journey in the beauty industry because I’ve always loved teaching, mentoring, and helping others grow. After 6 years behind the chair, I took over Aspen Salon to create an environment that was more than just a workplace. I wanted it to be a space built on collaboration, education, and support. Over the years, Aspen has evolved into a thriving salon known for its kind, down-to-earth culture and commitment to excellence.
As the industry began to shift, I saw a growing need for independence and flexibility among beauty professionals, which led me to open The Tribe Salon Suites, a mentorship-based suite model that helps stylists start and grow their own businesses with confidence and support.
Today, my focus is on leadership, mentorship, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. It’s been an incredible journey of growth from being a stylist myself to now helping others build careers and businesses they 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?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. Owning and growing a salon means constantly learning, adapting, and evolving especially in an industry that changes so quickly. Some of the biggest challenges came with balancing the creative side of the business with the realities of leadership, operations, and finances. There were times I had to rebuild teams, rework systems, and even redefine what kind of culture I wanted to create.
Another challenge has been keeping up with generational shifts in the industry. New stylists often want more freedom and flexibility, so I had to rethink how to offer that while still maintaining structure, accountability, and consistency. Those challenges ultimately pushed me to grow as a leader and led to the mentorship-based model I use today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Aspen Salon?
Aspen Salon has been part of the Provo community for over 25 years and is known for its warm, down-to-earth culture and commitment to education. We specialize in creating beautiful, natural results that fit each guest’s lifestyle, but what truly sets us apart is our focus on growth both for our clients and our stylists. Education and mentorship are at the core of everything we do. Our team is constantly learning, collaborating, and supporting one another to deliver the best possible experience in a positive, welcoming environment.
Our sister brand, The Tribe Salon Suites, was created to expand that mission. It’s a mentorship-based salon suite model designed to help independent stylists start and grow their own businesses with confidence. We provide not just a beautiful space, but also business support, education, and community something that’s often missing in the independent salon world.
What I’m most proud of is the culture we’ve built. Whether it’s at Aspen or The Tribe, people feel genuinely cared for. We’ve created spaces where stylists can thrive, clients feel at home, and everyone grows together. That’s the heart of our brand connection, education, and empowerment.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I think luck has shown up in my journey in unexpected ways, both good and bad. The “bad luck” moments, like losing team members, economic challenges, or unexpected shifts in the industry, often ended up being turning points that forced me to grow, adapt, and get clearer on my vision. In hindsight, those challenges were the things that pushed me to build stronger systems and a healthier culture.
On the other side, I’ve also been incredibly lucky or I prefer the word blessed, to have crossed paths with amazing people mentors, team members, and clients who have believed in me and supported the vision from the beginning. I think real success is a mix of hard work, persistence, and being ready when blessings show up.
Pricing:
- Haircuts start at $55
- Color services start at $90
- Blonding Services start at $115
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aspensalonutah.com/
- Instagram: @aspensalon
- Facebook: Aspen Salon
