Meet Heather Holland of Melrose

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Holland. 

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?
I decided in fourth grade that I wanted to work as a hairstylist. I always loved going to the salon and I admired stylists’ ability to make others feel confident and beautiful. I moved to Nashville in 2009 to pursue a career in the beauty industry. I completed my Cosmetology program in 2010 and have worked in the industry ever since. I have worked as a salon associate, similar to an apprentice, as well as behind the chair as a stylist, and I have an instructor’s license. 

For many years, I worked in a traditional salon environment. I loved the team environment and having the ability to collaborate with others. Working in such an environment really helped me to grow my technical skills, as well as my confidence. 

In the era of Covid, I found myself craving my own space to grow into. I wanted a space that was unique to me, and that would make my clients feel comfortable. With many people being wary of being around others, a private studio turned out to be a great fit. The journey as a business owner has just begun for me, but I am so grateful to have to opportunity to be on this path, serving my clients, and growing as an independent stylist. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has had a lot of ups and downs. I have felt very supported by my family, especially my husband, and my clients. As with any new adventure, there are a lot of learning curves. Starting from ground zero has been a humbling experience. 

There have definitely been a few struggles so far. I am learning how to grow my reach on social media platforms. I have found that social media marketing is never the same from one day to the next. Whether it’s Instagram Reels, stories, or posts, what is exciting and engaging one day might flop the next. I have used social media platforms as a secondary tool in the past, but now, using it to actively try to grow my business has been a challenge. 

Another challenge I have faced is being totally by myself. Whether it’s needing some creative inspiration or wanting to bounce an idea off another stylist, not having that immediately available has been an adjustment. I have had to trust my instincts more. This has shown me that my instincts are good, and I need to follow my gut and not rely so heavily on input from others. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a hairstylist, specializing in hair color and blonding techniques. I love to create dimensional, lived-in looks that grow out nicely, leaving my guests with low-maintenance, but beautiful color. I also believe that a haircut tailored to the client’s specific hair fabric is key in creating the total style. 

I am most proud of my customer service skills, and I believe this sets me apart from others. I not only want to provide beautiful hair, but I want my guests to feel like they are my number one priority from the time they enter my studio until they leave, and all communication in between. I understand that my guests are the foundation to my business, and they deserve to be treated as such. I wholeheartedly believe that part of getting amazing results on the hair is a reflection of good customer service throughout the whole process. I strive to make everybody who sits in my chair feel valued and appreciated. 

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Aside from having a small business, I am a wife and mom. A large part of opening my own studio was to provide myself with the freedom and flexibility to be more available for my family. 

My favorite thing about being a hairstylist is that I have to ability to witness so many joyful moments in people’s lives, and be a cheerleader for you, whether you know it or not. I always love and appreciate when clients loop me in on exciting things happening- engagements, weddings, babies, new jobs, ALL OF IT. I also do not take for granted that clients often come to see me during their hardest moments and trust me enough to share those burdens as well. 

Pricing:

• Blonding Services – $100/hour
• Root Touch Up and Haircut – $160
• All Over Color and Haircut- $200
• Haircut and Style- $75

Contact Info:

• Email: Heather@oakandiris.com
• Website: Oakandiris.com
• Instagram: @nashville.stylist @oakandirisnashville

Image Credits
Corey Allen
Heather Holland