Today we’d like to introduce you to Carli Ambrose.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My career actually started in high school. Like many young adults, I knew from early on that the traditional school path was not for me. Luckily, I had amazing support from my parents and a district where there were actually options. I went to a technical high school for cosmetology but ultimately dropped out the beginning of my junior year. It was not a failure but more a redirect. I continued my education by going to Blaine Beauty School during the day and night school at night to earn a diploma. While also working as a waitress. I graduated from both schools about 6 months later, I was 17.
I began looking for a salon that I felt would help me grow as a stylist and I would end up working there for 10 years. The first 5 years of my career were fairly unnoteworthy. I was learning a lot from the owner of the salon Jonathan Williams and grew an amazing clientele, however, I began to dream of bigger goals. I started to put myself out there and step out of my comfort zone. Even though I felt I was too young, I applied to become an educator for an international color company. I did not get the job. A couple years later, equipped with the knowledge from the first interview and some more experience, I tried again. This time, I was one of 4 out of 20 to get the job! I began a journey as an Educator for Goldwell, while still working behind the chair. I received unparalleled training and my confidence grew tremendously. I was able to attend their Academy’s in NYC + LA and really broaden my horizons.
With my new found confidence I began pursuing other goals. I auditioned to become a part of The Unicorn Tribe, which is a collective of artist and was accepted into the Tribe. They offered me a support network both personally and professionally, advice, a shoulder to lean on without judgment. And because of the Tribe, I will soon fulfill another goal — to teach at an international Hair Show in front of thousands alongside people I’ve admired and looked up to. I will be at Premiere Orlando this June.
Social media has made the Tribe possible and I started to view my own social media platforms as more of a tool than just socialization. I created my brand, Lowlights, and Leopard, and I started to work it! I created professional IG + FB pages and put a lot of work into them. Instagram changed my career. It changed how clients were able to find me and how I was able to educate them. I entered and even won some contest. It changed how I was about to connect with other professionals. I “met” mentors and amazing people who have strongly influenced my career. And, I continue to do so.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Nothing worth having comes easy, right! Has it been smooth, not exactly. However it has been good, and I’ve had great support. The road has become much smoother in my adult life. High school was tough for me, as it is for so many. I was “smart” enough but recognized high school doesn’t exactly prepare you for the real world and there are more options than doctor, lawyer, teacher. I didn’t fit in. My aunts and uncles criticized my mom for the things she “let me do”. But, my mom and I had a strong relationship and I’m blessed that she recognized that I was different. Not better or worse not good or bad but all kids are different! My dad told me, “you can be anything you want, a doctor, a business owner, a cashier, just be the best at it”.
My advice to young woman is to follow your dreams no matter how difficult a road it seems. Hard times create tough people. Nothing will be handed to you and no one owes you anything. Some people’s road will be easier and life will hand them things, worry about yourself. The truth always comes out on time. You will lose friends and possibly even relationships when you put yourself and your goals first. You weigh your options if you feel it’s worth it — it’s because it is! Create a support system you trust and respect. Allow someone to be a mentor, you often find this person unexpectedly and are oddly drawn to them. This will be invaluable. I thought I was so mature and really I was! But wisdom comes with experience and when you’re young, you usually don’t have much experience. We all have something to teach one another, young and old. Failures are not the end of the road, they will forever be your greatest teacher. You will learn more from a loss than you ever will a win.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Lowlights and Leopard story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a hairstylist, I cut and color hair. However, my passion is color. I’ve spent many hours on my continued education as both a stylist and educator. I am probably most known for my unicorn hair (multicolored hair) since this has won me contest and is most appealing to social media. But the greatest compliment from my clients is that I actually listen to what they want — and when it’s not good for them I educate them on why and offer alternatives. I am honest when I don’t think I can achieve something. I am proud of my reputation and my customer service. I am a teacher at heart and love educating my clients and creating strong relationships. I believe this is one of the things that sets me apart, however, the industry is evolving and there is so much talent out there now! It’s about finding someone you vibe with.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
Instagram is my number one app for keeping my brand alive, keeping up with trends and reaching clients. Facebook is useful for all this as well.
Art & Fear is a powerful book for any artist.
Maintaining a personal life and doing things I love, like travel, help me do my best work!
Pricing:
- Haircut $50 + up
- Single process 75 + up
- Full BabyLight $175 + up
- Unicorn Hair $80-$100/ hour
Contact Info:
- Address: The Beauty Bar
699 E Broadway
Boston, MA 02127 - Website: www.thebeautybarsb.com
- Email: lowlightsandleopard@yahoo.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/lowlightsandleopard
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/lowlightsandleopard
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
