Today we’d like to introduce you to Katelyn Nguyen Hillier.
Hi Katelyn Nguyen, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
From a young age, I was captivated by the world of hairstyling. I spent countless hours cutting my Barbie dolls’ hair and knew early on that I wanted to make a career out of it. I graduated from Dickinson High School, where I began the cosmetology program during my junior year. By the time I graduated, I had earned my cosmetology degree and license, ready to step directly into the hair industry.
I started my career with a large franchise salon, traveling and working with them for 10 years. Over time, I realized the corporate environment wasn’t for me. The constant pressure for productivity and retail sales didn’t align with my values. I’ve always loved doing hair, and I only recommend products when someone truly needs them or asks for advice—I never wanted to be the pushy salesperson clients often dread.
One morning, I woke up and decided I was ready for a change. Half-jokingly, I mentioned that I should check the space across the street from the salon I worked in. To my surprise, there was a “For Lease” sign in the window. I called the number, scheduled a meeting, and took a leap of faith. I didn’t have a business degree or even know how to write a business plan, but I had passion—and people who believed in me. Instead of going to the bank for a loan, I cashed into everything I had and had some amazing people in my life came in and lend me whatever else I needed and told me “We believe in you.” I paid back every dime.Within just a few months of getting everything together, Island Hair Retreat opened its doors—now 14 years strong. I not only love what I do, but I also met the love of my life, who sat in my chair during that first year. He has supported me through every decision and does so much for the shop day in and day out. He also gave me one beautiful bonus daughter and blessed us with two amazing children of our own.🩷
Our motto has always been simple: provide great service at affordable prices for the entire family. We chose not to take appointments—just walk-ins. Many people doubted the system, but we knew that one late arrival could throw an entire schedule off. Fourteen years later, our first-come, first-served model has proven itself. I have a total of 6 station that all my stylist get paid by commission. Including myself who is behind the chair full-time. Thanks to unwavering support and loyal customers, Island Hair Retreat is still going strong.
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?
We were impacted by the COVID shutdown just like everyone else. In the hair industry, there are always slower seasons and then the rushes where we’re so busy we barely have time for lunch. But we’ve learned to take it all in stride. As we always say, it’s the calm before the storm
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I do a little bit of everything—cuts, color, waxing, and styling—and I truly enjoy each service equally. But if there’s one area where my natural talent stands out, it’s foiling. I’m exceptionally fast, able to complete foils in nearly half the time it takes many others. At a previous salon, we constantly ran foiling and highlight specials, so I became so practiced that it now feels second nature—almost like I could do it in my sleep.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Growing up, we didn’t have much money, but my parents always found simple ways to make our days special. One of my favorite memories was going to the mall as a family. We’d walk around, people-watch, and enjoy the fresh air conditioning. What stands out most, though, is sitting outside a hair salon with a Cinnabon in hand, watching the stylists work their magic. Even then, I was mesmerized—those moments were the spark that lit my passion for doing hair.
Pricing:
- Hair cut starting for men $23 and up
- Haircut for women starting at $35
- Waxing $12
- Highlights starting at $120
- Kids cut starting at $16
Contact Info:
- Email: Islandhairretreat@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16ZzpaSfcU/
Image Credits
BJH PHOTOGRAPHY
