Today we’d like to introduce you to Karly Neff.
Karly, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Growing up, my mother was a hairdresser – I watched her take care of her friends, family, my sisters and me. She would cut my dad’s hair in the kitchen on the same dining room chair every time. That’s where it all started for me; In that kitchen. I just remember it feeling so normal for me, so comfortable.
I went on to complete high school in 2011, graduated cosmetology school in early 2013 (I took a year in between for college.) I lived in a military part of Texas and started at my first official hairdressing opportunity in a dual-licensed barbershop. I did majority of men’s cuts and children’s only. The truth is – color scared me out of my mind. I knew cutting – it made so much sense to me.
In 2016 my life changed forever. I had the pleasure of working with/for Cynthia Diersen at her salon in Cypress. She was on my list. She was 3rd on my “in the next five years” list. That opportunity was the beginning for me in so many ways. She trained me in everything I do. Not only did she make me a better hairdresser, she pushed me to become a GREAT one. I built my clientele on prebooks and requests and in no time (eight months give or take) I was providing a life for myself that “old me” never imagined. We traveled the country together working with Farouk Systems Inc. and we loved every second. The color, the music, stage, backstage, launch parties, you name it – we did it. And then everything changed again.
After four amazing years with Cynthia, Zack and the team (Monica, Lily, Jess, Bobby, Michelle) I had a crushing realization that it was time to lift my roots. I needed to “re-pot.” I had learned so much and the thought of leaving crippled me. They had been through everything with me – divorce, bad dates, nights out, Hurricane Harvey, countless “good-luck” injuries, and everything in between. They are my family.
They were over the moon for me to expand and become my own business – and it didn’t take long. I left my key on a Thursday, and Friday I moved into my current suite in Vintage Park Salon Boutique. I had been open for four weeks until the COVID-19 pandemic.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with The Salon Willow – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
The Salon Willow opened on February 19th, 2020. I am a one chair salon. I specialize in cut, color-correction, blondes and education. I have worked hard to cultivate my brand as an artist – but perception is everything. To my guests, I am known for my energy, my detailed colors, and my warmth (and the free wine.) To my peers, I am known for my love of public speaking/education, drive, and planning. To my family, I am none of those things, because around them I am a complete clown.
I am proud of what I’ve created out of what – four years ago – felt like nothing.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I used to live in the Galleria and I LOVED it! Close to nightlife and my favorite Sunday brunch spots. I was so close to all of the highways and I could get anywhere in 30 minutes (except the grocery store.) HEB was 2 miles from me but it took an hour to get past every light. I really wish we had more transportation options in the suburbs to get to the city, Uber gets awkward after 15 minutes.
Pricing:
- Color Correction 350+
- Blondes 180+
- Cuts 57+
- Smoothing treatments 230+
Contact Info:
- Address: 118 Vintage Park Blvd suite 67, Houston, 77070
- Website: https://square.site/book/AD0G6J78KXXV3/the-salon-willow-houston-tx
- Phone: 2817501565
- Email: thesalonwillow@yahoo.com
- Instagram: TheSalonWillow and KarlyColours
Suggest a story: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
