Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Halbert.
Hi Danielle, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I was always a weird, offbeat kid in school. I had crazy hair and wore a dog chain and wild clothes. I always loved doing my hair and thought I’d make it a career. I went to cosmetology school in 2010, graduated with honors, and got hired by a matrix salon, but by 2013, I left the field due to personal circumstances. Flash forward to 2019, I was working at a corporate job I hated, and I quit my job with no plan. I had a friend who managed a chain salon, and I asked if I could work there and started my clientele all over. I restarted my career mainly as a corrective colorist. I ultimately ended up booth renting closer to my hometown after a few months, and then 5 months later, Covid hit. I hit the ground running when we reopened and didn’t slow down. The other girls and I were slammed for weeks. I kept building clients and started focusing on social media marketing to advertise for myself. For the next 7 months, I worked late nights and weekends and took every job that came my way. By 2021 I was ready to open my salon suite and left the salon I had been at. I was terrified but also excited because this was my dream. I had always wanted to own my salon, so I opened Styled by Danielle Halbert. I mainly focus on color, although I do many other things. Natural lived in color and blonding are my specialty. I am a Pravana-certified colorist and also hold certifications for advanced hair coloring and cutting techniques. I love giving people beautiful hair. Seeing the look on their faces when you spin them around is just pure joy. A job that feels like something other than a job is a plus. I’ve been blessed to meet amazing people in the industry that I have been able to learn. To be in this industry, you have to be passionate about it. If you enjoy it, then it will show in your work.
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
Covid was a huge hit because, like many stylists, we went without pay for weeks. When things opened, the supply chains could not fill product demand. It made you learn to be creative in a lot of ways.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a stylist and salon owner. I specialize in all things hair color. More specifically lived in natural color and blonding. I am known for making my clients laugh because I always have a crazy story to tell. My clients are like my friends and family, so that’s how I treat them. I’ve had clients that have been with me since 2011. I’m proud of the business I’ve built, hands down. I started my business with only $700 in the bank, and it has flourished over the last 4 years into what it is today. That is my life’s greatest achievement. What sets me apart is just being myself. That is the best way to stand out. Don’t be afraid to be unique in a world full of cookie-cutter people.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Covid has taught all of us how precious life is. So don’t take things so seriously, especially your hair. Do you want blue hair? Do it! Do you want that buzz cut? Do it! I have had long hair, and I’ve also been bald. Life can be over so quickly, so do what brings you joy.
Contact Info:
- Website: danielle-halbert.square.site
- Instagram: styledbydaniellehalbert
- Facebook: Styled by Danielle Halbert
