We had the good fortune of connecting with Allison Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Allison, how do you think about risk?
When you put the work in and take the necessary leaps, growth comes from that, so risk is what makes being a hairstylist exciting. We are constantly taking risks whether it’s a new color formulation, a new marketing idea, or even taking the plunge and started a new career all together. With risk comes rewards and that’s something I’ve always believed in.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m lucky to say my road hasn’t been too bumpy. The start of my journey was probably the hardest. My parents have always given me freedom to be adventurous but when it was between going to college or going to beauty school, I knew I was at the beginning of an uphill battle. I actually ended up going to Orange Coast College for a year majoring in business before I convinced my parents to tour Paul Mitchell. Disagreeing with family is never an easy thing, but with that came patience and perseverance that I carry with me still. The best thing I ever did was taking the risk and fighting for what I knew was meant for me. Once I was in the salon I knew all the work and time I had put in was worth stepping into Madison Salon for the first time. What I’m post proud of is the relationships I have with my clients and the foundation of those relationships. The start of that is listening during your first consultation with them. 4/5 times I meet a new client who tells me they didn’t feel heard or listened to at their last salon. That blows my mind! My job as a hairstylist is to listen, to ask, to deliver. If we aren’t listening how can we expect to deliver the desired results our clients are looking for? Honesty is the next huge thing for me with my clients. I will never sacrifice the integrity of the hair and will always be vocal about the healthiest ways to go about achieving an ideal end result. My clients appreciate that because In doing so I’m looking out for their best interest and they enjoy knowing all of their options and where they could lead us. It’s all a journey and I’m lucky to be on it with some pretty amazing women! The purpose for what we do is to lift each other up. As a stylist today, I’m grateful my job is to make each and every woman who sits in my chair feel beautiful, confident, and important. I love getting to celebrate their highs and wins with them and also being a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen. Life can be hard and we all need those safe spaces. I’m happy to be that safe space for my clients!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to laguna beach! I always love walking up and down pacific coat highway and stopping in art studios and shops. Most of them switch out artists regularly so there is always something new to see. Sky loft is always a great place for lunch or happy hour with its gorgeous views of the ocean. It doesn’t hurt that there is a delicious gelato shop right down stairs either!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many beautiful friends and family supported and encouraged me to get where I am today. First I have to thank my parents for allowing me to expand from a business major to a creative career. Without their love and support I wouldn’t be where I am today. Thank you to my amazing fiancée Aaron who is my daily support system in all things work and life. My friends for hanging in there while I went through the long hours at school and assisting. Last but not least thank you to one of my Paul Mitchell educators Linda McElroy for introducing me to my home away from home Madison Salon. These last few years have been nothing short of a dream!

Instagram: Allidoeshair