We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alyson Steiner. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alyson below.

Alright, Alyson thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Looking back, what’s an important lesson you learned at a prior job?

When I started in, I have been in the beauty industry for 15 years. I have been a salon owner for the last three years. When I started in the beauty industry owning a salon was not really on my radar. As I worked behind the chair I experienced a few different salon environments which helped me to discern what I liked and disliked about the salon culture. I have always loved learning and chose to continue to learn about hair while adding business into my education. Taking stand alone classes, as well as in depth courses and working with consultants helped me to develop a personal vision for myself as a stylist.

As I became more clear in the vision for myself and the experience I wanted to create for my clients I learned that not all of my peers found the same things equally as valuable. This created some tension at the salon I was currently working at. My husband and I tried to find a solution to release the tension and continue to work at this salon. We continued to return to the idea of opening a salon of our own. To create a place where stylists were encouraged and mentored in growing their skill as a stylist but also to grow in other professional and personal ways. To become entrepreneurs, not just stylists.

In 2020 we had the opportunity to purchase an existing salon in a neighboring town; and we made the decision to purchase and start a salon of our own; pH5 Salon. We have had some challenges since starting but we are past the 3 year mark and continue to grow!

What I’ve learned is that you shouldn’t let others minimize your goals or visions. And stepping outside of your comfort zone can yield the change that you are seeking.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Hello, I’m Alyson, I am a lifetime Ohioan. I love the changes in seasons and the rural life. I live on a farm housing a variety of animals with my husband and 5(soon to be 6) children. Since I was young I was interested in the beauty industry. Constantly polishing my nails and trying new styles on my hair. I didn’t realize until the end of high school that I wanted to work in beauty. I went to beauty school with a friend and worked hard to learn all that I could. I was chosen as an intern at the top salon in my town right out of beauty school. At this salon I learned the value of good skills behind the chair and education. I love the smiles that happen at the end of an appointment; when a client sees the beauty in themselves that others see in them.

pH5 Salon offers precision haircutting, haircoloring services, seasonal color analysis, hair extensions nail services, skin care services and lash services. Helping clients to feel confident in themselves at any age and any life stage. Combining color analysis with hair services yields a flattering look for the client even on bad hair days. Whether you are someone who wants to spend a lot of time on your hair and/or makeup or prefer a wash and wear look. You are beautiful and I want to help you find your best look to help you live your life. I am proud that I have stayed true to my vision even when others do not align with it. By doing so I am changing the industry a little at a time.

At pH5 Salon it is our goal to help you find balance in your beauty regimen. Not everyone wants to spend a lot of time getting ready for the day; it is our desire to educate you on the things that are important to you. To allow you to embrace the world with confidence.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I had to make a pivot in my career as a hairstylist when I outgrew the salon I was working at. As I continued to educate myself on marketing, business techniques and customer service I began to have a vision that was not in alignment with the salon I was working in. I tried to endure and hope for the best but when it began to effect me professionally and more importantly personally I knew it was time make a change. This is when my husband and I decided to start the venture of salon ownership. Making this change was scary and exciting at the same time. But it has been a good choice, not long after opening I felt a strong positive shift in my mental and emotional state.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

My business partner is my husband, Steve. We met shortly after I became licensed in cosmetology on a blind date. His Aunt attended the same church as I did and gave him my phone number. Two months after doing so he finally called me; we went on our first date later that week. We hit it off immediately, staying at the restaurant for several hours. Our second date; a few days following, was just as successful. I went to work the day after our first date and told my co-workers that I was going to marry Steve. They had some concern that I was rushing into things. Steve and I continued to see each other quite a bit; within 3 months we were engaged and at 6 months we were married. We celebrated our 14th anniversary in 2023 and will welcome our 6th child into our family spring of 2024. Marriage is not always easy, and mixing business and marriage presents a whole new level of commitment. But Steve and I continue to support each other the best that we can and look forward to what the future has for us.

Contact Info:

• Website: ph5salon.com
• Instagram: ph5_salon
• Facebook: pH5 Salon
• Other: email: [email protected]

Image Credits
Megan Mitchell Creative