We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Cassidy Maestas a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Cassidy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

The biggest risk I have taken since becoming an industry professional was starting my own business. 10 years ago I started cosmetology school not sure what I was doing, except I knew I wanted to to have a positive impact on my community. After walking down a few avenues in the industry I ended up working at SportClips and found my absolute passion. Barbering. 5 years latter I was ready to open my own business in order to provide the greatest experience to my clients and build a business that the city could promote and support. Growing up on the Eastside of the track I never thought I would be able to become a dual licensed business owner. I learned years ago that the saying ” you miss every shot you do not take”. That saying has been the forefront of how I move in my life! I do not take unnecessary risks but I calculate and make a plan before I “jump out of the airplane”. My dad has always pushed me to be the best version of myself, he taught me not to give up and always be honest in all you do. Trusting God and His plan, so when He puts the dreams and passion in my heart I know that the risks will always be worth it. I have successfully owned and operated Grateful Heads Barber Studio for 5 years. I have a community of over 300 hundred clients and the city in which I work continues to support and uplift my business! Take the risks. Love what you do. Believe in yourself.

Cassidy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Cassidy I am a dual licensed cosmotologist/barber. I live in Colorado and I have owned and operated my business for 5 years.
I started in my industry 10 years ago after getting sober off drugs and alcohol. I had no plan for my life and was just coasting. Joining the industry was not easy. The amount of self-discipline and self-motivation makes most stay stagnant. Because it comes down to how much you are willing to put in everyday.
I have always been an artist but I never knew how to make art my life while providing for my family. I have been taking care of my dad since I was 13 years old. So every decision I make impacts him and our home. While I was starting my career I realized that what I was doing was art! I had found through Gods grace the art craft that would be able to provide security to my life and family.
I am a barber. I create sculptures in hair and uplift those in my chair! Cutting is just one part of my craft. Shaving, facials, waxing, steam towels, decompression, relaxation, comfort, friendship, safe space. My goal is always to provide whatever it is my clients need. We live in a world where it is hard to have a space for ourselves. I am blessed to be able to provide just that. Offering the array of services I am able to offer the exact setting and foundation that each one of my clients can have a customized experience. When each individual sits in the chair their experience is theirs alone. I believe we are all in need of just that. A place where you can be yourself and fell safe enough to be vulnerable. What sets me apart from some of my peers is my willingness to push myself every single day to be better to do better to bring wholesomeness to each experience. Staying authentic and genuine in all rooms and spaces. Creating a safe space for all. Bringing the most beautiful parts of each client/friend out into the world one cut at a time
I am extremely proud of how far I have come in the last 10 years. With difficulties at the doorstep, global pandemic, divorce amongst other tribulations. I am able and still actively working on bring the best to each person I interact with. I take the lessons of all things good and bad and use them as stepping stones to lead and guide my lifes trajectory. Grateful Heads Barber (G.H.B) stands motto is creating, a kinder more loving community. I want everyone reading this to walk away knowing you are valuable. You are seen. You always have place at G.H.B

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I believe the best way to support all creatives in our current climate is understanding the time, dedication, and long hours that go into each creative filed. There are hours of behind the scenes that lead up to the one project, one haircut, one art piece. We live through various creative avenues and we bring the creations to life. We see the world from a different perspective and each one of us are unique in how we see it.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal was to have a successful business.
But…
My mission is to crate the space the world needs most. Love, compassion, kindness, vulnerability. Building a collective of community members to share the light.
PLUR.
Peace. Love. Unity. Respect.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gratefulheadsbarbershop.com
• Instagram: @gratefulheadsbarber

Image Credits

Tayla Henry
Kelsey Gabler