Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelah Coleman.
Hi Shelah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
OutSpoken Headquarters was forged in the fire of a crummy childhood in poverty and abusive stepdads and a mom who struggled to be so amazing. As a child I was the protector of my family despite being the only girl and being the baby. I was always bold enough to call out abusive behavior, volatile words, and inappropriate actions. As an adult, I married a military man and have maintained my ability to always speak up for those who didn’t have a voice or who lost their voice. Our mission at OutSpoken Headquarters is to always provide a way for people to speak up and speak out. We are inclusive and welcoming to all genders, ages, races, religions, and backgrounds. We are a safe haven for those who need a voice. Hard work, determination, and never listening to other peoples “no” or “you can’t” got me here.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, but, all the roads that lead to the most beautiful destinations are the roughest. The earliest struggle was naysayers. I never shared my vision, and when I finally did I was met with concern and doubt from others. It hit me like a fist to the gut. It came from some of the closest people to me. Then of course came the costs, the overhead, the financials. I Johnny Cashed it though. One piece at a time. I didn’t care that it wasn’t perfect when I first opened. I just cared that is was OPEN. Getting people to work has been a struggle in this day and age. Finding people and keeping them is even harder. The first year of a business is the hardest because you are LEARNING. What works. What doesn’t. So it’s constant change and either people get on board or they jump ship. It’s a learning process. As the captain of the ship, you take the burden and you carry it all. People don’t understand and realize that.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Not only am I the owner but Im also the main stylist at the salon. People come from all over Washington State to have me do their hair. I specialize in lived in blonding, A-line haircuts.. layers, perms, and Bridal Styling. I take so much pride in my work but also in the connections that I build it each client. The relationship matters to me and I will check on you if I haven’t heard from you in a while. I build genuine connections and encourage relaxation and self care.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Gosh, So many people deserve credit. My mom and step father. They encouraged me the entire way and NEVER have waivered on that. All my former co workers, and bosses who contributed to my talent by teaching me techniques, hacks, and tricks. My original 4 who opened OHQ with me. The team that is here now. They are so amazing and dedicated. I cannot be more grateful. Their talents and their drive is BEYOND my wildest dreams. My handful of friends who truly show up, show out, and love me even in my chaotic moments. My dear friend and realtor who encouraged me every second of every day and never once lost faith in MY dream. All my clients who moved to this location with me. The ones who I have since met who give me all the feels. Most importantly my husband and my sons who are my constant. They are my umbrella in every storm and my rainbow afterwards. I couldn’t do any of this with out them. My biggest role model was my neighbor when I was 7. She has a home salon and I would go over there and watch her for hours. I couldn’t get enough. I still talk to her. Ive sat in her chair several times in the past few years and just soaked up all of her goodness. She is my biggest role model in this industry. I am ADORED Kevin Auction and my mom got me his books as a team and I was transfixed. I wanted to BE him. I wanted to emulate his career.
Pricing:
- $100 Bridal Hair
- $650 OutSpoken Transformation
- $100 Special Effects Makeup
- $70 Haircut
Contact Info:
- Website: www.outspokenheadquarters.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/outspoken_headquarters
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086283415314
- Other: https://linktr.ee/outspokenheadquarters
Image Credits
Shelah Coleman