What is your occupation?

I’m the founder and one of the owners of Midwest Beauty House. It’s been a crazy beautiful thing watching my dream come to life. For me, it’s akin to becoming a mother. You are so in love when you meet the thing that you dreamed about, that you would never want to give it back, but no one could ever prepare you for the experience. I wear a million hats. Most importantly, I am in the business of people. My staff and all the lovely people that walk through my doors are what drives me. My hope is always that walking into one of our locations, that you really feel like you’ve found that relative’s house that was your favorite place growing up. I want you to have community and a home at any of our locations.

When it comes to my trade, being a beauty operator/barber is in my blood. My grandma was a hair dresser in the 1940’s. I started telling people when I was 9 that I wanted to do hair when I grew up. I specialize in cutting, especially those curls. I feel that my eye for hair has changed over the years. Don’t get me wrong, I love color but my favorite thing is to give someone a good cut that fits them and their hair type that they can wear with ease. I also am a make-up artist and formal styling for weddings is a passion of mine. I love helping make the dream come true.

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

One reason I created MBH was because there wasn’t a salon in the area that fit all of my specialties and interests. I wanted to create a business where other artists, like me, would feel encouraged to pursue their passions and specialties and be allowed to pursue the kind of career that they want.

How long have you been a Beauty Operator?

I’ve clocked 18 years total in the industry already. I started in high school as a receptionist and started training for hair the minute I turned 18.

What is your favorite MBH shop memory?

The day my neon sign went up in the window of my first shop. It made the dream real. I’ll never forget what that felt like.

What do you love most about doing hair and makeup?

I’m a maker. I have to always be creating something. Hair is a great outlet for my creative personality. I also do it for the people. Two days are never the same. The memories and relationships are priceless.

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

I draw style inspiration from lots of different places. If you look at both of my shops, it is very obvious that I love old things. I draw inspiration from everywhere though. Nature, textiles, images, other art forms. I don’t have one specific style icon. If anything, I am always playing with my personal esthetic. I don’t think my esthetic should ever define me. It’s just one expression of a part of who I am. Most of my current role models are the rad ass 55+ ladies in my life that are kicking butt and living large, but still humble enough to admit that none of us know everything.

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

I keep getting more and more minimal. I use all natural and organic beauty products whenever possible. That’s why I chose the lines that we carry at MBH.

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

I was born in Madison and it’s my home. I joke that I can’t commit to a lot of things, but when I bought my house and opened my business, I chose to marry Madison. I’m in love with Madison and we are in a committed relationship. Like any relationship, it’s not perfect, but there are so many good people here.

What is another favorite local business of yours?

Sooo many! I love this question, but I feel like I won’t do all my business owner friends justice if I start listing and leave some out. If you own a small business in Madison, I probably love you.

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

I love getting my nails done. It’s always been the one beauty service I could receive and it doesn’t feel like work. It makes me feel more put together. I also, like everyone, have a hard time taking time to myself. It’s time where someone takes care of me. We all need someone else to take care of us every once in a while.

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

I chose the slogan, so I could go on and on forever about better beauty culture, but one thing I like about it is that it is open-ended. I’ve loved hearing my staff and clients define what it means for them. That’s what I think is important. Let’s all strive for better beauty. What that means to you isn’t going to be what it means to the person next to you but they are all the right answer.

follow alice

What is your occupation? 

I am the Administrative Business Manager at MBH.  I have always had a passion for creativity and feel so lucky to be a part of MBH. Not only do I get to be a part of and witness creativity on a daily basis, but I also get to utilize my interpersonal and organizational skill sets. I’ve got a knack for detail and some might say I am a bit of a perfectionist, but I thrive on being busy and putting forth my utmost best self in all that I do! 

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I love Alice and the MBH team! I have known Alice for well over 10 years and have always been inspired by her talent and drive and I am so excited to be a part of the MBH team!  

What is your favorite MBH shop memory?

MBH provides such a comfortable and open space. I love feeling right at home when I am there and the company and conversations are always great!   

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

Honestly, I am inspired by anyone who exudes confidence, whether it be fashion/lifestyle/personality/etc. Confident, yet humble. That’s my jam. Be you, be proud, and live your life. 

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

My most used beauty product...hmmmm...currently it’s a toss up between evo’s head mistress cuticle sealer and cassius clay. If I am not using one on my hair, I am using the other OR even better, using both! I like to use the head mistress cuticle sealer prior to blow drying and then I use the cassius clay to finish!

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

I grew up in the Midwest and Madison has been my home for the past 16 years (minus a short stint of living in Chicago). I love Madison because it has the feel of a small town with the sense of community, but also the many conveniences of city-living. There is something for everyone here and my favorite part—people are so friendly!  

What is another favorite local business of yours?

Oh, this is a tough one! There are so many amazing local businesses in Madison and so many wonderful business owners! I am going to list a few here, but please know that if you are not listed here, it does not mean I love you any less! My “favorites” depend on my mood, but one of my all-time favorite restaurants in Madison is Himal Chuli (be right back, heading there now haha). Then there’s Bloom Bake Shop, Willy Street Co-op, Gail Ambrosius, Nutkrack, The Century House, Madison Modern Market, and I could go on and on!

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

I think it is extremely important for all of us to take a little break, recharge, and do something special that is just for YOU. Self-care is one of the best things we can do for ourselves! We owe it to ourselves to carve out a specific chunk of time on the regular for some pampering to recharge and provide a boost of energy and confidence. When I dedicate that special time for me, whether it’s to get a manicure, facial, haircut, or other beauty service--that is my ME time. I get to take a break from the external world and just be in the moment. Life is often quite fast-paced for me, so it is nice to get that time to focus solely on me. 

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Better beauty culture encompasses everything from the inside out—soul, mind, and body, and doing our best to devote the time and energy to be our best and healthiest self and share those ideals with others, offering support and encouragement. 

What is your occupation? 

Beauty Operator - specializing in hair and makeup. Love anything to do with color! 

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I was looking for a change, from running my own salon. After talking with a dear friend, the opportunity arose, and I decided to go for it. I’m looking forward to being surrounded by people who are just as passionate about beauty inside and out as I am. I’m even more excited to learn new things from all the creative minds I’ll be working with. 

How long have you been a Beauty Operator?

I’ve been in the industry for over 17 years. Working behind the chair, licensed for 14+ years now. 

What is your favorite MBH shop memory?

One just happened recently that made my heart proud. To see fellow operators formulate a new color that none of us had really experimented with. It made me feel so great that stylists were coming together and take time out of their day to help me with a formula that had never been used or made before. The support that went with all of that, along with the excitement of the results was so heart warming to me. I’ve worked in a few salons in my years of being a hairstylist, and I have to say I haven’t had that kind of rally for the team feeling in ever. It’s great to know that people here care, not only about the guests in our chair, but about each other, and our success as well. 

What do you love most about doing hair and makeup?

My favorite aspect of providing hair and makeup services is the combination of self love and self care coming together. When someone sees the results after they’ve had their hair or makeup is finished, they walk differently, hold their heads up high, and you see all that self esteem flood into them. It’s great! I get to make people feel good about themselves every day. It’s a dream. 

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

My style icons are Diana Ross and Janelle Monáe. 

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

I’m all about hydration. Whether it’s skin care, hair care, body care....hydrate hydrate hydrate. I live for skin hydration boosters that can be added to your moisturizing routine. Along with leave-in conditioners. I feel they are under utilized. Leave-in conditioners don’t have to be heavy or weigh your hair down, but there are so many benefits. They protect against heat styling, keep your hair hydrated, and can help with all over manageability of your hair strands. (Think less frizz, detangling, & extra softness). 

What is another favorite local business of yours?

Savanna Beauty Supply. I get all my personal beauty supplies from her shop. It’s fantastic! 

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

Having the opportunity to receive any type of beauty service is such a luxury. Not all of us get to experience that on a regular basis. So those that can, it’s so nice to be able to do something for yourself that can help you feel content. Even if you’re someone who gets something done once or twice a year: a pedicure, a deep conditioning treatment with a blowout, a whole new color for your hair, these are all things we do to make ourselves feel good, to show up for yourself. We all want to feel good. Especially about ourselves. When you look good, you feel good. When you do something nice for yourself, you feel good. We can all sit here and say looks aren’t important, they do, however, allow us to show our potential, to escape reality, to become who you’ve always wanted to be. It’s also fun to pamper yourself by taking time for you. Making a hair appointment or nail appointment can really make you feel refreshed and ready to take on the world. 

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Yes, we are in an industry that revolves around external looks, but better beauty culture takes that to another level by being about more than just outward beauty. Being able to give back to the community we live in. Connect people to each other. Connect people to themselves. It takes what we think of beauty, and expands the concept. Inside, outside, beside, and underneath - all sides of beauty. Along with revealing what is beautiful within ourselves, each other, and where we live. 

Beauty means different things to different people, so to share in a community of people that are open minded, ready to learn new things, and be better to ourselves and others is the epitome of a better beauty culture. 

follow ashley joy

What is your occupation? 

I am a hairstylist. I have an extensive list in terms of job experience. Throughout my career I have always maintained a job employed by in a salon without always restricting my work to inside those salons. For example, styling weddings for my personal clients on site, various photoshoots including print and television ads, editorial work, multiple runway gigs, including New York Fashion week, participation in competitions (group and individual), even an annually recurring international gig and more. I don't believe any hairstylist should claim they are no longer a student just because they have obtained a license. I still enjoy taking new classes on occasion. In the past I was an educator as well. For the last 10 years I have worked strictly with organics, primarily, OCS, O Way and O&M. In the salon if I have to pick a favorite, cutting hair takes the cake. I would never want to limit myself to strictly cutting. I love working with all textures and if I ruled the world no one would ever chemically alter their own natural and individual texture. However, to each their own. I see beauty and benefit in all that is out there. I love the challenge of the "unruly" head of hair and finding the way it wants to be so it can be as easy as possible to manage by the client at home. I need variety and so I am not lacking experience with color and the various techniques from basic all over color to multidimensional, balayage, etc. I can't think of a styling method I haven't had to pull out at one time or another. From wash and go, casual and polished blowouts and iron work to formal styling and even avante garde and fantasy work.

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

Why MBH? Easy answer, I LOVE O Way. That company has my heart hook, line and sinker. I know my sister-in-law has a few friends who visit your Atwood location and have spoken highly of their experiences. Lastly, the hard truth is that I am new to the area and for that reason I am seeking an established business that can help feed the roots I want to set here.

how long have you been a beauty operator?

20 years

What is your favorite MBH shop (or beauty industry) memory?

I have so many over the years and I can't pick one overall. The best ones compete for vastly different reasons. I'm gonna say that what stands out in this moment is witnessing the impact I have had on the small scale, individually, with my now former clientele. Few things bring out how appreciated and valued one is like having to say goodbye. This job choice hasn't always been easy but its mine and I love it, even after 20 years. I feel lucky to have picked a path, as a silly teenager no less, that I still enjoy. Though less frequently, I still have experiences and meet people who that surprise me.

What do you love most about doing hair?

The creative outlet!

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

I always love looking at Goldie Hawn (especially in the 70s), Juliette Lewis’ hair currently and I melt to the core when I see Jillian Taylor on stage.

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

O Way Nurturing Drops and AG Dry Lift

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

Madison, it reminds very much of the neighborhood in Baltimore that I most recently was working.

What is another favorite local business of yours?

Can't say....yet.

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

Generally, in my experience, when someone feels good, they interact with the world around them in a more positive way.

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Find happiness in the skin you were born into. Being honest with oneself and those you encounter. Know your limits and appreciate others’ choices in their daily “presentation”. If the world were monochromatic and visually predictable, I may ask “What’s the point?”. Variety is absolutely the spice of life. On the flip, knowing you’ll see a rose when you seek it…I appreciate one who has a look, knows it and holds on. All said, better beauty culture is appreciation for all the jazz this world has to offer and avoiding prejudice.

FOLLOW marina

What is your occupation? 

I am a hairstylist and beauty operator with a love for curly texture, blonding (balayage, highlights), short haircuts and vibrant, bright and unconventional colors! I pride myself in seeing the beauty in others and helping them see it in themselves.

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I started getting my nails done at the shop by Ashley Marie and Alyssa in Summer 2019 and fell in love with the vibe, staff and culture! 

how long have you been a beauty operator?

Seven Years! 

What is your favorite MBH shop memory?

Each and every time I would walk in the door for a nail appointment, Ashley Marie made me feel so appreciated, respected and cared for and every other person at the shop made me feel equally as welcomed. 

What do you love most about doing hair/nails/makeup?

I love how it can truly change the way we see ourselves, and hold ourselves. Watching someone’s body language change as they get more confident or seeing their eyes light up when they look at themselves in the mirror is priceless. 

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

Orville Peck, Alok Vaid-Menon and Lil NasX are my current style icons. They are all fearless in their style, expression and fluidity between masculine and feminine styles.

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

Volume Foam and Hairspray

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

Madison is such a flourishing city, I love the intersectionality of identities and stories. What I love most about the midwest is the change in seasons and the colors in fall. 

What is another favorite local business of yours?

Grace Coffee, they have the tastiest food, most delectable coffee, most informed and wonderful staff and the cutest pups as mascots! 

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

Self-care and self-love allows us to care and love others. We have to nurture ourselves the way we desire to nurture those around us. We deserve to indulge in ourselves from time-to-time.

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Better Beauty Culture, what a wonderful thing. To me it involves seeing the beauty in each and every person that sits in our chair; knowing that they have a story. We are all dealing with so many things on a daily basis and to me Better Beauty Culture is about creating an atmosphere that is aware of what is going on around us, active listening and using our intersectionalities to advocate for each other, nurture each other and life each other up. 

FOLLOW THOMAS

What is your occupation? 

Esthetician, giver of glorious facial massage, skincare empath, excellent listener :)

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I already loved Robyn, Alice and Ashley. Working here seemed like a great way to see them more often!

How long have you been a skin Beauty Operator?

I started my beauty career at the Chanel counter inside Marshall Fields in 2003. I like makeup but I fell in love with skincare so in 2005 I became a licensed esthetician.

What is your favorite mbh shop memory?

Robyn has cut my family's hair for the past 5 years. When my daughter decided that after growing out her hair forever, she wanted to get a significant cut and she would only let Robyn do it. So I took her to MBH and she went from hair that touched the top of her pants to hair that ended just below her shoulder blades. She actually cried! But they were happy tears. She looked so beautiful and so grown up. Robyn did such an amazing job....not surprising, because she always does!

What do you love most about providing skincare services?

I feel like skin services are sometimes overlooked. Everyone gets hair cuts. They are instant gratification. Skin is not always so instant but it can make a huge difference in how a person feels about themselves. I am filled with happiness every time a client leaves my room and they can't stop looking at their own glowing complexion in the mirror or touching their freshly exfoliated and hydrated cheek. Shoot.....I want to give myself a facial now!

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

I somehow want to be a 50/50 mix of Dita Von Teese and Siouxsie Sioux.

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

SPF!!! No question.

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

I think in general south central Wisconsin is the ideal location. Madison, Milwaukee, Chicago are all within my reach. Want museums? We got it. Beautiful outdoors? Got it. Want culture, the arts, music? Yes, yes, I do! And luckily, we've got that too.

What is another favorite local business of yours?

Booth 121 is my favorite local business. A great place to find unique gifts for anyone.

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

I'm a mom. I struggle in the self-care dept. When I do, it's an absolute treat and I think, "Why don't I do this more often?". Don't be like me. Put self-care higher on your priority list and feel stunning after your beauty service!

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Better Beauty Culture means you are accepted here. No judgments. We like you just how you are and are here to bring what makes you fabulous out into the light. 

follow beth

What’s your occupation? 

I am a Beauty Operator. I enjoy multiple services like short hair cuts, giving volume and life to my fellow thin/curly haired ladies, vivid colors, and waxing! 

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I was a long time nail client of Ashley and knew they were looking for new stylists to join the family after they opened the Atwood location and I took the chance and applied!

How long have you been a Beauty Operator?

Since May 2018

What is your favorite MBH shop memory?

Getting my first manicure….seriously, it was life changing!

What do you love most about doing hair?

Being able to help people feel better about themselves and building relationships with people I otherwise might have never had the chance to meet. 

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

I would have to say a musician I recently discovered, named Josie Dunn. Her energy on stage is amazing and she always just looks comfortable. I think it’s important to be comfortable at work, especially when you’re on your feet all day. 

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

Any sort of texture spray! I love any sort of “messy” look.

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

I grew up in Madison, so it will always feel like home for me. I like to travel when I can and it’s always nice to come back home to my friends and family. 

What is another favorite local business of yours?

There are too many to choose from. Each one has its own uniqueness and it’s always fun to check out new local places in the area. 

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

It’s important to me because it’s a good way to unwind and let someone else take care of you. I think we take small things, like getting a nice hair cut, for granted and don’t really realize how relaxing it can be. 

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Better Beauty Culture means being able to learn and grow from others around you. There is more than one way of doing things and learning those different ways can help make you better at what you do. I love being able to bounce ideas off of my coworkers and giving them any advice in return.

FOLLOW ABBY

What is your occupation? 

I categorize myself as a barber, but love everything to do with hair. I started off as an overall cosmetologist, doing hair, make up, and hair color. But decided to really hone my skills into barbering and short haircuts once I fully got into the hair industry. Overall, I love to learn about new hair styles and what’s trending.

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I decided to apply at Midwest Beauty House because I had heard nothing but good things about the shop. I wanted to work at a shop that was inclusive, politically aware, and trendy. Midwest Beauty House seemed like the right place to be.

how long have you been a beauty operator?

I have been a Beauty Operator since 2017. I started by going to school at Madison Cosmetology College, and then pursuing a stylist job right after school. I then started working at mainly barbershops after my first stylist job. I worked at a well known barbershop in Minnesota, as well as a very well known barbershop here in Wisconsin, called JP Hair Design.

What is your favorite MBH shop memory?

One of my favorite hair industry memories is being able to meet one of my role models, a barber named Pope. I was able to meet her at a hair convention and talk about hair tricks. Luckily we have those quite often. Hair conventions connect local barbers/stylist with well known artists around the world. This is one of the many reasons I love how personable this industry is.

What do you love most about doing hair?

The thing I love most about the hair industry is the feeling you can give a client. The feeling of beauty and self confidence. There is nothing more I love than when a client truly feels beautiful in their own skin.

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

My favorite style icon or role model would have to be Rihanna. I love her taste in clothes as well as fierce make up choices.

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

My favorite beauty product would be the Urban Decay primer. It works better than any primer I have used in the past and makes my skin look almost glowing.

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

I absolutely love the Midwest. I love being able to explore in the summer as well as trench around in the snow and snowboarding.

What is another favorite local business of yours?

One of my favorite local businesses would have to be my old place of employment, JP Hair Design. I love how involved in the community the shop is and how helpful it is.

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

I believe receiving beauty services is important because it can help you feel confident in your own skin.

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

I think better beauty culture means many things. Not only does it mean to feel beautiful in your own skin, but also comfortable with being who you are and knowing you are unique and important.

FOLLOW ROSIE

What is your occupation? 

Beauty Operator. My absolute favorite services to perform are blonding and fashion colors, but I love all aspects of hair styling and the creativity involved in assisting individuals to find their best look!

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I love being able to try fun new things and feel MBH will allow my creativity to shine. I can’t wait to grow as a stylist and enjoy working with individuals and being a part of the MBH team.

how long have you been a beauty operator?

I’ve been a beauty operator for almost two years. I received my certification in eyelash extensions in 2020 and in 2021 I graduated from the Aveda Institute here in Madison.

What is your favorite salon memory?

During my technical interview I was told I could play my music over the speaker so I had it playing super quite to not annoy anyone. About two minutes later Alice came in and immediately blasted the music up. It made me feel at home and less nervous.

What do you love most about doing hair/nails?

I love the creativity that comes with being behind the chair. Every day brings something new and that’s what makes it fun and adventurous.

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

I don’t feel I have a style icon. My fashion is constantly changing based on my mood and the current season we’re in. This allows me to constantly evolve with my style choices and be true to my individuality.

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

My favorite beauty product is Morphe brown setting gel, I seriously never go anywhere without it on. It puts my brows in place and they stay that way.

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

I love the diversity of people and culture in the Madison area and the many things to do. I was born in the Midwest and love cows. One of my favorite things to do is driving the country roads and seeing all the cows in the fields.

What is another favorite local business of yours?

I love the Green Owl Café – their sandwiches are the best!

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

Beauty is all about self-care and what better way to care for yourself than a beauty service! I come out feeling refreshed and ready to take on my day after receiving a beauty service. I hope I can do the same for you!

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

I feel we are all beautiful and deserve opportunities to choose our own path toward our own personal beauty goals. I am here as a stylist to assist every individual to reach their beauty goals.

FOLLOW IVY

What is your occupation? 

My occupation is Front Desk Service Coordinator.

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I pursued a position at MBH after Alice came to me with the job opportunity. I've always loved Alice and the positive environment in the salon and the idea behind better beauty culture. Even though I’m not a stylist I still believe in products that are healthy and sustainable. I loved that those things were the main focus here at MBH! 

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

My favorite style icons and inspirations are people who I see out and about and in my life who know what they like and are confident in wearing it. I always aspire to be that confident in my own clothing and makeup choices and love to see other creative people doing what they love! 

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

My favorite beauty product would have to be any sea salt spray. I love the ocean and how it makes my hair feel/look so I’m happy there are products that can help me get that same beachy feel in the Midwest. 

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

What I love most about Madison is all the seasons and fun events that come with them. Madison summers are the best for all the eastside festivals and I love that you can drive an hour in any direction and find amazing hikes and swimming spots.

What is another favorite local business of yours?

Some of my favorite local businesses include (but aren’t limited to) The Glitter Workshop, Change, Soap Opera, Ian’s Pizza and Nutzy Mutz & Crazy Catz. I’m a big local shopper and love supporting small businesses so there are many more favorites. 

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

I think receiving beauty services is important because it can boost your confidence and give people a chance to relax and get pampered. Sometimes just a small little change like getting your nails done or a fun haircut can really make a difference in how you feel about yourself! Everyone deserves to take a moment to relax and get to feel good about themselves.

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Better Beauty Culture to me means making sure everyone feels welcome and beautiful in their own skin and creating an environment that embodies that so people can thrive and be comfortable being able to express themselves.

Hi, I'm Nico!

I value embodied presence, curiosity, and the story our bodies communicate if we attune to them. I’ve been a licensed bodyworker and massage therapist since 2010 and have become increasingly curious about ways to be with others that allow for growth and nourishment. My own curiosity journey has led me to the therapeutic modality of Somatic Experiencing. I've chosen to be here in this space because connection is healing and many of us aren’t taught the skills to understand our own impulses and recognize our relationship patterns.

what is somatic experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-oriented therapeutic modality for healing trauma. The SE approach allows the practitioner and recipient to cultivate a toolset to identify and resolve "stuck" states, such as fight, flight, or freeze.

Using principles of Somatic Experiencing we’ll connect, ground, and get curious about your body’s narrative.

Through this process, your nervous system will deepen its resilience and capacity for regulation. In these expansive states, your connection to self and others can deepen and grow. Together we’ll explore tools for freeing up stress and identify resources for creating lasting changes. Learn more about Somatic Experiencing.

MY VALUES

Connection 

I believe connection to self and others leads to healing and living a more fulfilling life.

Curiosity

In this work we are curious about body sensations, emotions, memories and behaviors and how they are connected to our present state. 

Compassion

I create a non judgmental and welcoming atmosphere for the body’s process to unfold. 

Empowerment

We work together to discover and develop your inner resources and tools to direct your life.

Transformation

Through this practice you transform how you experience yourself and how you relate to the world around you.

What is your occupation? 

Nail Operator-Nail art extraordinaire, hand-painted florals & mixing textures is my thing--customizable art for your lifestyle. 

How did you or why did you pursue a position at MBH?

I was at a salon that didn’t inspire me at all. I’ve grown so much as an artists at MBH. Alice inspires and motivates me. 

How long have you been a nail beauty Operator?

6+ fabulous years!

What is your favorite MBH shop memory?

We literally make new memories every day, but our 2017 shop holiday party was pretty memorable. 

What do you love most about doing nails?

The people I meet and stories I hear. Servicing people from all walks of life. It feels like all my clients leave as friends. 

What is your current style icon/inspiration or favorite role model?

My daughter, Mavis, inspires me to wear bold colors and patterns. My mother set a great example for me as a parent and is so loving, generous, and encouraging. 

What is your favorite or most used beauty product?

CND Solar Oil because it smells amazing and makes your manicure last and makes your hands happy!

What do you love most about Madison/the Midwest?

I love the community. Living in a neighborhood where my neighbour gives me fresh pasta sauce with ingredients from our community garden. 

What is another favorite local business of yours?

MOKA. You’ll rarely catch me without an iced latte in hand. 

Why is receiving beauty services important to you?

Being good to yourself helps you be a better person to others. 

What does “better beauty culture” mean to you?

Being in a safe inclusive space. Being around people that, without even trying, make you want to be a better person.

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