Check Out Shelby Johnston’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelby Johnston.

Hi Shelby, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
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I’ve always been drawn to the beauty industry, but I didn’t fully realize my passion for hairstyling until I saw how powerful it is to help someone feel confident and seen. I started out doing friends’ and family’s hair
and over time, that passion turned into a career path I couldn’t ignore. I went to cosmetology school and graduated in 2004 and dove in headfirst—learning not just the technical skills, but how to connect with clients on a real, personal level.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I think that’s part of what’ makes me the stylist—and person—I am today. There have been seasons when business was slow, and I had to get really creative just to stay afloat. I had no clientele after covid, no connections, and it forced me to hustle in ways I hadn’t before—handing out flyers, promoting myself online, even going door to door at local businesses to introduce myself.

On a more personal level, juggling the demands of being a single mom while trying to grow a business hasn’t been easy. There have been moments of doubt, overwhelm, and exhaustion. But every struggle has also been a lesson. I’ve learned how strong I really am, and how much I believe in what I do. Helping people feel beautiful and confident is what I love to do.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in blonding and extensions—creating dimensional, lived-in blondes and seamless, natural-looking transformations is truly my passion. I love the art and precision that goes into customizing the perfect tone and placement for each client. With extensions, it’s about so much more than length or volume—it’s about giving someone the hair they’ve always dreamed of, and seeing how that confidence carries into every part of their life.

I think what sets me apart is the experience I offer from start to finish. I’m all about healthy hair, honest conversations, and making sure each client feels heard and truly taken care of. blonding and extensions are major investments, and I want every client to walk out feeling like a million bucks.

What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come—building a business from scratch, growing a loyal clientele, and doing work I genuinely love every single day. It’s more than hair—it’s transformation, empowerment, and connection.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to trust the process—even when it’s uncomfortable. In this industry, there are ups and downs, slow seasons, and times when self-doubt creeps in. But I’ve learned that every challenge is either preparing me or pushing me toward the next level. I’ve also realized that success doesn’t come from doing what everyone else is doing—it comes from staying true to your own style, energy, and values.

And honestly, I’ve learned to give myself grace. I’m a stylist, a businesswoman, and a mom—and I can’t do it all perfectly all the time. But showing up with passion, integrity, and heart—that’s what really matters.

Pricing:

• Haircut $90
• Blonding session starts at $225
• Extensions stating at $160
• Smoothing treatment starting at $250

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Hairbyshelbyjohnston
• Other: https://Shelbyjohnston1.glossgenious.com