Hidden Gems: Meet Kati Arent of Kati Arent Hair

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kati Arent.

Hi Kati, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started working in a hair salon in my small hometown in Washington when I was just 14 years old- answering phones, shampooing clients, and sweeping floors. At the time, I didn’t realize how much it would shape my future, but I quickly fell in love with the environment, the creativity, and the relationships that came with the work.

After high school, I spent two years in college before realizing I wanted to pivot and fully pursue cosmetology. Once I made that decision, everything clicked. Hair came very naturally to me, and I genuinely loved the craft.

After completing cosmetology school and assisting for two years, my focus began to shift beyond the technical side and into the business itself. Even while working as a commission stylist, I understood that my career was still my own business to run. I became deeply invested in learning how to operate sustainably and successfully, from client experience and retention to branding and long-term growth.

Today, I run a successful six-figure beauty business based in San Clemente, with continued growth on the horizon. What began as an early introduction to the industry has evolved into a brand built with intention, and I ultimately dream of opening my own salon one day.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. One of the biggest challenges for me has been building confidence and learning to trust my own voice. Even with years of experience, I’ve had moments of imposter syndrome – questioning whether I was “ready” for the next level or truly deserving of the success I was building.

Another challenge was navigating the experience of working for someone else while holding a very clear vision for my own business. Learning how to honor my standards, values, and long-term goals, even when they weren’t always fully understood or shared, required a lot of personal growth and self-advocacy.

Setting boundaries with clients was also a learning curve. Early on, it can feel uncomfortable to enforce policies, value your time, or say no, but those boundaries ultimately create better experiences for both the client and the business.

Each of these challenges pushed me to grow not just as a stylist, but as a business owner and leader. Over time, confidence came from consistency, showing up, refining my craft, and choosing decisions that aligned with sustainability and my own self-respect.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’m an independent hairstylist running a client-focused hair business built on both artistry and connection. I specialize in lived-in color, blonding, and extensions, with an emphasis on low-maintenance results that grow out beautifully and fit seamlessly into my clients’ everyday lives.

What truly sets my business apart is the experience I create around the service. From welcome gifts for first-time clients to referral incentives for loyal guests who share my work with friends, I’m intentional about making every client feel valued and appreciated. I believe luxury is found in the details – thoughtful consultations, education, and consistency – not just the final result.

I’m meticulous in my work and deeply invested in ongoing education, but I’m equally proud of the relationships I’ve built. Many of my clients have been with me for years, and that trust is something I never take lightly.

Ultimately, I want readers to know that my business is about more than just hair. It’s about creating an experience where people feel seen, confident, and cared for and building something sustainable that grows through genuine connection and community.

How do you think about luck?
I do believe luck has played a role, but I see it more as timing and circumstance rather than chance. External moments, especially COVID-19, had a major impact on the beauty industry and unexpectedly created opportunities for growth and reset. That period shifted how clients valued their time and experiences, and it allowed me to build my business with more clarity, structure, and intention than before.

At the same time, I don’t think luck works on its own. Those moments only became opportunities because I was willing to advocate for myself, set standards, and make decisions that aligned with my long-term vision.

I’ve also learned that what feels like bad luck often leads to growth. Challenges forced me to adapt, strengthen my confidence, and evolve as a business owner. Looking back, those experiences shaped my business in ways I couldn’t have planned, but I’m grateful for them now.

For me, luck shows up when timing meets effort. Being open, prepared, and willing to build something meaningful when the moment presents itself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.katiarenthair.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiarenthair
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kati.katelanesalon
• Yelp: https://yelp.to/BYoVDVBwE7
• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits
Vanessa Lentine