We had the good fortune of connecting with Autumn Markley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Autumn, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?

Hi! Thank so much for chatting with me. Opening a business definitely did force some lessons.
Throughout the process of opening my business I was faced with a lot of important decisions. I am someone who likes to take time to consider my options, and more than that, I’m just indecisive.

I have been forced to trust myself and find resolve in my choices. It has been an incredibly empowering experience for me. I didn’t anticipate this sort of growth, but I’m very happy for it!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

The short story is that I operate a salon studio with a holistic approach, meaning I take into consideration everything from your aesthetic and routine to the kinds of products and practices that are ideal for your hair, body, and the planet.
The long story is that I’m having a big, full circle moment in my career right now. Back in 2009, less than a year into doing hair I chose to rent a station at a cute salon residing in a historic 1920’s house in my own neighborhood of downtown Tempe.

At the time, it was uncommon to go independent so soon in your career, but I was very motivated. Before long I was renting full time. After 2 years, some skin sensitivity issues and lots of responsibility to my 3 young kids I decided to take an offer to work as an employee at Phoenix’s first organic salon. I spent several years there, surrounded by other stylists on the same quest for knowledge in an emerging channel of our industry. From there I helped open a successful clean air, low-tox, zero waste, cruelty free salon in the Grand Ave Arts district.

I am now back in the same building (the salon is under different ownership) renting an entire studio for myself, in which I am able to continue to use the same organic haircare products, divert salon waste from landfills through multiple partnerships, and offer my clients a bespoke, self care experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For me, everything starts in my neighborhood. Most of my favorite people and places are nearby.

It would start with a quick walk to Casey Moore’s, a favorite neighborhood spot, where I would have a dry, botanist martini with an olive, and make sure they try the chowder or french onion soup (the one featured in the New Times), a cheeseburger (beyond burger if that’s your jam), and fish and chips.

Across the street is ASU and my favorite place to decompress, the secret garden. We’re also less than 2 miles from Desert Botanical Garden, where I go with my family often for fresh air and beauty.

I love visiting downtown Phoenix too. Durant’s is a great spot to spend an evening with someone you want to catch up with because they don’t allow cell phones in the dining room, so you get to give each other your undivided attention. From there we’d go to Gracie’s where the jukebox is stellar or I might have a friend DJing on the patio.

There are dozens of amazing hole in the wall sort of places I’d insist on visiting, foods from many cultures, a benefit of living near a school which draws a big international population. Aside from that, I am always down to haunt some coffee or tea shops and just chat about the whole world for days.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
As a single mom, it has been extremely important to me to develop a strong support system. It is these people, my close friends, my partner, and family who cheered for me to find success. They show up for me in the most considerate ways . . . . it’s overwhelming to think about.

Of course, I also have wonderful clients who bring so much fun and love into my life. I would be remiss not to acknowledge how fortunate I am.

Website: https://lebeautyoperator.square.site/

Instagram: lebeautyoperator

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