Meet Amanda Ross-Pye | Nail Stylist & recycled fashion curator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Ross-Pye and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I have been self employed for 11 years and my balance has been an ongoing process. Work consumed most of my life for a long time. It’s really hard to set healthy boundaries because the world says you should hustle hard and you should be team no sleep, I found out I was really drained with that type of lifestyle. That is how the first 4 years of my career went. 6 days a week 12 hr days, I had time for nothing. No family, vacations, self care ….. nothing. Not even time to really enjoy my son’s milestones, but luckily I was able to bring him to work with me. This still wasn’t satisfying for me. Once I got married and contemplated another child I decided I didn’t want to work like that anymore. My goal was to be intentional with my time and focus on what I cared about which is family. Working smart and not hard is always my goal. Making sure I don’t get burned out or miss important days for my babies and Husband is the ultimate balance for me. The more time spent living life work becomes more enjoyable. Your household becomes more harmonious when creating memories. Being present everyday is the only way I stay in tuned with my mind body and spirit. For me that is the ultimate balance.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Color is a Dream. That’s my brand. I went with that name because I really fill like color is limitless and anything you dream of can be a canvas. That idea is the best description for my brand since my canvases range from nails to clothing and styling.

Fashion has always been my first love. I have been thrifting since I was 12. My aunt gave me $20 and told me to find something I love. Of course I did and was fascinated of the idea that the items I purchased had a story before me. Buying thrifted items is truly an art . Your purchase is eco friendly and can bring so much joy when you wear it. There will always be a story behind it to tell. This is something I played around with for years, mostly geared towards client customizing things in their wardrobe. Then that evolved into styling people for events to just finding pieces and having them available at Stash House in Phoenix where I create mini canvases on nails.

Now doing nails I never saw it coming….. I really just needed an income after cosmetology school and a nail salon was hiring. Once I started I never stopped. Nails stole my heart because it’s a new canvas every time. My passion and genuine love for the health and esthetics of my clients nails is something that I believe sets me aside from others. Each appointment is another chance to really show out from prep, cuticle maintenance, shaping and painting. It was not easy perfecting this craft and I am forever learning. Repetition and practice is my best friend.
Getting started with nails took a while to grow consistent clientele and deliver stylish nails. Being consistent and knowing your worth are key components to making sure your business is profitable. Not being afraid of change and setting firm boundaries as an artist was something that helped me make huge leaps in how successful I was. It wasn’t easy, prayer and believing I am worth it is how I pushed through.

For both nails and fashion a lesson I have learned is stay true to you. Not everyone will love everything you put together because it’s art, it’s not meant for everyone. So focus on what do You want to represent. Also take risk. I have had too many instances where I felt I should of just went or done it!! Every time you take a risk you evolve & Evolution is key.

I am really proud of myself for taking a risk and starting completely over here in Arizona. It has made me more confident in who I am as an artist. Color is a Dream will eventually evolve into a brand that will give back to my community by reaching as many people as possible and help them show their most authentic self through fashionable styling, continue to deliver art on healthy nails and keep the thrifted rack at the salon stocked. Hopefully growing into something Arizona will love!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Definitely a must out here is a hike! An early morning hike while catching a sunrise is absolutely breathtaking. One time we caught a bunch of hot air balloons taking off while the sun was rising. Something I could never get tired of doing.Take a stroll through Phoenix zoo during the day and botanical gardens at night.

Shopping at Scottsdale fashion square mall a brunch date after at brunch & sip.

Spa day at the Hyatt regency in Scottsdale dinner at steak 44.

Hang out day downtown Gilbert. One of my fav places there is culinary drop out. Catch some live music and play some games.

If it’s a first Friday I love doing the art events around the town.

Bar hopping is always fun in Tempe and Scottsdale.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have always been surrounded by teachers, friends and most importantly family who encouraged me to be the most creatively authentic version possible. My family you guys have helped me more then you know!! From prayers to babysitting, supporting my business, help with promoting my work and just loving on me in an unconditional way. Teachers for pushing me to explore the artist within, thank you for seeing me and my friends for always being down!! For that I am forever grateful because there were plenty of times when I couldn’t see why they thought I was capable. My husband has always said go for it, stepped up in so many ways and continues to be a wonderful partner that I am blessed to have. Knowing that you have support makes a major difference in how your goals and dreams are achieved. Shout out to my tribe I love y’all!

Instagram: @colorisadream

Facebook: Colorisadream

Image Credits
Anthony Smith Jr Brissa Del Mar