Conversations with Audrey Kaatz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Audrey Kaatz.

Hi Audrey, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I started doing hair in 2009 in Denver, Colorado. I have been off and on working for myself for over 8 years. I have had my own studio in Old Town Scottsdale since 2020.

I specialize in lived-in color, tape extensions, and hand-tied extensions. When you come into my studio I do my best to make it feel relaxing and welcoming. I want everyone to feel comfortable with me whether we just met or I’ve been doing their hair for years.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have had a lot of ups and downs throughout my career. That is how it goes when you want to build and work for yourself. It’s not always easy just because you make your own schedule and fill your books with great clients.

After the pandemic, business especially got tricky…. when could we work, how, how many clients were we allowed to see in. day, how do we raise our prices to keep up with the economy but also keep it affordable??? So many obstacles.

But, loyal clients and persistence with being an entrepreneur kept my business going.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a cosmetologist and I specialize in living in color and extensions. My favorite methods are tape and hand-tied hair. I love that I can be creative daily and that I can make each client feel beautiful and confident leaving my chair. I think I am most proud of the progress I have made over the years in making people feel comfortable enough to be themselves with me.

Of course, I love doing hair and that’s why I do what I do. But, people come in as themselves whether they are having a great day, a terrible day, feeling grungy and in slippers, or ready for date night… I love that my space gives everyone the opportunity to feel safe. Then they can go get ready to go out after I do the hard part… the hair.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up I was always the quirky weird girl in choir and art class. I had friends in a lot of circles but always found myself on the outside. I think I did that to myself for whatever reason. But, I also was the girl who did everyone’s hair in the hallway or before the dance, whether it was homecoming, prom, or spring formal.

I knew when I grew up with my dad that I was going to be on my own in that department. He tried his best to help with my hair before school, but, after 3rd grade or so I asked for straighteners and curling irons and before I knew it, I had almost a whole salon set up in my bathroom.

Pricing:

• Haircuts start at $75
• Any color service starts at $100+
• Extensions start at $500-$2500

Contact Info:

• Website: audreyincolor.com
• Instagram: @Audrey_in_color