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Meet Tristan Newton

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Tristan Newton.

Tristan, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I remember the moment I thought to myself that doing hair seemed like a good idea. My mom had dropped me off for a haircut at Great Clips at age 12, and as I waited my turn, I watched all the stylists at work. When it was my turn to get a cut, I wasn’t happy with the results, as usual. So, I started cutting my own hair… which wasn’t very hard considering it was a punk rock pixie cut haha. Fast forward to age 16 and I got a job as a receptionist at a salon. I would pick the stylist’s brains on what they were doing and intently watch them all day. I got brave and started doing most of my friends’ hair in high school. (Thank you, friends, for letting me practice on you when I really didn’t know what I was doing!) This carried on through college and beyond as I worked jobs in various industries before finally taking the plunge and going to Paul Mitchell The School Phoenix.

After school, I was very fortunate to get a job at a new salon in downtown Phoenix, and now, I can’t imagine working in any other area! The revitalization of Downtown has truly been amazing.

About a year ago, I went fully independent and I couldn’t have made a better decision. I have an amazing clientele and support system. Aside from being behind the chair, I am a certified advanced trainer for Davines North America. Meaning, I teach color classes and product knowledge around the Southwest region to other salons and stylists. I also freelance as an on-site Bridal Stylist.

In the salon, my clientele mainly consists of working professionals from around the Valley.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There are always bumps on any road! I have had my three wonderful children since starting my career and as any working mom will tell you, the juggle and the struggle are real! But it’s been fun to see my kids grow alongside my career! My twin daughters get to see me own business and push myself to meet my goals. What a gift to share with them that anything is possible if you work for it.

What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
About a year ago, I moved my business into a suite downtown. It’s right in the heart of the hustle and bustle and I love that! My clientele tends to be business professionals, attorneys, politicians, bankers, etc.

I would say that I specialize in color (being a color educator has helped elevate my game!), precision women’s cuts, and men’s cuts. I do extensions by request. And as I mentioned previously, I have also become known for Bridal styling.

What sets me apart? I have a very strong commitment to running as sustainable and ethical of a salon as possible. I chose my color and products based on the fact that they are sustainably produced. I recycle as much waste as possible and find small ways to swap out wasteful practices within the salon (for example: serving water from a pitcher instead of plastic bottles). I would also say that I have been a very consistent and enthusiastic supporter of the Downtown culture and art scene. I love cross-promoting and supporting locally owned businesses in the area!

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Wow… is there enough space to name them all?

I’ve had MANY amazing mentors in my industry! From top artists to coworkers, there and many who’ve made an impact on me and Inspired growth!

My clients have been so fabulous and good to me throughout this journey. They’ve actually become more like family. We’ve been with each other through many of life’s ups and downs, and to be there through their engagements, marriages and the birth of children has got to be one of the most precious gifts this job has given me.
My family has been super supportive. And honestly, my kids as well! They’ve unboxed products for me, swept up hair, helped me hang shelves, and been nothing but patient with my long hours at work and busy schedule. They were a major incentive for going out on my own, I wanted the freedom to be available for their important moments, and get in our family vacations where memories are made.

Contact Info:

Image Credit:
Photos by Inloveness Photography

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