Meet Amber Boanton | Master Hairstylist | Owner of Amber’s Hair Retreat, LLC

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

Hi Amber, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Once I knew that I wanted to become a business owner, I started doing my research on what was needed to get my business up and running, I talked to other hairstylists who went out on their own and asked them what steps they took to opening a salon. I met with a lawyer and a CPA to learn more about the business aspects, obtaining an LLC, filling all the necessary tax documents, etc. I started saving money right away so that I was financially ready to start the process of opening my salon. I also watched plenty of YouTube videos on becoming a business owner, specifically in the hair industry.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a hairstylist who specializes in healthy hair. My creativity really shows when I do color and natural hair styles. There’s so many possibilities when it comes to hair, and I love that about my art. I believe what sets me apart from other stylists is my passion for doing hair. I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown into this new role as a salon owner and hairstylist. I really surprised myself and I can’t wait to see what the future has instore for me. I started my career as a hairstylist for a corporate salon. While there I was able to attend trainings to help improve my skills. I also attended hair shows on my own so that I can expand my skillset even more and be versatile in doing hair. One of the main lessons that I’ve learned is to just be yourself, especially in the hair industry. Every stylist is creative in their own way or has that niche about them, you just have to find out what it is that makes you stand out. I want the world to know that I’m really passionate about what I do and that I put my all into becoming the hairstylist that I am today.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Definitely taking them to Whataburger as soon as they come into town lol. I would take them to the Galleria for some shopping of course, for dinner we would go to Kiss Houston conveniently located in the Heights area. Drink wise we’re definitely going bar hopping on Washington Ave. My new favorite place to hang out, eat, and have a beautiful view of the city is Post HTX. Since i am a lover of all thing’s art, visiting The Museum of Fine Arts Houston is at the top of my list for places to check out.

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?
I want to give a huge shoutout to my mom and sisters! If it weren’t for them encouraging me to step out on faith, Amber’s Hair Retreat would not exist. My younger sister is the one who came up with the name, so I am forever thankful to her for helping me bring my vision to life!

Instagram: @hairbyambercb