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

Hi Gabe, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
The pandemic forced me to discover what I value most. I have made family time a priority as well as my business growth. I have days dedicated to family and personal time and time dedicated to growing my business. We have a finite amount of time. What is business success worth if it costs me my relationships. I do believe I can have a successful career and meaningful relationships.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It was the end of my 20’s, I was burnt out and needed major change. My husband and I moved to Houston, Texas with family where I decided to pursue my dreams. Within days of starting the cosmetology program at Paul Mitchell the school Houston, I turned 30. My 30’s were a whirlwind. After completing a successful program at Paul Mitchell, I did a 9 month apprenticeship at an upscale salon in the Memorial/Spring Branch area of Houston. I have had the honor of working with, assisting, and taking classes with industry icons; I am beyond grateful for the relationships I have been able to build during my never ending quest for knowledge. This knowledge and education helps me be my best for every client that sits in my chair. I am Sassoon trained in cutting, a certified Goldwell Master Colorist, as well as numerous other advanced education classes in styling, cutting and color. I have had the honor in doing hair at both Houston and New York Fashion Weeks. Enough boring resume talk…

In 2020 the pandemic rocked our world and changed everything. My husband and I decided to embark on a different journey and Create HSG salon. This personalized boutique experience specializes in customized, concierge level customer service. Especially since the pandemic, customers are needing individualized attention with a custom approach.

I specialize in all things hair. It is such a beautiful form of art. This wearable art is the handbag you take with you every day.

I am most proud when I help someone see and tap into their own beauty. It is such a special and personal thing to have someone sit in your chair and leave feeling more confident. I love making people feel special. When someone feels special, valued and confident they can conquer anything.

With any journey worthwhile there are obstacles.

*Learning to evolve and adjust as the world changes. The world is completely different than it was 3 years ago. What served me well then no longer serves me.
*The last couple years have showed me what I value and I had to realign myself line up with what is most important to me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So many amazing things to do here! Where do I start? – The Houston Farmers Market

– Post Houston
– Puebla’s Mexican Kitchen (one of my current favorites)
– Latin Bites
– Hughies on 18th
– Postino
– Museum of Natural Science
– The trails in Bridgeland (gotta show off my beautiful neighborhood)
– Galveston and then amazing Greek food at KritiKos Gril
– l3 Craft Coffee
– Craft Beer Cellar Cypress

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband gave me the push I needed during the hardest part of my life. Freshly sober I didn’t know if i wanted to live, let alone start over. Cosmetology school was full of panic attacks, depression and fear; mostly because of so much change in my life. Cory would pack my kit, take me to school and practically push me out the door. At some point during that time a new passion took over. I discovered I did want to live, I discovered a passion for hair and a renewed passion for life.

Website: www.hairstylistgabe.com

Instagram: @hairstylistgabe.com @hsgsalon

Other: hairstylistgabe.glossgenius.com

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