Meet Kelsey Anderson | Salon Owner & Hair Stylist

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

Hi Kelsey, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve been a hairstylist for over 15 years, and honestly, in the beginning, I never had plans to open my own salon. But as time went on, I learned how to build and manage my personal brand and essentially became the CEO of my own small business. During the pandemic, I noticed a huge gap in business education for beauty professionals — especially for those wanting to open their own suite or become independent. That realization inspired me to create a space where education and mentorship are at the core. At Loty Beauty Retreat, we focus on helping stylists grow in whichever direction they choose within our industry. After years of investing in my own business education, I’m now passionate about mentoring other beauty professionals who are ready to take control of their careers and build businesses they’re proud of.

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’ve been a hairstylist since 2010, and over the years, I’ve grown so much both personally and professionally. One thing I’m most proud of is my love for learning. Whether it’s continuing education for hair, business strategy, or understanding consumer behavior, I’m always eager to soak up new knowledge and apply it to my career.

I started suite rental in 2014, officially launched my own LLC in 2015, and have been navigating the ups and downs of running my own business ever since. It wasn’t always easy. For a long time, I struggled to find a salon home that accepted me for who I was — a space that didn’t want to change everything about me. That’s what pushed me to carve out my own path.

I’ve worked in several suites between my time in Dallas and moving back to Houston, and with each move, I carried valuable lessons that helped me quickly rebuild and grow my clientele. After years of bouncing between spaces, I finally planted roots in my second home, LoTy Beauty Retreat in Sugar Land.

As a mom of two young boys, finding balance between work and family has been one of my biggest challenges and greatest motivations. My journey has taught me that success isn’t about perfection — it’s about resilience, community, and staying true to yourself. Through LoTy Beauty Retreat, I hope to create a space where other beauty professionals can do the same: grow, thrive, and build a career on their own terms.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One of my favorite places to eat is Elliot’s Table. Elliot can cook food to absolute perfection and I am NEVER disappointed in any part of my visit. Between the cozy, intimate atmosphere, the amazing food, and the phenomenal service, you will always have an amazing dining experience.
My favorite place to get massaged is Cloud 9 Foot Spa in Sugar Land, TX. I absolutely love this place because 1. the prices are unbeatable 2. every provider there has amazing pressure and I always come out feeling rejuvenated and 3. They are consistently good, every time.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My ShoutOut would have to go to the amazing Britt Seva and her Thriving Stylist Method. I found her in 2020, right when I was really craving more direction and business education, and her program completely shifted how I viewed my career. The Thriving Stylist Method is a business and marketing program designed specifically for beauty professionals, helping stylists learn how to grow their business behind the chair and create a life they love.

I’ve been working my way through her courses ever since and am now a part of her Thriving Leadership education, which focuses on developing leadership skills and building a strong, supportive salon culture. I also have to give a huge ShoutOut to the Thriving Stylist community — an incredible group of stylists and salon owners who rally around each other, cheer each other on, and share so openly. Being part of that community has been such a source of inspiration and encouragement for me on this journey.

Website: https://www.lotybeautyretreat.com

Instagram: @lotybeautyretreat

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lotybeautyretreat

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/loty-beauty-retreat-sugar-land