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The lesson for me is that family is everything. Q: You just got engaged and have a growing family with a toddler and another little one on the way—how d o you b a l anc e mot he rho o d and entrepreneurship? A: Its the hardest thing I've ever done. Because my team is so strong and I feel so confident in them and their ability to keep the culture of the salon how it's intended to be when I'm not in the building it makes it so much easier. Joey is also my rock. As a retired veteran- I have the luxury of having his full-time help with growing the business and prioritizing the needs of our family. We pass Stone back and forth like a hot potato depending on what needs to get done for the day. Some days are lowkey and peaceful, other days are filled with absolute small business life chaos. Having the support from all ends is the most important thing. I could not do this alone. Q: What's been one of the biggest lessons you've learned as a female entrepreneur in the beauty industry? A: e saying "its lonely at the top" is true. I never thought it was. People see you doing well and like you mentioned before, the comments and the negativity begin to strike. People show their true colors and unfortunately, friendships are lost at times because your values no longer align. e lesson for me is that family is everything. Q: What do you think sets White Opal apart from other salons, and how do you keep pushing boundaries? A: My expectation for how the client should feel from the second they walk in the door until the second they leave and how their hair should look is very high. My staff knows this. I will never lower our standards. We have continued education but most importantly, myself and the stylists are all constantly pushing themselves to be better and everyone around follows suit. at's what makes an unstoppable team. No one is complacent. VUE ON | INFLUENTIAL WOMEN 86 VUENJ.COM

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