Brittny Ryan launched her salon in Maumee just days after Christmas last year. After personally witnessing her skill when she styled my wife’s hair for our wedding reception, I knew I had to sit down for an interview. Her responses reflect the confidence and growth of a professional mastering her craft.
IH: Mrs. Ryan, how did you get started in the beauty industry? Did you begin with a mentorship or immediately strike out on your own?
BR: After graduating from cosmetology school and passing the Board exams, I quickly landed a job as an assistant in a small salon with just three hair stations, a tiny spa room, and a nail corner. I handled everything from tearing foils and sweeping floors to shampooing clients and managing phone calls. It was basic work, but it was invaluable.
My mentor’s techniques were captivating. She’d double-book clients, processing one’s color while cutting another’s hair. She taught me razor cutting, texturizing, blending layers, and innovative blonding techniques I had never seen before. I learned how to fade men’s cuts, cover greys, and even formulate color for clients with grey hair. I soaked it all in, taking mental notes every day.
While I was doing the grunt work, the most important lessons came from watching and listening. The job isn’t just about making someone look good—it’s about building a relationship. You’re there for your client, whether they need to vent or laugh. These are the lessons you only learn on the job.
Eventually, I began taking models, mostly friends and family. My now-husband was one of my early clients. I was trying to build a clientele, always feeling the pull of entrepreneurship.
That journey led me to Peggy George, the owner of Definitions of Design. I met her while working a side job at Applebee’s, and after mentioning my training, she lit up. It wasn’t long before I started working at Definitions, where I stayed for a decade.
IH: What’s involved in getting the certifications you need to become a licensed stylist?
BR: Cosmetology certification requires 1,500 documented hours of school time, which includes working with clients and classroom education. I attended Regency Beauty Institute in Holland, Ohio, full-time from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Once you complete your hours, you take the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology exam in Grove City, which is a full-day process. It includes a written and practical portion, where you have to showcase specific skills like haircuts, manicures, and chemical techniques, all while demonstrating sanitation knowledge.
After passing, I began working at Definitions, but I needed to get my Independent Managing License to rent a booth. In 2014, I took another test to earn that license.
IH: At my reception, you mentioned expanding into other areas of the industry. Can you elaborate on that?
BR: It took me 12 years in the industry, but I finally completed a course on extensions. That certification gave me the confidence to offer another service to my clients.
IH: Was it necessary to expand your skills?
BR: Absolutely. Every skill you add is a necessity in this field.
IH: So, it was important to have your own space to showcase everything you’ve learned.
BR: Definitely.
IH: Your salon just opened after Christmas last year—congratulations!
BR: Thank you!
IH: As a small business owner, what challenges have you faced so far? And do you see other salons as competition?
BR: Managing time and balancing work with life has been a big challenge, not to mention the complexities of taxes, healthcare, disability, and retirement plans that my husband and I are trying to set up. I want to enjoy life while being the best at my job. I don’t have a boss giving orders, so I say no to social gatherings to prioritize my work and mental health.
On the flip side, I have full control over my bookings, supplies, retail, and inventory. If something slips, it’s on me. But the hardest part? Always taxes. Self-employment means you’re responsible for all your income and expenses. My advice is to hire a good accountant—it’s worth it. The more you make, the more complicated it gets.
As for competition, I don’t worry about it. It’s been nearly five years since COVID hit, and we’re all lucky to still be here. I don’t poach clients; we’re all just trying to make a living.
IH: Who has influenced you the most in your work?
BR: My dad, Robert, is my first influence. He left the military and started his own irrigation business, H&H Irrigation. He’s been my business mentor, offering advice that’s helped me along the way.
Another influence is Julie Bobash. I worked next to her at Definitions and learned about the importance of empathy. If you genuinely care about your clients, you’ll succeed.
And then there’s Sarah Page from Ann Arbor, who specializes in weft extensions. Her work is incredible, and she’s constantly evolving her techniques. I’m also inspired by makeup artists like Nicole Chapman, who, along with her sister, built the “Real Techniques” brand. Their work ethic and creativity are major inspirations.
IH: Since opening your studio, has it felt like a fresh start for you?
BR: Absolutely. Having my own space feels like having my own little kingdom.
IH: What drives you to keep going?
BR: Creative freedom, without a doubt. Building my confidence has been huge. In the beginning, I was terrified when clients told me to “do whatever you want.” I’d shake while applying color because I didn’t trust myself. But now? It’s liberating. I wouldn’t trade that feeling for anything.
IH: That energy must translate into your daily routine.
BR: It does. I open the studio, set up the lights, spot clean from the day before, and greet my first client. I don’t double-book like chain salons do; I want each client to feel relaxed and not rushed. Women’s cuts take about an hour, men’s about 30 minutes, and color treatments around two hours. It’s all about keeping things on track while giving my clients the attention they deserve.
IH: Do you have any favorite styles or trends?
BR: I’m really into cutting shags right now. It’s like a gender-neutral mullet with lots of texture and movement. The ‘Farrah Fawcett’ cut is still my favorite, but now we call it the ‘Butterfly Cut.’ I also love working with reds and coppers for color. Show me someone who’s never dyed their hair before and wants a bold color, and I’m all in.
IH: What’s your long-term vision for your career?
BR: I honestly don’t know where this journey will take me. Right now, I’m focused on enjoying my time behind the chair with clients I love. I could expand and become more of a businesswoman, or I could travel and style hair for weddings. The possibilities are endless, and I’m excited to see where it all leads.
