Meet Kristen McGhee of Blue Springs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen McGhee

Hi Kristen , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began at 18, uncertain of my path. Initially, I was going to go into digital marketing, but I pursued healthcare due to my love for caring for others, but four-year college wasn’t a fit, and technical programs had waitlists. This led me to cosmetology, where I obtained my license and began working while also revisiting healthcare. During my first pregnancy, I worked at St. Luke’s as a tech and realized that while I loved patient care, the mental toll was too great.

Seeking a balance with motherhood, I started part-time photography. Today, I am proud to be a hairstylist, photographer, and crafter at Leo’s Salon in Blue Springs. It has become more than just a workplace—it’s a home where I’ve discovered my true purpose, formed meaningful relationships with my clients and co-workers, and grown both professionally and personally. My best friend,Leo Bain, owner, has been instrumental in fostering this supportive environment.

At Leo’s, I am honored to help clients, advocate for self-love and mental health, and express my artistic passions. I do photography when my schedule allows, crochet gifts, and make other small crafts. I am excited about future opportunities to continue growing and making a positive impact. Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This has not always been smooth. Struggling with mental health, I often questioned my career choices, uncertain of my true calling. At one point, I didn’t think I would even finish cosmetology school due to boredom and nearly dropped out. My early career involved working at various chain salons, none of which felt like home or allowed me to be my authentic self.

Starting at Leo’s marked the beginning of my self-employed stylist career, but I had zero clientele. There were many days of doubt—wondering if I would attract enough clients, be able to pay my bills, or make a name for myself. While I am not yet where I aspire to be, I am deeply grateful for the progress I’ve made and the supportive environment at Leo’s.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What I Do
I am a dedicated hairstylist, photographer, and crafter. My work spans across creating beautiful hair colors, cuts, and styles, capturing memorable moments through photography, and crafting unique crochet and artistic pieces.

What I Specialize In
I specialize in lightening and lived-in color. Creating custom colors and highlights that enhance my clients natural beauty. Delivering modern and classic haircuts tailored to the unique preference of each client. In photography, I focus on capturing genuine emotions and special moments, ensuring each photograph tells a unique story. My crafting includes creating custom, handmade crochet items that add a personal touch to any occasion.

What I Am Known For
I am known for my attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to make my clients feel comfortable and valued. My passion for mental health advocacy also shines through in my work, as I strive to promote self-love and well-being among my clients.

What I Am Most Proud Of
I am most proud of the relationships I have built with my clients and colleagues at Leo’s. These connections have not only helped me grow professionally but have also provided a supportive community that feels like a second home.

What Sets Me Apart
What sets me apart is my holistic approach to my work. I combine my skills in hairstyling, photography, and crafting to offer a comprehensive service that goes beyond the ordinary. My commitment to mental health advocacy and creating a welcoming, supportive environment for my clients further distinguishes me in my field.

What matters most to you? Why?
it is most important to me that my clients are happy with their hair at home, not just in my chair, because true satisfaction extends beyond the salon visit. When clients can easily manage and style their hair at home, they feel confident and content every day. Ensuring clients are happy with their hair at home builds trust and loyalty, showing that I prioritize their needs and am committed to their long-term happiness. This encourages them to return and recommend my services to others.

Providing clients with hairstyles they can easily maintain at home empowers them and boosts their self-esteem, reinforcing the value of my work. My goal is to create styles that are practical and realistic for clients’ everyday lives, demonstrating my professional integrity and dedication to delivering quality results that last.

When clients are consistently pleased with their hair, they share their positive experiences, enhancing my reputation as a reliable and skilled hairstylist. This helps attract new clients and grow my business. Ultimately, my focus on ensuring clients are happy with their hair at home reflects my commitment to their overall satisfaction and well-being.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kristenmcgheekcmostylist.com
• Instagram: @kristen.mcghee.stylist & @Kristen.McGhee
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristenmcghee.kcmo