Today we’d like to introduce you to Riley Fuchs.
Hi Riley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a third generation stylist, I’ve been surrounded by the beauty industry my entire life. I graduated high school a semester early in December 2018 and started cosmetology school right away in January 2019, graduating that December. I began my career in January 2020 assisting two stylists at a commission salon in Olathe, and after the COVID shutdown that spring, I came back ready to grow and began taking my own clients and fixing all the quarantine cuts and colors. That experience pushed me to refine my skills and build confidence early on.
In May 2022, I opened RF Artistry Hair Studio in a tiny 8×9 suite in Olathe with a dream to create a space that felt equal parts luxury and comfort. As my business grew, I upgraded and moved to a 10×11 suite in Overland Park in 2023, and got certified in the Harper Ellis Hair Co. Concealed Bead Method that September, and most recently expanded again to a 13×11 window studio as I prepare to grow my business even more.
What started as a one woman suite has evolved into a thriving brand with loyal clients, a waitlist, and exciting plans for the future. I’ll be expanding my team next year by bringing on an assistant which is the first step toward building the salon I’ve always dreamed of. It’s been a mix of passion, grit, and a lot of late nights, but seeing women leave my chair with confidence they didn’t have before makes it all worth it.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, especially in the beginning. I opened RF Artistry when I was only 21, and while I had the drive and passion, I didn’t have a clear vision for where I wanted my business to go yet. My belief lid was low and I didn’t fully see what was possible for me as a stylist or a business owner.
There was a lot of personal growth that had to happen before I could grow professionally. Learning to lead myself, manage a business, and step into that next level mindset took time and intention. In 2023, I met my mentor Terra Harvell, owner and CEO of Harper Ellis Hair Co., and she completely changed my perspective. She’s helped me gain clarity, build confidence, and raise my belief in what’s possible and not just in business, but personally too. Because of that mentorship, I’ve achieved more than I ever thought I could, and I’m continuing to grow into the owner and leader I’m meant to be.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At RF Artistry Hair Studio, I specialize in hand-tied hair extensions and custom color, helping women with fine hair or hair loss feel confident again. My goal is to create transformations that look and feel completely natural to the point that no one can tell you’re wearing extensions, but everyone notices how confident you look.
I’m known for my attention to detail, seamless blends, and for creating an experience that’s both luxury and approachable. I use the Harper Ellis Concealed Bead Method, which allows for undetectable, lightweight, and comfortable wear and it’s truly changed the way my clients feel about their hair.
What I’m most proud of is the brand I’ve built from the ground up and one that empowers women to feel beautiful, seen, and confident. What sets me apart is that I don’t just focus on hair; I focus on the whole experience. Every guest who walks through my door feels cared for, listened to, and understood.
What are your plans for the future?
My long-term goal is to open one of the Harper Ellis franchise salons and utilize their Strata Salon System to help change the salon industry for the better. Strata is designed to give stylists structure, leadership, and the opportunity to build wealth and something that’s often missing in our industry. I want to bring that model to Kansas and create a space where stylists can grow, feel supported, and build long-term success doing what they love. I’ve learned that growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone, and I’m so excited for everything that’s still ahead: the team, the salon, and continuing to make women feel their most confident selves every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rfartistry.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rf.artistry/?hl=en
