Life & Work with Harriet Scott

Today we’d like to introduce you to Harriet Scott.

Hi Harriet, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I entered the beauty industry at 17 when after much personal and professional deliberation, I decided to enroll at Paul Mitchell in Overland Park. Previously, I had been college bound and was looking to go into a field that would allow me to make a tangible difference in people’s lives while being as creative and independent as possible. Although not originally my first choice, cosmetology school was something that I could finance myself, and became my first real investment in my future and career. Cosmetology has helped me fulfil my initial goal- to uplift others while harnessing my creativity and become an independent business owner. School covered the basics, and as with any stylist’s career, the first few years of mine were spent on practice, practice, practice. Without the help of a very trusting support system, I would not have been able to strengthen my skills in as many areas, particularly curly/natural styles and corrective color.

Starting in South Overland Park and working my way towards Downtown Overland Park, I spent two years assisting then styling in an extension-focused salon where I learned the ins and outs of the salon business. During my third year as a stylist I began training to become an educator, and before long I was teaching color theory and application to other professionals. I began teaching solo classes, and now in my seventh year I’m honored to have had the privilege of teaching over five hundred professionals in Chicago, Cancun, and across the Midwest. As both I and my business grew, I knew that it was time to upgrade from my closet-sized private studio. After a year of searching for the perfect commercial location in 2018, the brick and mortar location was established in Prairie Village. We’re currently expanding, doubling in size, and looking to share the space with more talented hair artists!

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?
Most recently COVID took a terrible toll on our business and the world, and as the sole caretaker of my 87 years old grandfather, I understood that we had to play our part in keeping the community safe. There have been ups and downs- health and otherwise- but I’ve learned to prioritize my mental and physical wellness in such a way that allows me to circumvent most issues now. Burnout is very real, and working for yourself doesn’t always allow for a healthy work/life balance. I’ve also run into problems with predatory professionals, realtors, contractors, etc., who have tried to take advantage. It’s hard enough being a young woman in business, but I always get second and third opinions, and recommend knowing your business and the people that you work with well.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a Color Specialist and International Educator, and I specialize in balayage and creative color techniques. I have a wide variety of clients with different needs and aesthetics, so not doing the same thing every day keeps me fresh. When teaching, my classes focus on blonding, balayage application, and other advanced techniques. I’m drawn to all forms of design, and in my free time I enjoy mixed media art- mainly painting and weaving. I take pleasure in collaborating with other local designers and photographers, and also have a few murals on display at Graffiti Attic in Union Station.

I believe in the importance of uplifting and giving back to my community and take pride in partnering with local organizations such as Hope Faith and TedxYouth@KC.

What were you like growing up?
I’ve always been a bookworm and a creative, but balancing my left and right brains took some time to get the hang of. I had a troubled household and childhood, and after leaving home at 17 my life was truly allowed to begin. I struggled with weight issues and poor self-esteem for most of my adolescence, and realizing the power I had over my future was a positive turning point for me. I think that the transformative aspect of beauty always appealed to me, and I enjoy bringing the best out of people, as well as spending time with those that do the same for me.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: instagram.com/sunrisesalonkc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunrisesalonkc
• Other: instagram.com/hairriet

Image Credits
Nicholas Simpson, Danny Bourne