Today we’d like to introduce you to Carli Reith.
Hi Carli, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started doing hair in 2012 and quickly realized it was about so much more than just the services — it was about relationships. Over the years, I built my clientele with a focus on intentional, personalized sessions where women feel seen, heard, and confident.
That passion led me to open Carli Rene’ Salon, where my goal has always been to create more than just a chair — I wanted to build something meaningful. As I’ve grown, so has my vision. I recently launched my own hair extension brand, driven by a desire to provide high-quality products while also supporting other stylists and building something my daughters can one day be proud of.
Being a mother has shifted how I define success. For me, it’s about growth, integrity, community, and creating a business that allows me to lead with purpose — both behind the chair and beyond it.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Building something from scratch comes with a lot of hard lessons. I’ve navigated difficult renter situations, stepped into hiring and managing employees for the first time, learned how to handle schedules, inventory, and leadership — all while still being behind the chair.
Launching my hair extension brand from the ground up has been one of the most challenging and rewarding things I’ve done. From sourcing and negotiating with manufacturers to quality control, branding, and education — there was no blueprint. I had to figure it out as I went.
There have been stressful seasons, financial risks, and moments of doubt. But every challenge forced me to level up. It taught me boundaries, stronger leadership, and how to build with long-term vision instead of reacting emotionally.
As you know, we’re big fans of Carli Rene’ Salon & Grae Leigh Hair Co.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Carli Rene’ Salon is built on intentional, relationship-driven hair services specializing in lived-in color and luxury hand-tied extensions. I’m known for creating seamless, natural-looking transformations that enhance confidence without feeling overdone. What sets my work apart is the experience — every session is personalized, detail-focused, and rooted in trust. It’s not transactional; it’s collaborative.
Grae Leigh Hair Co. is my extension brand, created from the ground up with a focus on premium quality, education, and integrity. I work directly with manufacturers to ensure consistent density, durability, and performance behind the chair. I’m proud that it’s not just another extension line — it’s a brand built intentionally, with education and long-term sustainability at the forefront.
As I transition into a more focused studio space, my goal is refinement — serving my core clients at a high level while continuing to grow Grae Leigh strategically. Everything I build is rooted in quality, meaningful relationships, and creating something that lasts.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My biggest advice is to find mentors and environments that truly invest in your growth. Early in my career, I experienced what it felt like to work hard without being poured into — to apprentice but not be taught, to give more than I received. That shaped me more than I realized at the time.
Now, as a salon owner and educator, I’m intentional about doing things differently. With stylists like Kailey and Norah, my goal has and will always be transparency, hands-on education, and real opportunity. I never want someone working alongside me to feel overlooked or undervalued.
I would tell anyone starting out: protect your confidence, ask questions, and don’t confuse loyalty with tolerating misalignment. The right environment will stretch you — but it will also support you.
Growth takes time, but where you choose to grow matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.carlirenesalon.com
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/carlireithdoesmyhair
