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Meet Elizabeth Riley of Salon Artemis & Apothecary

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Riley.

Elizabeth Riley

Hi Beth, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
My journey began in 1999 when I discovered my passion for being of service, with cosmetology as the conduit. I realized that helping others feel confident and empowered through their appearance was something I deeply enjoyed. After years of working for others, in 2003, I decided to pursue my dream and opened my sole proprietorship. It was a leap of faith, but I was determined to create a space beyond providing exceptional hair services. I wanted to create an environment where clients could truly transform, both externally and internally. To achieve this vision, I embraced this multidimensional entrepreneur’s CEO role. I delved into the world of hair and the alchemy of magic. I infused classic style with new techniques and trends. I continued my education; I studied the art of mixing colors, the science behind hair care, and the magic of transformative styling. This alchemical approach allows me to create unique experiences for each client, tailored to their needs and desires. But my journey doesn’t stop there.

True transformation goes beyond appearances. It involves embracing one’s authentic self and connecting with their inner power. This led me to explore the realm of female embodiment coaching, where I support clients in embracing their femininity, cultivating self-love, and developing a deep sense of confidence. I founded SOOUL Circle, Sisters of One United Love. SOOUL Circle is a female embodiment circle where women can be seen, heard, and witnessed, including chakra balancing and oil anointing. Today, my salon is more than just a place for hair and beauty. It’s a sanctuary where clients can be seen, heard, and celebrated.

One leg of this journey that’s been challenging is being in recovery from alcohol since august of 2020. I really feel that this is a huge part of my journey, that I want to share. It’s never to late! I feel like this body I’m in, is a safe place to be! Therefore I’m able to be a source of safety for others as well! Don’t stop before the miracle happens. When I decided to share that we do recover!! Healed people heal people! It’s an honor and a privilege I get to do both!!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I have been doing hair for over two decades and was most challenged during the pandemic. It was the first time in my career I had ever been shut down and on unemployment. When we were allowed to open back up, not only was I concerned about health and safety, but it was also a rough political climate. It wasn’t easy to keep everyone’s experience unique. There were a lot of crossovers, and not everyone agreed with everything.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
It’s more than just an appointment; it’s an experience. Each experience is unique to the individual. My studio is a sacred and safe space for my clients to receive various services. At Salon Artemis, I specialize in color, blonding, color correction, and working with hair of all textures. More recently, I expanded my services to include hand-tied extensions. Salon Artemis can give you the hair of your dreams. As an Apothecary, I am an oil anointing priestess; I create custom oil blends and hand made soaks and scrubs. I can provide Oracle card readings, energy healing, and shadow work. I am also a barber, and have done my barber cross over. I love making all individuals look and feel good! I also make hand-crafted beard oil. I just wanted to add that I continue my education, it’s on going!

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I am an only child. Growing up was difficult because my parents were young when they had me. I was outgoing and entertaining, as well as easily entertained. Very creative. I loved art and music growing up, which have influenced me and inspired me. I was and continue to be interested in the metaphysical. I loved learning about history and the connection history has with women in particular. My grandma had a salon where I got the idea of what I wanted to be when I grew up. My grandma always told me that getting my license would help me earn an income and support me if I ever chose to do anything else.

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