Today we’d like to introduce you to Leigha Lane.
Hi Leigha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up in Syracuse, New York, with creativity quietly pulling at me from the start. I went to a small Catholic high school where college was the only expected path, but I dreamed of art school. When my parents weren’t on board, I had to pivot, studying science in college while working as a salon receptionist.
That salon changed everything. It was the first time I saw a career that combined everything I loved- art, science, and human connection and it instantly felt like home. I dropped out of college, enrolled in beauty school, and instantly became the black sheep of my family. It was an isolating time for sure, full of doubt, but also the beginning of something bigger.
I was constantly told I was “living in a fairytale,” which I find poetic now because years later, I founded The Jules Foundation, a nonprofit that helps cosmetology students chase their dreams through scholarship. It’s named after my dear friend Julia, who passed away at just 24, and it’s my way of honoring both her legacy and the dreamers who dare to believe in their own fairytales.
I spent six years building a beautiful career and clientele in Syracuse, but there was always that inner voice whispering that there was more. One of my mentors connected me with a salon in Georgia, and with nothing but faith, I packed up my car and moved to Atlanta without knowing a single soul.
That decision changed my life. Ten years later, Atlanta feels like home in every sense. I’ve worked across the city from Roswell to Inman Park to West Midtown, taught classes, became certified in multiple color lines, took the stage as a platform artist, worked behind the chair in New York City, joined Modern Salon’s Artist Collective, and collaborated with an international beauty brand. I’ve built not just a career, but a community. My goal has always been to make people feel seen, beautiful and confident, while helping the next generation of stylists feel supported in chasing their own version of success.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road definitely hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been interesting! And I wouldn’t trade the lessons for anything. The beauty industry might look glamorous from the outside, but behind the scenes, it can be tough. Working with artists is inspiring, but it also comes with egos, politics, and glass ceilings. Some owners want you to succeed, but only to a certain point. Once you outgrow their version of success, you suddenly become the problem.
I’ve faced moments where using my voice wasn’t always welcomed. But I’ve learned that staying true to myself is non-negotiable. I came to Atlanta alone, but I didn’t stay that way for long, the right people have a way of finding you. One of them was Chloe, whose steady presence reminds me to stand tall in my voice and my vision.
That’s part of why I trademarked my signature phrase, “love you, mean it xx,” for The Jules Foundation. To me, the “mean it” is the most important part, it’s about following through, turning intention into action, and building a community rooted in authenticity and appreciation.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in color, the kind that looks effortless, dimensional, and naturally sunlit. I’m certified in multiple color lines and teach private salon classes.
When I describe my work, I like to paint a picture: think deep, rich chocolate drizzled with caramel, or an icy blonde topped with whipped cream. I actually built my brand around comparing balayage to coffee, it became a fun, approachable way to connect with clients and help them visualize color in a way that feels familiar.
What sets me apart, I think, is connection. My clients don’t need to know what a shadow root, base bump, or tip-out means – that’s my job. But I do want them to understand what they’re getting, to feel seen, and to trust the process. At the end of the day, it’s about translating artistry into something that helps people feel like the best version of themselves.
I’m most proud of the women I’ve mentored along the way. Seeing them step into their confidence, build beautiful careers, and create lives that reflect who they are reminds me why I fell in love with this industry in the first place.
What’s next?
I’m so excited for the future! I know it’s going to be incredible but right now, I’m focused on today. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s next, but I’ve learned that real joy comes from being present. My life feels full and grounded; I’ve found a peace I’ll protect with my whole being.
I get to work alongside a group of women who have been through so much together, and I couldn’t be prouder of how far we’ve come. There’s a deep trust and loyalty between us that makes every day feel purposeful.
Beyond the salon, I co-founded Ritual, a social wellness club, with my dear client-turned-friend, Alex. It’s a true reflection of what we were all craving, deeper connection, a sense of belonging, and holistic wellness that feels approachable, beautiful, and real.
Most days, you’ll find me behind the chair in West Midtown, hosting Ritual events across the city, or spending time with my goldendoodle, Aspen.
Love you, mean it xx
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thejulesfoundation.net
- Instagram: @leighalane
- Other: https://www.theritualatl.com
