Conversations with Amber

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber.

Hi Amber, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always loved hair and makeup for as long as I can remember! From a little girl to doing all my friend’s hair and makeup in high school. I never thought I would actually do it as my career even though I always wanted to. I went to the University of North Georgia and got my degree in English and I wanted to teach high school English. During college I met my husband, Drew and I graduated right before our wedding. He told me that he knew I would make a great teacher, but he really wanted me to pursue my dreams and go to hair school. So that’s what I did! I worked at The Fringe Hair Studio in Clermont, GA with three amazing women and stylist (Tina, Shanon and Brittany) that poured all of their knowledge into me! I wouldn’t be the stylist I am without them! I worked there all through Cosmetology School and after I graduated. I then worked at another salon in Gainesville, where I met my bestie + business partner, Micah Satterfield! We dreamed up Manes Hair Co and in November of 2024 our dreams started to become reality! Now we have this really cool welcoming space and three stylist that work at Manes!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I feel like in any business venture, there are always going to be ups and downs! I have been very fortunate when it comes to Manes! I’m very thankful to have a business partner that tackles the highs and lows with me!

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I really love all things hair, but one of the best things about my job is the people I get to meet! I’m so proud that at Manes we have created a space for our clients to come in and decompress from everyday life. We truly have the best clients and I love that my clients have become my friends. I get to be part of their lives and hear their stories which is truly special!

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Take in every bit of knowledge you can and never be “too good” to learn from others! You don’t have to do hair exactly the way someone else does, but the more techniques you watch and practice – the better your own technique will be! I think when you’re starting out it is so important to be in a salon environment that truly wants you to thrive in wherever your career takes you! The hair industry has so many opportunities and you want to be surrounded by people that want to see you succeed in your dream!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @maneshairco and @manesbyamberm

Image Credits
My personal picture and the first two pictures of the team that are black and white are credited to @kara.leighphotography

Amber Mullinax