Danielle Pointer of College Park on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Danielle Pointer shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Danielle, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
Moving into my own salon suite after my surgery was a huge change, and I’ll admit I was a little nervous about leaving the open, communal energy of the old salon behind. But what I discovered in that private space has been the most surprising and rewarding part of my career.

It wasn’t just about giving my clients a new look; it was about creating a sacred, vulnerable space where they felt safe to truly open up. I’ve had clients sit in my chair, not just to get their hair done, but to share their deepest fears, their biggest victories, and everything in between. We’ve prayed together, cried together, and had conversations that simply wouldn’t have been possible in a crowded room.

This experience has taught me that my role is so much more than being a hairstylist. My clients have shown me the importance of being fully present, of listening with my whole heart, and of recognizing the profound trust they place in me. They’ve taught me that in this quiet, one-on-one setting, I’m not just doing their hair—I’m holding space for them to heal, to feel seen, and to know they’re not alone. It’s an honor I’ll never take for granted.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Since we last spoke, I’ve had a lot of personal and professional growth, which has really brought a new level of clarity to my work. My faith has always been a part of who I am, but over the past year, it has given me a new kind of boldness, a confidence to truly be who I’m called to be, not just as an artist, but as a person.

I’ve learned that my gifts aren’t just for doing hair; they’re also for building relationships. Whether I’m shampooing, styling, or cutting, it’s not just about the technical skill. It’s about the integrity and care I bring to that moment. I believe it’s my responsibility to show every client love and respect, treating them as a person, not just a service. This shift has allowed me to build a genuine community with my clients, and it’s incredibly rewarding to do what I love while also operating with a clear sense of purpose and integrity.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
Growing up, I was fortunate to have two incredible role models in my parents, who each modeled a powerful work ethic. My mom managed our home with dedication and excellence, and my dad was fully committed to his job outside the home. They taught us a core lesson: no matter the task, whether it was a school project or a chore around the house, we should approach it with integrity and a commitment to doing our best.

I’ve carried this lesson with me every single day. It was the foundation of my discipline in the Army, the drive behind my journey as an entrepreneur, and it continues to shape my personal life. This strong work ethic isn’t just about getting things done; it’s a part of my character, and I am grateful for the values my parents instilled in me.”

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
A recent and very personal journey has given me a new perspective on facing challenges and finding my purpose. I’ve always believed that when you acknowledge and face your fears, you can truly begin to heal. I learned this on a deeper level recently when I had to come to terms with the fact that I might not be able to have a child of my own.

This was incredibly difficult for me. For a long time, I was trying to push through the pain, both emotionally and physically, and I was allowing it to control the narrative of my life. I had to make a conscious decision to relinquish that control and surrender to a different path—one that required a medical solution and a deep dive into my faith, God.

Once I had the surgery and allowed my body to genuinely heal, everything changed. I was able to move forward without that constant, draining pain. This experience taught me that carrying unnecessary burdens, whether physical or emotional, prevents you from stepping into your true purpose. By choosing to heal, I not only got my life back, but I also discovered a new version of myself. It’s in this new, healthier space that I’m able to do things I never thought possible, and I’m deeply thankful for the clarity and peace this journey has brought me.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I truly believe that what you see is what you get, and my public self is definitely my authentic self. It’s too exhausting to be one person at home and another at work. As a wife, a friend, a fashionista, and a stylist, my goal is to be the same genuine person in every space.

This is especially important in my work. When a client sits in my chair, they aren’t just getting a service; they’re connecting with the real me. I make it a point to genuinely care about each person, and I never pretend to be someone I’m not. I believe that your true character always shines through regardless, and I’m dedicated to living and working as the person God created me to be—with integrity and authenticity in everything I do.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing? 
I regret nothin! My journey to becoming a hairstylist was not a straight line, but every step was necessary to get me to where I am today. Early on, I had a plan for college or the Army. I started with college, but ended up serving in the Army. The Army gave me the opportunity to travel and meet people from all over the world, which helped me realize that what I was truly passionate about was hair.

Over the last 15 years, I’ve come to understand that my work is more than a service. It’s a space for healing, for shared laughter, and for genuine connection with my clients. I have no regrets about the path I’ve taken because it has led me to a career where I find immense purpose and joy. I believe it was all God ordained, and that’s the source of my joy and dedication to my work.

Image Credits
Danielle Denice