My Story.
My Why.
el·e·vate
/ˈeləˌvāt/
raise or lift (something) up to a higher position.
raise to a more important or impressive level
Welcome Beauties! My name is Christen and I was born and raised in WNY. My journey to land where I am today, has been nothing in the ordinary. Let's start from the beginning...
Press rewind to 2012. I was graduating from Buffalo State College with my degree in Fashion Textile, and Technology. With big dreams and high hopes, I was off to pursue a career in the Fashion world and take a chance to plant roots in my favorite, NYC. I always envisioned myself owning a boutique... but sometimes Gods plans are bigger than one's we have for ourselves. While I had some incredible experiences and met some amazing people, I was practically working like the 'Devil Wears Prada'. Plus I missed my family and friends and just shy of a year later, I was back in Buffalo. (Also, nowhere compares when it comes to football season- Bills Fan for Life!)
Upon moving home, I continued to work the most unglamourous, mundane office jobs. I thought to myself, I left an amazing opportunity, the fashion center of the world, just to sit here?! I didn’t know what I wanted to do. Nor did I truly love any job I held. So, who else in their right mind would do what I did next? I quit my full time job with full benefits (can you say terrifying) and took the leap to pursue Cosmetology. (It was that or school for my MBA.)
Jump forward a few years, through many long hour days, learning as much as I can about the industry, continuing education, with a few tears (ok, a lot of tears) and many more laughs, Elevate Hair Loft was born.
Which brings us here, why 'Elevate?'
Throughout my life, there have been many obstacles, heartache and lives lost, where I had to overcome life's challenges. Where to go when you're at rock bottom? How to uplift your spirits with devastating news? Hearing your youngest brother isn't going to make it. There's only one way to go. UP.
So when it came time decide on a salon name, that wasn't much of a question. With many obstacles comes many outlets to help you zen out and regroup. I knew I wanted to bring my love of the beach, my happy place, into my space to epitomize those relaxing beachy vibes. But I was still stuck on a name. Brainstorming with friends with similar life experiences, someone said, "Base it off your life! everything you've been through!"
Elevate; raise or lift up to a higher position. It is more than just a sign on my door. It has deeper meaning that encompasses a part of who I am and what I want to bring out in each and every client relationship. Raise your spirits. Boost your confidence. Be a listening ear. Empathize with you. Elevate your hair and mood.
So here we are! I finally have a career I absolutely LOVE! Fashion & Hair fit hand-in-hand perfectly. I couldn’t be happier to have found both careers in one! If you’re looking to elevate your dull, grown-out hair with little up-keep, I'm your girl! My expertise is lived-in blondes that allows for that 'sun-kissed' look, with little maintenance. I am so thankful to enjoy what I do every day. Without all my amazing clients, I wouldn't be here today.
With love & gratitude,
Christen xo