Daily Inspiration: Meet Brittney Shanks

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittney Shanks.

Hi Brittney, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
Growing up, I dreamed of a career as a classical musician or artist. Things changed, though when there wasn’t enough money for me to finish my degree and I had no choice but drop out of college. This ended up being really fortunate for me. I worked as a barista for several years and met my partner during that time. While I was trying to decide on a more pragmatic career, several different friends and acquaintances said to me (unprompted) that they were thinking about going to beauty school. It just kept coming up, and I know a sign when I hear one, so I enrolled in the cosmetology program at Guilford Tech shortly after getting married. 

Being a hairstylist allows me to draw on my creativity every day, turn my clients into art, and make all kinds of friends. I’m so grateful to have found my way to this career! 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
We all have struggles, right? Working my way through cosmetology school was pretty brutal. I was putting in about 70 hours a week between my job and school. 

Then, I spent several years building my skills and client base at a salon with a very stressful and toxic work environment. I turned in my notice and was immediately dismissed on March 9, 2020. Two weeks later, salons across the country were forced to close their doors! It was a crazy year, but by the end of it I was working in my dream salon, and my clients were thrilled with our new home at Alkali Studio 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My specialty is transforming natural waves and curls into styles that enhance their natural beauty with cool shapes and bold color. I love a rock n roll shag with a playful color story! I love my natural curls, but after getting many BAD haircuts in middle school, I decided to cut my own hair and hope for the best. I actually didn’t have a professional haircut from age 13 to 23, when I entered cosmetology school! I want to help others learn how to love their curls because we really are so lucky to have them. 

How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
The best way to work with me is by visiting our salon website to book an appointment. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.studioalkali.com
• Instagram: @brittneyshanks.stylist

Image Credits
Enchanted Hills Photography