Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Smith.
Hi Kelsey, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have always been passionate about empowering women and working in the beauty industry. Although my original route after high school didn’t immediately lead me to cosmetology school, the desire to enter this profession began to grow louder within me. I worked a day job and attended school at night to earn my cosmetology license in 2015. Upon graduation, I secured a position at an established Spartanburg salon and began to hone my craft, learning where I excelled and educating myself at every opportunity. After a few years, I took a leap of faith and rented a salon suite to open my very first entrepreneurial venture, Studio K by Kelsey Fowler. After a few years, I recognized I wanted to spend time under the tutelage of another well-recognized Spartanburg salon owner, and transitioned to a booth rental agreement. During this time, I learned how to do extensions and also expand my work in specialized color treatments that were trending in the industry. I met my future salon partner at this salon, and a joint venture at Canvas Boutique Salon was the result. I focused my energies on learning more about the work required to run my own business on a larger scale, and I poured my energies into becoming an owner who emphasized growth, education, empathy, and sharing my knowledge and experience to empower other female entrepreneurs to realize their dreams. Canvas Boutique Salon gave us a high level of local recognition and achievement, and put us on the map as a destination salon in Spartanburg County. My goal to open a full-service salon of my dreams pulled at me once again. Building on my experience, knowledge, and an amazing team of stylists who shared my vision and wanted to be a part of something empowering, I opened The Gallery Salon in Converse Corners in April of 2025. The salon features eight of the most amazing, compassionate, and dedicated artists who share the same commitment to the client that I demonstrate daily. Our aesthetic is peaceful and relaxing, offering the highest quality services in a beautiful and convenient atmosphere in East Spartanburg. I have always realized that as an owner, I must instill confidence, trust, and a genuine love for those who work with me day in and day out, and achieving this goal has given me satisfaction beyond description. The loyalty of my clients, many of whom have been with me for years, inspires me to keep learning, growing, and offering the services they deserve. I continue to be a role model for young women and especially for my two young boys, who get to grow up and watch their mother succeed through hard work.
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?
I don’t think that anyone who goes from school to booth renter to owner can say the road is smooth; however, having the support of my teachers and fellow hair artists from school, my husband and kids, and my family and friends has made the journey worthwhile, even on the bumpiest of days. There is a lesson to be learned from both success and failure. There is a lesson to be learned in working under the best of conditions and even when faced with challenges. I think that if life puts obstacles in your path, you can use them as excuses or even failures, or you can ask yourself how they’ve made you a better person, and especially a better business owner. I’ve learned that women need to support other women. I’ve learned that competition should bring out the best in me and be inspiring, collaborative, and even soft. Being a female leader in my industry does not mean I have to lose what makes me inherently female. I can be kind, loving, compassionate, show empathy and strength by sharing and leading with kindness without feeling threatened that my role as a female entrepreneur is not a success or that another’s success diminishes my own. I celebrate the growth and success of the other salon owners in my community, and I’m grateful to have received their support in return. I learn from my clients and team every day, and I appreciate every person who enters The Gallery Salon and shows their belief in my dream. A happy team and happy clients are the true measure of my success as a strong, female leader in Spartanburg County.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Gallery Salon . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We pride ourselves not only on the exceptional quality of our services, but also on the genuine relationships we build with our clients. Whether you’re coming in for a precision cut, bespoke color, or a transformative styling session, you’ll be met with attentive consultation and tailored care. Our team is highly skilled, continually trained in the latest techniques, and committed to ensuring that your look reflects both your personality and lifestyle.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
My favorite podcast is The Thriving Stylist Podcast by Britt Seva. Her podcast gives practical advice for the every day stylist and motivational content.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Thegallerysalon.co
- Instagram: @hairby.kelseysmith
- Facebook: Kelsey Smith Professional Hair Stylist
