Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Gowen
Hi Tara, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into the world of cosmetology wasn’t a straightforward one. Initially, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in business, largely because I wasn’t supported in my passion for hair–my mother believed it wasn’t a viable career path. However, I couldn’t ignore my calling as it was something I had wanted to do since I was a little girl. So, I took the more challenging road and earned my cosmetology license, graduating as the salutatorian of my class without any support system.
I began my career at a hair cuttery but quickly realized my passion extended beyond quick services–I wanted to be in a full-service salon. I mentored under phenomenal master stylists, honing my craft, but the environment wasn’t always the most encouraging. Seeking a change, I transitioned into full-service men’s grooming while enlisting in the Air Force where I gained valuable experience and confidence. During this time, I moved frequently due to the military, allowing me to experience different regions and gain insight into the diverse styles and cultures within the hair industry.
Eventually, I found myself missing the creativity and connection that comes with working on a diverse clientele of both men and women. I returned to full-service hair and mentored under another exceptional master cosmetologist who owned her own salon. However, the work environment proved to be toxic, and I knew it was time to take control of my own path. Leaning on my business background, I opened my own salon suite as well as a brick-and-mortar boutique in the midwest, embracing both my entrepreneurial spirit and my love for beauty.
Despite my success, I deeply missed the Lowcountry and wanted to be intentional about my next move. By this point in my career, I had a clear vision of who I was, what I valued, and the kind of salon culture I wanted to be a part of. I spent months researching and exploring options until I discovered Whip Salon on Hilton Head Island in beautiful South Carolina. From the moment I met Amy Pal, I knew I had found the perfect fit. At Whip Salon, I feel empowered, supported, and truly free to be myself. While I have always been ambitious and entrepreneurial, I now feel like I’m in a partnership where I can thrive without needing to do it all on my own. This journey has been filled with challenges, growth, and transformation, but every step has led me to where I am today–a master cosmetologist passionate about my craft, the associates I mentor, and the community I serve.
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?
My journey as a hairstylist has been one of continuous learning, growth, and perfecting my craft. The technical side of my career—education, skill-building, and elevating my artistry—has always been a smooth and rewarding process. However, the real challenge has been finding a truly nurturing environment that values education, quality work, and a healthy workplace culture.
As a cosmetologist, I understand that time is money, but I also believe in delivering top-tier service with integrity. Too often, the pressures of running a business prioritize revenue over quality, and I’ve struggled to find a place where my values align—where excellence in service, fair compensation, and a commitment to integrity are the foundation of the business. Throughout my journey, I’ve met people from all walks of life, but it wasn’t until I joined Whip Salon that I found a leader who truly embodies these principles. Here, I’ve discovered not just a thriving business, but a workplace that fosters growth, supports education, and prioritizes both clients and stylists. It’s inspiring to work in an environment where excellence and integrity go hand in hand, and I’m grateful to be part of a salon that truly values both its clients and its team.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a hairstylist, I see myself as a problem solver. My clients often come to me feeling frustrated with their hair, unsure of how to achieve the look they truly want. My job is to bridge that gap—taking their vision and making it a reality in a way that works for their unique hair type and lifestyle. Many people believe their hair goals are unattainable, but in most cases, they simply haven’t been paired with the right stylist. That’s where I come in. While I’m a beautician, not a magician, my education and experience allow me to create transformations that feel just as magical.
I specialize in color services, including blonding, gray blending, and color corrections, as well as working with fine, thinning, and damaged hair. What sets me apart is my dedication to not only delivering beautiful results but also elevating the entire salon experience. I want my clients to leave with their dream hair, but I also want them to enjoy the process—feeling relaxed, heard, and confident every step of the way. Every service I provide is customized to the individual, ensuring that each client receives a tailored experience that suits their needs and preferences. For me, it’s not just about the end result; it’s about making every appointment an experience to look forward to.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is working in an environment built on integrity, quality, and continuous growth. I believe that success in this industry isn’t just about skill—it’s about the commitment to always improving, both as a stylist and as a team. I want to work with people who value education, mentorship, and the betterment of both their staff and their company. A salon should be a place where seasoned stylists help nurture the next generation, creating a culture of support rather than competition. When everyone is focused on learning and lifting each other up, the entire team thrives, and clients receive the best possible care.
I am deeply passionate about providing my clients with an exceptional experience. While there may always be more technically talented stylists, I take pride in my dedication to growth and in the relationships I build with my clients. My goal is to ensure that every person who sits in my chair feels relaxed, heard, and understood. Beyond creating beautiful hair, I want to provide a space where my clients feel valued and confident. To me, that is the true mark of a great stylist—not just skill, but the ability to connect, listen, and deliver a service that makes people feel their best.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.whipsalon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whippedbytara?igsh=amJ4YWk5cmVoOXZi&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/whiipsalon
- Other: http://instagram.com/whipsalon
