Conversations with Heather Steven-Morton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Steven-Morton

Hi Heather, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My love for hair began while I was working with 303 Magazine as a Fashion Column Journalist, as well as working as a Salon Coordinator. I worked behind the scenes for upscale fashion shows, photo shoots, and weddings during this time, and quickly realized my love for fashion could be used in the Hair Industry as well. This is when I realized hair and makeup were much more fun, creative, and hands-on than the clothing side of fashion.

I graduated from Paul Mitchell School Denver in 2016 and have been pursuing continued education, refinement of my skills, opportunities to work with trending fashions, and growing my business ever since. I think it is important to always stay humble in this industry, and continue to learn new trends and techniques that you can educate your clientele on. My clients are my passion and I never take it for granted that they trust me with their hair.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Honestly, it took me a long time to find myself and realize what I was most passionate about. I never wanted to follow the traditional path, so, my journey took a more bumpy and elongated path.

I was a late bloomer to the hair industry – I took a lot of small jobs in any part of the fashion industry that I could find; and when I realized I enjoyed the beauty industry side more, I held a lot of bobby pins and hairspray as I watched amazing stylists behind the scenes at runway shows.

I am grateful for the small beginnings and small roles that I took part in because they showed me who I was and what I wanted in a career.

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?
I am a Self Employed Cosmetologist. Until very recently, I was running my salon suite in Denver – I am now working as a booth/chair rental stylist at a small boutique salon in Park Hill – COMMON Salon. I specialize and am known for Blondes, Lived-In Color, and Balayage services. I am a certified Master of Balayage Artist, through the Master course by Ryan Weeden.

I learned French Balayage painting through my time with Sweep Salons, I was taught by the owner, Kate Manz. I learned my blonding techniques and skills from my mentor, Heather Quintana, during my time at Envogue Salon. The teachers I have had in my career set me apart in my skill set and my people skills.

I am most proud of how far I have come in my skill set, in my almost 8 years of being in this industry. I pride myself on staying humble, well-educated, and passionate about this industry and all that it has to offer. My connection and partnership with my clients are so important to me, I wouldn’t be where I am today, without my loyal clientele.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting.
Education and patience truly are everything in this industry. The more you learn, and the more teachers or mentors that you have, the better your skill set will be.

There is no one way to do anything in this field, always remember that your creativity is what makes you the artist that you are, it’s okay to do things differently than those on social media or who are well-known in the industry. Clients look for your individuality and fresh take on things, so learn new things as much as you can, but put your spin on things.

It is so hard to build a following and feel adequate in this industry. Just remember that it takes time, and quality is more important than quantity. Don’t pressure yourself to fit into a specific timeline, you’ll achieve everything you want in due time, just keep learning and hustling.

Pricing:

• Full French Balayage and Cut – $380 starting
• Creative Balayage and Cut – $430 starting
• Full Highlight and Cut – $280 starting
• Transitional Color – $125 per hour

Contact Info:

• Website: heathernsteven.com
• Instagram: @beauty.by.heathernicole

Image Credits
Luke V. Gottlieb @victorofvalencia