Meet Violet Perrey of BOULDER

Today we’d like to introduce you to Violet Perrey.

Hi violet, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve loved hair for as long as I can remember styling my dolls as a child, braiding, and watching the beauty routines that were part of my family life. In 5th grade, my mom moved us to Boulder, which turned out to be life changing since the school district offered a vocational hairstyling program. Traditional classrooms never suited me I learn best hands on so that program gave me the chance to turn a childhood passion into a real career.

At 18, I started at Great Clips, which gave me speed and basic experience, but I craved creativity and growth. I apprenticed at a high end salon in Boulder, where I gained valuable training (and a strong work ethic, thanks to plenty of “Cinderella” duties). Still, I wanted more, and after bouncing between chain salons and even trying an office job, I realized I belonged in the salon world.

My breakthrough came when I joined the Aveda assistant program in Denver. I instantly connected with their culture, mission, and artistry. Completing the program, I finally felt at home building my skills, working with a team that felt like family, and growing a fulfilling career. Over time, I also became a bridal stylist, specializing in weddings for more than six years, which allowed me to combine creativity with the joy of being part of such meaningful moments.

In 2020, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Thailand with HairAid, teaching women in a Chiang Mai prison how to cut hair. When COVID hit, I had to return home unexpectedly, and soon after I went through a difficult breakup. Those challenges pushed me to seek a fresh start and new opportunities, and they deepened my appreciation for the resilience, creativity, and community this career has always given me.

In 2024, I brought everything full circle by opening Ultra Violet Hair Studio in Boulder a space built on the values of artistry, authenticity, and connection that have shaped my entire journey in this industry.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road by any means I’ve faced many challenges and personal struggles along the way. At times it’s been hard not to compare myself to others, to feel discouraged, or to think things must be easier for them, even though everyone has their own story. Opening a business has pushed me to question my abilities, my self worth, and whether I was truly capable of making it work.

I’m lucky to have a life partner who supports me unconditionally and always has my back. One of the hardest moments came on the very first day I opened my business. After a long day of work, he picked me up after spending his day snowboarding with friends. When we arrived back at our house in the mountains outside of Lyons, our dogs jumped out of the car and, in the chaos, he was trampled by a moose.

We had saved money to help us through the growing pains of starting out, but his injury and recovery meant he couldn’t work for a while. That put a huge financial strain on us, yet we kept pushing forward. As difficult as it was, we faced it together as a team, determined to keep working toward our dreams and making them a reality.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I often say I do a little bit of everything. After nearly 20 years in the industry, I’ve learned so much, and from the beginning, I wanted to be the kind of stylist who could confidently work with anyone who sat in my chair. If there was ever something I didn’t know, I was determined to learn it that curiosity and commitment to growth is what keeps my passion alive.

In my business, I offer a full-service menu, catering to men, women, and kids. From a quick trim or touch-up to a complete transformation or bold creative color, I love tailoring each service to fit the individual. For the past six wedding seasons, I’ve also specialized in bridal styling, which has given me the joy of working alongside some incredibly talented hair and makeup artists to create unforgettable looks for brides on their big day.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
As a child, I was naturally free spirited and independent a social butterfly who loved nothing more than being outdoors. Whether I was riding my bike, playing with friends, or exploring nature, I was endlessly curious about the world and determined to figure things out on my own. Animals, bugs, and the simple wonders of being outside fascinated me, and that curiosity shaped much of who I am today.

At the same time, I carried a shyness that often held me back. Lacking confidence made it hard to fully step into my true self, and it took time for me to find my voice. Even now, as an adult, I continue to work on trusting myself and leaning into that confidence. It’s a journey I’m still on but one that has taught me resilience, self awareness, and the importance of growth.

Pricing:

• Haircuts $45+
• Color $200+
• Braiding $100+
• Bridal $100+

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Uvhairstudio.com
• Instagram: @ultraviolet_hairstudio
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GQXCAXmuW/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits
Family portrait captured by Jeffrey Goldberg
Ultra violet logo designed by Zak Amadeus Kipke