In this week's edition of Trendsetters at Work, we sat down with a savvy entrepreneur who turned a simple idea into a booming beauty business!
Alli Webb is the founder of Drybar, the sleek salon chain that offers nothing but blowouts at an affordable price.
With 29 locations nationwide under her belt, it's safe to say that she's a success story with a story to share. We sat down with the multi-tasking mother of two-turned-business woman to learn more about her career.
Here's what she shared:
How did you get started in your career?
I started doing hair when I was in my early 20's and after dabbling in a few other professions, I settled down, and became a stay-at-home mom. I loved it, but missed being a part of the work force. So I started a mobile blow dry business in LA. I quickly outgrew my one-woman show and realized there was a huge hole in the market for just blowouts—in a fun, beautiful space. I wanted to create an experience for woman that made them feel gorgeous and confident at a price that they could afford. Nothing existed, so I convinced my brother, Drybar CEO Michael and husband Cameron (creative director) to join me, and 29 shops later, we are still going strong! It's been an amazing and humbling few years. I couldn't be more proud of what we have built.
What is a typical day like for you?
I have two little boys, so most days start out pretty early trying to get them fed, dressed and out the door. After I walk the kids to school, I usually go for a 40 minute run—total ME time that I completely relish. Some days I go straight to the office, which I share with my brother, which really helps us stay connected and brainstorm on the fly! Other days, I make the rounds to our shops. I love visiting with our people (cannot believe we have over 2,000 employees!) and clients. I have been lucky enough to meet some truly amazing women.
Describe your work environment.
Our office is so fun! We work hard and play hard. The office is very open with lots of natural light and music playing all day long. My little dog Cooper always comes to work with me and spreads major love around the office. I feel very proud of the collaborative culture we have built at the office.
Tell us about your office décor or creative inspiration.
My favorite part of my office is my inspiration wall. It's full of amazing photos of hair, home decor I love, pictures of my kids, our shops and a bunch of other silly, fun things. I am constantly adding to it. It keeps the creative juices flowing.
Describe your office style. What do you typically wear to work?
It depends on the day. Most days you will catch me in skinny jeans, wedges, a cute tee and a lot of bracelets. However, I have really started embracing fun, flirty dresses. Think Free People. I'm so obsessed with everything they are doing these days. And I'm such a sucker for a girly dress with rocker boots!
Where do you shop for work clothes?
Oh, all over the place. I love so many stores and designers. Stella McCartney is at the top of my list, but I also love stores like AllSaints, Madewell, J.Crew, Intermix, Theory, Monika Chiang. Rebecca Minkoff is another designer I love—she makes the best jackets and blazers!
What are your favorite brands of accessories?
There are so many. It's so easy and affordable to find great pieces almost anywhere now. Some of my personal faves are from Dannijo, Phillip Lim, Jennifer Meyer, lex and Ani and Ippolita.
My favorite thing on my desk is:
My little 'A' monogrammed white box. It was actually a gift from my friends at C. Wonder. It's the cutest little box and sits at the front of my desk.
The best part of my job is…Doing what I love.! I love all things hair, beauty and fashion. And I'm so lucky to be able to work with my brother and my husband. They are my best friends—we have so much fun together. I wouldn't change a thing about my job!
I never leave home without… My iPhone! I have a very unhealthy attachment to my phone. And a bit of obsession with our 100 Proof Treatment Oil. I usually add a little to my hair a few times a day for some added shine. And it smells great, so it's a nice little pick me up.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Sadly, French Fries. I try to eat healthy, but fries are my downfall.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Be willing to learn from your mistakes. It's really hard to take in negative feedback, but ultimately it helps us improve. I've learned to take the good with the bad and try to learn from everything and keep growing.
What are your beauty must-haves?
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on black eye liner, Happy Hour shampoo and conditioner, bright pink lipstick and NARS Angelika Blush.
What is your go-to lunch?
Sushi is always my first choice, otherwise I love a fresh homemade turkey sandwich.
My favorite gadgets for work and play:
I love my iPad, especially my new LOGITECH keyboard...it's amazing for traveling!
I read these web sites/blogs/newspapers/books daily:
I get very inspired by the fashion mags: Allure, Vogue, Elle, etc. I love design blogs like Cup Of Joe or Design Love Fest. I'm pretty addicted to social media as well...Twitter & especially Instagram!
If I wasn't doing this job, I would be…That's a tough one, I really truly love my job. But in an alternate universe, I'd be co-hosting with Kelly Ripa—love her!!
Can you share some advice for aspiring career girls?
Dream big! Don't hold back when it comes to something you have great passion for. Life is too short to do something that doesn't make you happy.