Interview with Cindy Hillegass, salon owner, master stylist and color specialist
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: My parents were entrepreneurs and owned a nursing home and a beauty salon. I loved to take my mom’s hair down and brush her hair out for her next appointment at the beauty salon. By the age of 13, I was cutting my family’s and friends’ hair. This inspired me to be a cosmetologist and a business owner. I decided to pursue my cosmetology degree after high school and received my license in 1983. I opened and managed my first salon in 1991 and now have 15 years’ experience as a salon owner and 23 years’ as an independent contractor.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We are destination salon operating by appointment only. We are located in a beautiful historic 1926 building formally known as the Williams House, now the Fireweed Office Center, next door to the old Evergreen Conference Center. Operating by appointment only allows us the give our clients the time they deserve and provide a relaxed environment without outside disturbance or surprises. We offer an easy-to-use online booking website. Our salon associates are also available by phone to schedule appointments and provide consultations. When I started working on the idea of a salon and boutique in Evergreen, my main focus was creating a stress-free environment and offering healthy products. We offer several lines of organic, vegan and gluten-free products. Our 325-square-foot Bear Creek conference/special events room can be rented on an hourly or daily basis. This space includes a kitchenette, bathrooms with showers, a wraparound deck and mountain views overlooking Bear Creek.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Spending time with my clients and making them smile, being independent and being able to provide for my family. My salon associates, Kristin Kucma, Joanna Ozonek and Regina Quarles, are talented, amazing and beautiful, inside and out. I truly love managing my business and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: My biggest challenge is being able to walk away from my work at a specific time. I work on clients four days a week, usually nine to 12 hours a day. When I’m not behind the chair, I’m behind the desk working on social media, planning events, designing marketing materials and bookkeeping. Staffing, t00, can be a challenge in a small town.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: This is my fourth successful salon. I am also the landlord of our building. Also, I have celiac disease and am allergic to wheat, barley and rye. This was the factor in my decision to offer gluten-free hair and skin-care products.
Profile
Business: Bear Essence Salon and Boutique
Address: 27614 Fireweed Drive, Suite 106, Evergreen
Hours: Monday through Saturday (see online calendar at for hours)
Founded: 2014
Contact: 720-449-2327;
Employees: 3
