Conversations with Tara Striet

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Striet.

Hi Tara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Growing up I always loved all things hair, makeup and fashion. I loved hanging out with my aunt who was a stylist, and ended up making best friends with my nail tech in high school and working in her salon cleaning tanning beds. After a while of me just watching the hair stylist there, she said “when are you going to go to school for this?” So I did. Right after beauty school I met my husband, and moved to Cincinnati. I’m originally from the Akron area (NE Ohio). I was an assistant for over a year and learned so much, what to do and what not to do… it was way across town though and there was a salon much closer that just opened that I really wanted to work in. I got the job and was there over 7 years as a commission stylist. I was lucky enough to take some great classes and become a redken certified colorist. After having my son and major postpartum depression and anxiety,, I wanted more freedom and flexibility with my business so I went to another salon and did booth rental for 3 years. During that time, the Covid pandemic happened and I just realized that I was meant for more… something I always knew but it slapped me in the face one night in the shower! So I started thinking about what that might look like, touring spaces that might make for a good salon location and was coming up with nothing. Then, a good friend mentioned that the salon her aunt worked in was for sale. The owner was retiring and the other ladies didn’t want to have to move salons again. The location was perfect, the idea of only remodeling instead of doing a full build out was lovely, and there were already employees bringing in some money. It was a no brainer. Since then, we have turned it into Striet Style, a comfortable space to welcome all people and have a healthy work environment so everyone loves being there!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Well, just like the postpartum depression and anxiety I got after having my son, right after we got the salon I was crippled with anxiety that froze me for months. I was terrified to mess something up so I didn’t do anything at all… except what HAD to get done. But I pushed through (medicated), and have figured out anything I needed to, which in turn has built the confidence I needed to keep going and doing more and more! Being a “boss” isn’t a goal that I had. I just wanted to have a good team so for me that looks like being a good leader. I aspire to be the best, but I know I am human and fall short sometimes. I’ve also had some personal issues that may have taken more from me than I’d like to admit but I learn from every experience and strive to do better the next time. As with anything else, the hard conversations or letting someone go started out being very scary but necessary, so, with practice, I’ve gotten better at that too- Reminding everyone that love, support, and growth is the goal for all of us!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a hair stylist and salon owner. I do hair 4 days a week and business work in the between time!

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I’m a sucker for social media! It’s part of our job now and can be so fun. I loved listening to Mel Robins book- “the 5 second rule” and also “Let them.” I love a good wellness podcast- but I don’t skip a daily affirmation one- I’ve found Bob Baker who seems to hit the spot every time!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Strietstyle.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strietstyle/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrietStyle