Meet Cortney Joi | Licensed Hairstylist & Owner of Anthem Salon

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cortney Joi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cortney Joi, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
From the very moment of my birth, the gift of creativity in the form of music, hair, and art was woven into the fabric of my existence. It was an inherent choice bestowed upon me by fate, and the purpose it held resonated deeply within me at an early age. As a young girl, my memories are painted with a love for all things musical, and beautiful, a passion that led me on a unique journey.

Being a second-generation stylist and salon owner provided me with a front-row seat to the transformative power of beauty. Witnessing women being renewed, refreshed, lifted, and made beautiful was not merely a profession but a profound experience. It went beyond the physical transformations; I saw the restoration of their mental and emotional well-being. In that salon, they weren’t just clients; they were embraced by a community of women, uplifted and encouraged. Every day felt like a celebration, a joyous gathering of shared stories and experiences.

In those moments, it became clear to me that I held the ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives, one hairstyle and conversation at a time. The fusion of artistry and purpose became my guiding force, shaping my journey to contribute to the well-being of others through the transformative art of hairstyling.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a licensed stylist and proud owner of Anthem Salon nestled in the vibrant city of Detroit, my professional life is a dynamic mix of creativity and commitment. Day in and day out, I’m immersed in the intricate world of hair styling, where my expertise and passion converge to create unique experiences for each client who walks through the salon doors.

From executing precision haircuts to mastering the art of color transformations, my hands are constantly in motion, sculpting and crafting hairstyles that reflect both individuality and contemporary trends. The bustling energy of Detroit City only adds to the eclectic inspiration that fuels my work, allowing me to infuse a distinct flair into every hairstyle I create.

Yet, my role extends beyond the scissors and styling tools. Running Anthem Salon involves a delicate balance of managing a team, ensuring a seamless salon operation, and staying attuned to the ever-evolving trends in the beauty industry. I take pride in fostering an environment where not only hairstyles are crafted but where confidence is nurtured, and personal style is celebrated.

In this bustling hub of creativity and transformation, my days are a harmonious blend of artistic expression and professional dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the vibrant canvas of Detroit’s hair business. That’s our beautiful Anthem… many notes fitting perfectly together.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, my bestfriends and I grew up in the same neighborhood. Im certain we have seen all that Detroit has to offer. Therefore, I would go to the upper peninsula of Michigan. Pampering is a must on vacation so I would have spa treatments scheduled each day . Massages, pedicures, manicures, and facials.

All food would be served by a private chef. Fresh juices, smoothies, the best of everything! He/She would stay in the East wing of our Airbnb so that we can have supreme concierge. The days would be filled with time on the water.
The lakes in Michigan are spectacular. Pampering and spontaneity will be the mood. Shopping sounds good for the afternoon. Wed explore many towns looking to ind the cutest local shops

Late night talks about the past, and vision boards giving us a peek into the future. Yoga under the stars, followed by a flower bath filled with the most beautiful flowers native to Michigan. Ending with a great dinner. Wow, that sounds like a time well spent

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Undoubtedly, the impact of my mother, Debbie Jenkins, extends far beyond the realms of familial ties, as she has played an incomparable role not only in my life but also in the lives of many others. Beyond the title of a devoted mother, she has seamlessly donned the roles of a passionate teacher and a mentor within the dynamic landscape of the hair industry.

Her unwavering commitment serves as a beacon of inspiration, lighting the path of positive change, strength, and resilience. It is with genuine sincerity that I yearn for her to receive the recognition she truly deserves. She stands as a testament to the ideals of excellence, breaking barriers, and setting standards for what it means to be a black professional in the hair industry.

Her journey is not just a personal triumph but a collective victory for those who have been fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Through her tireless dedication, she has become a shining example of professionalism, talent, and grace. As a beacon in our community, she has not only paved the way for others but has also left an indelible mark on how black professionals should be represented in the ever-evolving landscape of the hair industry. I love you mom 💐💐

Website: Cortneyjoihhair.com

Instagram: @Cortneyjoihair