Meet Emily Nickels | Founder & Stylist

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

Hi Emily, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Success shifts with each season of business and life. Right now, as a new salon, it means building a talented team, staying organized, and establishing our brand both in the creative world and within our local community. At Blend, several independent businesses operate under one roof, so success looks different for every artist—and we celebrate that individuality. Being recognized by local clients and businesses is part of what success looks like for us today.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been anything but linear, and that’s what makes it meaningful. I’ve always carried a strong sense of drive and a deep love for the industry, but what truly sets me apart isn’t just talent—it’s my willingness to challenge myself every single day. That constant push forward is what led me to open Blend Salon & Suites. While I do believe I carry qualities that set me apart from the everyday stylist, many of those same attributes—like resilience, vision, and leadership—are shared by the incredible salon owners and educators I look up to.

One of the best pieces of advice I received from a mentor before opening the salon was this: “You’ll never feel less intelligent, and that’s okay.” As a salon owner, you wear a million hats—electrician, accountant, plumber, cleaning lady, inventory manager—and the truth is, those are actual careers for a reason. You’re not expected to master every role, and learning to ask for help and delegate has been one of my biggest lessons.

I want the world to know that Blend was built with intention. It’s not just a salon—it’s a space where independent artists thrive together. I believe in creating a culture that values both individuality and community. My story is still unfolding, but it’s rooted in hard work, passion, and the belief that we rise by lifting others.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to the local group of salon owners I recently connected with. Even after just one meeting, I felt the strength of community and the power of shared experience. It reminded me that community over competition isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s a choice we make daily. Surrounding myself with like-minded people, both in and out of the salon, keeps me grounded and inspired. I also have a soft spot for a good self-help book—there’s a reason successful people often share similar habits and mindsets, and I love learning from those patterns to keep growing.

Website: https://Www.blendsalonandsuites.com

Instagram: blendsalonandsuites

Facebook: Blend Salon and Suites

Image Credits
@oliviapaigephotog