Image by Kizzie Warren

The Pepper Place community is full of successful and creative entrepreneurs. Beth Doyle, owner and founder of The Collective, is a prime example. We recently sat down with Beth to learn more about her life as a stylist and a successful business owner! We’re sharing the entire Q&A below.

1. How did you get started in this industry?

  • I attended a local cosmetology school.
2. Can you share the story that led you to where you are today?
  • I actually attended The University of Montevallo and received a degree in elementary education. After graduating, I went on to teach for 5 years. I was one of those people that always wanted to do hair. I loved fashion and was constantly trying new things with my hair. I also did my friends’ hair in the dorm at UM. I knew pretty early on that I wouldn’t teach forever and finally decided to make the jump to doing hair.

3. Describe a typical day in the life as a salon owner.

  • Every day in the salon is different. I still work behind the chair and get to work with clients. We are centered around education at The Collective, so I get to be very hands on with our associates (new stylists to the industry) and provide them with coaching opportunities.

4. What is your favorite part of being a business owner? 

  • I love seeing our associates evolve and build their careers.
5. What challenges have you’ve faced? And how did they help you grow as an entrepreneur?
  • Out growing our original space was a challenge that taught me to be flexible and to rethink the way I had always worked within a salon. (Note: The Collective used to be located in Pepper Place below the Dr Pepper sign, Blueroot’s future home!). We were fortunate to be able to move to a larger space, but have maintained a shifting work schedule. It’s great because it gives the stylists flexibility and allows for optimization of the space.
6. Why did you choose Pepper Place as the location for The Collective? What do you love most about being located here at Pepper Place?
  • It’s a funny story. It’s actually serendipitous. I was interested in opening a salon and was connected with the owner of Click Salon. They were actually looking to sell their business. The moment I walked into the space I knew it felt like home. The rest is history. I love the community here at Pepper Place. We have the most awesome mix of tenants. There is a very creative vibe here.

7. Any future plans or goals? 

  • Right now our main goal is to get over the COVID hump and return to the days of fun and festivities around The Place.