Meet Steve Hightower | Hairdresser & Salon Owner

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

Hi Steve, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I wanted to be able to express myself and help other people feel better about themselves. I majored in art with a minor in drama with a focus on sculpture, painting and costume design , including wig work, brought me to hair.

When cutting and styling, I look at a person’s face shape , body type and lifestyle to bring out their best features.
When doing hair color work, I look at their skin tones and eye color. I also respect the integrity of their hair and use products and techniques that improve hair health.

The correct hair cut, style, and color can truly change a person’s self image, and increase their confidence.

One of the best experiences as a hairdresser is when a client looks at you with tears in their eyes, saying ” I never thought I could look this good!”

In my thirty three year career, part on success is being true to myself and being honest with my clients. Telling them no when I know it will not work for them, or saying” yes, let’s go for it. I think it will look wonderful.”

My true love is when a client tells me to do whatever I want to do , whether it is drastic cuts, added extension, or fashion or classic colors.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The thing that sets me apart from most hair artists is that I specialize in fine and thinning hair, and I work with cancer patients hair issues. I make sure their hair piece/wig looks real and works for them.

I am proud that my salon survived the pandemic! I am also proud that I have been one of Atlanta’s top stylist for over 20 years and one of the country’s top 200 stylists.

I am a firm believer in continuing education. I go to hair shows yearly, and work as a educator when not in the salon.
Staying current is so important. So many seasoned stylist think they don’t need education because of their years behind the chair.
Wrong!!

My career journey was not easy. I have put a lot of work in to get where I am now. I would tell young stylists to save money for the lean times.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Lips Dinner and Drag restaurant. One of Atlanta’s leading restaurant for social events and birthday celebrations, where the food is served with drag queen attitude.

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 have been supported and mentored by several influential people in the beauty industry.

I interned with Stan Milton, one of Atlanta’s top stylists in the 90’s.

I have worked with leading stylists, celebrities, and high fashion models, including New York Fashion Week.

I worked with Vivienne Mackinder on the Artistic Design Team at Intercoiffure Atelier for several years.

Lydia Sarfati, founder of Repechage skincare, has been a business advisor to me for over twenty years with a focus on service development and spa business advice.

Website: https://www.stevehightower.com

Instagram: @stevehightowerhair

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SteveHightowerHair

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/steve-hightower-hair-salon-and-day-spa-atlanta

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCThW8p44rM_BehLiQPNPjzw

Image Credits
Judy Host Kim Evans