Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Daly.
Hi Ashley, 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?
I started my career early on like most girls braiding and cutting their Barbie’s hair. Watching Dolly Parton in Steel Magnolias, and my Aunt Monique who has been a hairdresser since the 90’s. I’m actually a 4th generation hairdresser in my Norwegian roots.
My childhood best friend’s Dad owned 10+ locations of SuperCuts and I worked as a receptionist through high school and until I was 19! The girls I worked with were so cool and drove cool cars and had cool hair, and I was all about it!
I didn’t go to Paul Mitchel The School
Temecula (formerly know as The Cosmetology Institute) until I was 21! 1100 hours into my journey I ditched California and moved everything I owned in one car drove to Colorado. I finished out my cosmetology hours there with the support of my Aunt and Uncle. I quickly moved back to So Cal after I graduated to get my California license.
I had my heart set on working at a popular Paul Mitchell Focus Salon, where I worked for 3 months and was fired as an assistant. I still laugh about this because I actually had the courage to apply again as a stylist and went back 6 months later I ended up being a Top Senior stylist for 5+ years
. So many opportunities came from working here, I assisted with Red carpet hair, I’ve been on stage multiple times, Ive taught classes, worked on music video sets, editorial photoshoots, I’ve done it all. It wasn’t until I was educated and surrounded by the business side of the this industry that I wanted to do my own thing. Leaving my big salon was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but I’m so grateful I did. February 2026 marked 10 years as a business owner.
Creating my own brand and suite experience has been such a gift I never take it for granted. And I’m
so grateful for everyone who has supported and encouraged me to get this far.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Smooth? Exact opposite actually. . I went through a ton of hardships with my family during my time in beauty school. I actually think my trauma response was to put blinders on and become successful
behind the chair. I drowned myself in all things hair for a solid decade.
I’m sure this statistic is different now, but 21 years ago, they told us that only 20% of beauty professionals get into the 6 figure category. And 80% stay between 25-35k.
I made a promise to myself and I carried a post it note in my wallet for years that I was committing to being the 20%.
I don’t know how I got here, but I’m pretty sure it’s because of pure spite and grit
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Blush & Blonde is a space for the girlies — where masks come off, tea is spilled, and honesty is served with a side of laughs. I strive to make women feel comfy, seen, and a little bit bad ass in my chair. Let’s skip the polished, scripted bs, and get real, raw, and maybe drop an F-bomb or two.
Blonding is my jam. I’m known for creating everything from lived-in, sunkissed blondes to full power blondes and flawless gray blending. But honestly, I love any color service; if it makes someone feel beautiful, I’m game!
I built this salon around that giddy childhood feeling of walking out with a fresh ‘do, a pep in my step, and the “salon smell” on my pillow the next day.
It’s literally the best feeling!
My goal is a memorable, accessible experience for the everyday girls girl — Every client gets treated like a new bestie
I genuinely care about. I have such an amazing flow of beautiful, inspiring women who sit in my chair on the regular. But I will always welcome more.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I get a lot of my inspiration from Social Media, and watching other small business owners around me.
I love watching other stylists complete a project, share techniques, share victories and also the harships of this industry.
I’m also a sucker for a motivational speaker/ life coach I love Gary Vee, Jay Shetty and Mel Robbin’s, podcasts to name a few..
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.blushandblondesalon.com
- Instagram: @blushandblondesalon
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/-64I5BwqGx
