Meet Whitney Kilpatrick: Salon Owner, Hairstyle: The Talent Show Finalist, and Industry Educator

Some hairstylists build a career—Whitney Kilpatrick builds a movement. As the owner of Maven Hair, a finalist on Hairstyle: The Talent Show, and a leader of Alfaparf Milano Professional’s Thrive Business Seminars, Whitney has dedicated herself to elevating not just her own career but the entire industry.

From her early days as a high school cosmetology student to running a million-dollar salon, Whitney’s story is proof that hairstyling is more than a job—it’s a craft, a calling, and a limitless opportunity.

Q: What inspired you to become a hairstylist?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with beauty. YouTube was just starting to blow up when I was a teenager, and I fell deep into smokey-eye and braiding tutorials. My Barbies and my little sister were my first “clients,” and when I played sports, I wasn’t the MVP—but I was definitely the locker room hairstylist.

Luckily, my high school had a cosmetology program, and by 15 years old, I had my permit to do hair. I was licensed and working in a salon by 17, which gave me a major head start. After four years of learning everything I could, I started to notice gaps in leadership and culture within the industry. So, I decided to be the solution and build the salon I always dreamed of.

In 2019, I launched my own salon suite, and today, Maven Hair is a team of 17, generating over $1 million in revenue in just our second year as a full brick-and-mortar salon. But more importantly, we’ve created a culture where stylists support stylists—a space that fosters growth, creativity, and longevity in the industry.

 

Q: What’s one piece of advice you wish you had when you first started?

I wish someone had told me that this career could give me the life of my dreams.

When I first started, hairstyling was supposed to be a “good job” to get me through college so I could find a “real career.” My family and society didn’t see it as a legitimate way to earn a great income or build a future. Because of that, I spent two years in college for a degree I never needed.

Now, I know better—this industry is limitless if you’re willing to invest in yourself.

 

Q: How has your approach to hair evolved over the years?

When I started in 2015, the salon world was all about speed and frequency—get as many clients in as possible, hitting those highlights right up to the scalp every 4-6 weeks.

Now, lived-in color is everything, and I love it. These customized, low-maintenance looks take more time, skill, and artistry, but they also allow clients to stretch appointments for months. This evolution has made hairstyling more about crafting long-lasting beauty, and I’m here for it.

 

Beyond the Chair: Whitney’s Life & Passions

Q: If you weren’t a hairstylist, what career would you have pursued?

I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart. From babysitting hustles to lemonade stands, I’ve always found ways to build something of my own. If I weren’t in hair, I’d still be running a business—maybe one that involves animals, since I’m obsessed with furry friends.

Q: What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?

I have a hidden talent for mimicking animal noises. My specialties? Cat meows and bird calls. Get a drink in me, and you might be lucky enough to hear them. 😆

Q: How do you like to spend your time when you’re not behind the chair?

I’m always building. When I’m not doing hair, I’m focused on growing my businesses and helping other beauty professionals create the careers they deserve. This industry has given me so much, and I’m passionate about paying it forward.

Q: What’s your go-to coffee order?

I’m a sucker for a London Fog. It’s my little moment of luxury in a cup.

 

The Hair & Beauty Secrets You Need to Know

Q: What’s your must-have Alfaparf Milano product and why?

I cannot live without Cristalli di Seta—it’s the perfect lightweight oil that nourishes without weighing down fine hair.

Q: Which Semi Di Lino line do you find yourself reaching for the most?

The Thickening Line, hands down. It adds so much volume and body without drying the hair out, which is a game-changer for fine-haired clients.

Q: What’s your favorite hair trend right now?

I’m obsessed with the Pantone Color of the Year: Mocha Mousse. I’m loving the dimensional brunettes with a soft, diffused bronde face frame—it’s sophisticated, effortless, and so flattering.

 

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you can give to hairstylists looking to grow their clientele?

Never stop learning.

Beauty school barely scratches the surface of what you need to know. Continuing education, personal development, and business training will always be a worthwhile investment.

Your growth as a stylist isn’t just about skill—it’s about mindset, branding, and knowing your worth. Find mentors, attend workshops, and keep pushing yourself to evolve.

 

Whitney’s Impact on the Beauty Industry

Whitney Kilpatrick isn’t just making waves—she’s changing the game.

From her early start at 15 years old to building a seven-figure salon, competing on Hairstyle: The Talent Show, and leading Alfaparf Milano Professional’s Thrive Business Seminars, she has proven that hairstyling is more than a job—it’s a career with limitless potential.

With a passion for education, leadership, and innovation, Whitney is helping hairstylists thrive, one stylist at a time.

 

Want to learn from Whitney? Keep up with her latest projects, salon insights, and Thrive Business Seminars—because when hairstylists support hairstylists, everyone wins.