A few days ago, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Shelby, the owner of Modern Valley - Hair Company. As we settled into our conversation, her warmth and passion for her craft immediately drew me in. Shelby’s story isn’t just about starting a business—it’s about honoring her roots, creating opportunities, and building something truly meaningful for her community.
A Name with Heart
When I asked Shelby about the name Modern Valley, her eyes lit up. She explained how “modern” reflects her deep love for hair and beauty—a vibrant, ever-evolving industry. But it was “Valley” that carried a more profound weight. It was her great grandfather’s name, a barber whose craft inspired Shelby long before she realized it herself. Combining the two words wasn’t just about branding; it was about merging the past and the present, honoring where she came from while forging a path forward.
Hearing that gave me chills. It’s not often you meet someone who weaves legacy and innovation so seamlessly.
TOO BOOK A HAIR CONSULTATION VISIT: https://modernvalleyhairco.com/book
The Leap of Faith
Shelby shared that her journey to opening Modern Valley was years in the making. After working for years in the beauty industry, she felt the pull to create something of her own. But taking that step wasn’t easy. She recalled countless conversations with her closest circle of support—family, friends, and mentors—who gave her the confidence to move forward.
Finally, in early 2024, she decided it was time. She described the leap not as a solo act, but as a team effort built on trust. “The people you surround yourself with matter so much,” she said. “You want to make sure they have your best interests at heart, so you can do the same for them.”
I couldn’t agree more. As a business owner myself, I know how crucial it is to have the right people by your side. It’s not just about skills; it’s about trust, alignment, and shared vision.
Building Something Bigger
Since opening her doors in July 2024, Modern Valley has already become a cornerstone of the community. Located at 1104 7th Avenue in Marion, Iowa, the salon is a spacious 3,000 square feet. What’s more impressive? Shelby has filled over half the space in just six months.
But this isn’t just a salon. It’s a platform. Shelby has created a haven for talented stylists and artists, not just from Cedar Rapids and Marion, but even as far as Arkansas. She’s empowering others to grow while also hosting educational classes that inspire and uplift industry professionals.
A Vision for the Future
As we talked, Shelby’s vision for the future became crystal clear. She wants Modern Valley to remain a vibrant part of the community—a space where stylists, clients, and educators come together. Her plans include hosting more events, offering more classes, and creating content that spreads her message far and wide.
Her excitement was infectious. “It’s about building something meaningful,” she said. “And making sure everyone who steps into this space feels that they’re part of something bigger.”
More Than a Salon
Walking away from our conversation, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. Modern Valley isn’t just a salon—it’s a movement. It’s a space built on love, community, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to grow and succeed.
So, whether you’re a stylist looking for a space to thrive, an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, or someone who simply loves to support local businesses, I encourage you to visit Modern Valley. Shelby’s story reminds us all to dream big, support those around us, and never stop growing.
Modern Valley is more than a business—it’s a legacy. And it’s a legacy we can all learn from.
For more information on Modern Valley, follow their business accounts on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernvalleyhairco
Website: https://modernvalleyhairco.com/
Want your business featured? Contact Jacob at jacob@midwestmarketingservices.com
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